How often should I have my heat pump serviced?

You should have your heat pump serviced at least once a year. If you use your heat pump for heating and cooling, you should service it twice annually, in the fall and the spring.

What is the life span of a heat pump?

The average life span of a heat pump is 10-15 years. Because heat pumps run year-round to heat and cool your home, they don’t always last as long as a typical heating or cooling system. However, you can extend the life span by ensuring that your unit is routinely maintained by an HVAC professional.

What are the Benefits of Fluoride Treatments for Children

Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral, has long been recognized for its significant role in promoting dental health. In addition to its presence in toothpaste and drinking water, fluoride treatments are a common preventive measure dentists recommend, particularly for children. These treatments offer a range of benefits that contribute to the long-term health and well-being of young smiles. Let’s delve into the remarkable advantages of fluoride treatments for children and why they are essential to pediatric dental care.

Understanding Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatments involve the application of a concentrated fluoride solution directly to the teeth. Typically administered as a gel, foam, or varnish, these treatments provide a high dose of fluoride that helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay.

The Benefits of Fluoride Treatments

Strengthening Tooth Enamel

One of the primary benefits of fluoride treatments is their ability to strengthen tooth enamel. Enamel is the outer layer of the tooth that protects against decay and damage. Regular exposure to fluoride helps remineralize weakened enamel, making it more resilient to acid attacks from bacteria and acids in the mouth.

Preventing Cavities

By strengthening tooth enamel, fluoride treatments effectively prevent the formation of cavities. Fluoride inhibits the growth of cavity-causing bacteria and promotes the remineralization of early-stage cavities, stopping decay before it progresses.

Reducing Tooth Sensitivity

Children may experience tooth sensitivity, especially when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages. Fluoride treatments can help alleviate sensitivity by strengthening enamel and reducing the transmission of sensations to the nerves inside the teeth.

Protecting Baby Teeth

Fluoride treatments are particularly beneficial for protecting the primary (baby) teeth, which are more susceptible to decay than permanent teeth. Since baby teeth play a crucial role in speech development, eating, and holding space for permanent teeth, preserving their health is essential for overall oral health and development.

Preventing the Need for More Invasive Treatments

Fluoride treatments can help children avoid more invasive dental procedures, such as fillings or crowns, by preventing cavities and strengthening enamel. This minimizes discomfort and anxiety for children and reduces the financial burden on families associated with dental treatments.

Promoting Long-Term Oral Health

Fluoride treatments provide lasting benefits that extend beyond childhood. Children who receive regular fluoride treatments are more likely to maintain good oral health habits into adulthood, reducing their risk of dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss later in life.

The Importance of Professional Supervision

While fluoride treatments offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to ensure they are administered under the supervision of a dental professional. Dentists can determine the appropriate fluoride concentration and frequency of treatments based on a child’s age, risk of cavities, and overall oral health status. Additionally, dentists can monitor the effects of fluoride treatments and make adjustments as needed to optimize their effectiveness.

Conclusion

Fluoride treatments are a valuable tool in preventing cavities and promoting optimal dental health for children. By strengthening tooth enamel, preventing decay, and reducing sensitivity, fluoride treatments contribute to the long-term well-being of young smiles. With regular professional supervision and adherence to recommended oral hygiene practices, children can enjoy the benefits of fluoride treatments and maintain healthy, beautiful smiles for years to come.

Meet the team

MEET DR. TEDI HOWELL

bio

Dr. Tedi was born in Great Falls, MT, and raised in Shelby. She attended Carroll College, where she received her BS in Biology. During her free time, she worked as a dental assistant for Dr. Kevin. It was here that she fell in love with pediatric dentistry! After her undergraduate education, she moved to Kirksville, MO, for a two-year Master’s in Biomedical Sciences program, where she completed cardiac research. After receiving her Master’s degree, Dr. Tedi moved to Phoenix, AZ, for dental school at the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health. Following dental school, Dr. Tedi provided ten years of dental care for adults and children in public health clinics throughout Missouri and Wisconsin. Always having a heart for children, Dr. Tedi decided to continue her education in a two-year pediatric residency program at Denver Health Hospital in Denver, CO. Dr. Tedi is so excited to move home to be closer to her family and to serve the Helena community as part of the Helena Pediatric Dentistry team once again!

