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.

The ABCs of Dental Sealants: A Parent’s Guide to Protecting Kids’ Teeth

As parents, we strive to give our children the best start in life, and that includes ensuring their oral health is top-notch. Dental care is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and one preventive measure that often flies under the radar is the application of dental sealants. In this guide, we’ll explore the ABCs of dental sealants and why they should be a vital part of your child’s oral health routine.

A is for Application: Understanding the Basics

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. These back teeth have deep pits and fissures where food particles and bacteria can easily accumulate, making them more susceptible to cavities. The application process is quick and painless. The dentist or dental hygienist will clean the tooth surface, apply a gel to roughen it slightly, and then paint on the sealant. A special curing light may be used to harden the sealant, creating a strong shield against decay.

B is for Benefits: Why Dental Sealants Matter

Prevention is Key: Dental sealants act as a barrier, preventing bacteria and food particles from settling into the crevices of molars and premolars. By blocking these entry points, sealants significantly reduce the risk of cavities.

Long-Lasting Protection: Sealants can last for several years with proper care. Regular dental check-ups will allow the dentist to monitor the condition of the sealants and reapply them if necessary.

Cost-Effective: When compared to the cost of treating cavities, applying dental sealants is a cost-effective preventive measure. Investing in sealants can save both money and potential discomfort associated with dental procedures.

C is for Candidates: Who Should Consider Dental Sealants?

Children and teenagers are the primary candidates for dental sealants. The application is typically recommended as soon as the permanent molars and premolars emerge, which is usually around the ages of 6 and 12. However, adults who are prone to cavities and have deep grooves in their teeth may also benefit from sealants.

D is