MEET DR. KEVIN RENCHER

bio

Dr. Kevin Rencher grew up in southeastern Idaho. As the oldest of eight siblings, he has always been surrounded by children. He graduated from Brigham Young University in 1998 and then graduated from dental school at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry in 2002. During dental school, he served as the President of the American Student Dental Association. He also served on numerous legislative committees. He then went on to complete two additional years of specialty training in pediatric dentistry at Schneider’s Children’s Hospital in New York City. Dr. Rencher continues to receive numerous awards for his superior academic excellence and leadership. He has traveled throughout the country speaking to dental professionals. He routinely travels to Washington, D.C. to help influence children’s dental legislation. He continues to be a leader among the pediatric dental community. As an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and through his involvement with the American Dental Association and the Montana Dental Association, Dr. Rencher makes it a priority to stay current on the latest developments within the pediatric dental community. Dr. Rencher is happily married. He and his beautiful wife have two sons and a daughter. In his spare time, Dr. Rencher enjoys camping, traveling and playing with his family.

MEET DR. NATE STEVENSON

bio

Dr. Nate Stevenson grew up in North Ogden, a small town in Utah tucked into the Wasatch mountain range. He graduated from Utah State University in 1999 (Go Aggies!) where he served as Student Body Vice President. He then went dental school in Milwaukee, Wisconsin at Marquette University, where he served four years as president of the dental school. In school, one of his first patients was a frightened child who had severe decay. Winning his confidence was the moment Dr. Nate knew he wanted to dedicate his career to helping kids love going to the dentist. He then completed two years of additional training in pediatric dentistry at Schneider’s Children’s Hospital in New York City. Those were two amazing years that taught him that every child is different and wonderful. His education included advanced studies and specialized training in dentistry for children, special needs and medically compromised patients. He truly believes that showing children compassion will shape their future as an adult. Dr. Nate continues to stay active in dental education and advocacy through his different roles as a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and Western Society of Pediatric Dentistry (WSPD). He was awarded Diplomate status by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry shortly after finishing his formal training by successfully completing a series of voluntary examinations offered by the board of examiners. He is also a member of the Montana Dental Association (MDA) and Utah Dental Association (UDA). After 10 years in private practice in Salt Lake City, Dr. Nate and his wife decided to fulfill a childhood dream of his and move to Big Sky country. He and his wife have two boys and a daughter who now call Great Falls their home. When not at work, Dr. Nate can usually be found either with his family on the soccer fields, on the water or on the ski slopes. His hobby is finding new projects to do around the home that drive his wife nuts.

What To Expect

Discover The Great Falls Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Difference

Comprehensive Services

We offer a comprehensive range of orthodontic and pediatric dental services tailored to meet your child's unique needs. From routine checkups to specialized orthodontic care, we have you covered.

Gentle Checkups & Cleanings

Our friendly and experienced team goes the extra mile to ensure your child feels comfortable and relaxed during routine checkups and cleanings. We believe in making each visit a positive and educational experience.

Preventive Care

We take proactive measures to protect your child's precious smile. Our preventive care includes fluoride treatments and dental sealants, which effectively guard against tooth decay and ensure long-lasting dental health.

Diagnostic Precision

To provide the best possible care, we utilize advanced dental X-rays for precise and accurate diagnoses. This enables us to develop tailored treatment plans that address your child's needs.

Metal-Free Fillings

Our metal-free fillings effectively treat cavities and blend seamlessly with your child's natural teeth. This approach ensures a beautiful, natural appearance while maintaining optimal dental health.

Expert Care

Our experienced dental team excels in complex cases, offering extractions when needed. We prioritize patient comfort with options like nitrous oxide or anesthesia for anxious children. Your oral health is our top priority.

Comprehensive Services

We offer a comprehensive range of orthodontic and pediatric dental services tailored to meet your child's unique needs. From routine checkups to specialized orthodontic care, we have you covered.

Gentle Checkups & Cleanings

Preventive Care

Diagnostic Precision

To provide the best possible care, we utilize advanced dental X-rays for precise and accurate diagnoses. This enables us to develop tailored treatment plans that address your child's needs.

Metal-Free Fillings

Our metal-free fillings effectively treat cavities and blend seamlessly with your child's natural teeth. This approach ensures a beautiful, natural appearance while maintaining optimal dental health.

Expert Care

Learn more

In Our Clients Words.

Read our reviews

They have a great atmosphere for kids! They try to make things fun and easy to understand for the kids.

Debbie B.

Very wonderful staff and did awesome job with my 7 & 3 year Old's. I would highly recommend this place.

Dianna

The staff was very kind and courteous and they really enjoyed being with the doctor. The staff was honest with us and made the children very comfortable and not scared. It's a kid friendly office from the lobby all the way to the cleaning room.

Amy Truro

We highly recommend Dr. Rencher and Great Falls Pediatric Dentistry! Fabulous staff, fabulous facilities, and fabulous care! Our children look forward to going to the dentist!!!!!!

Elle S.

Read our reviews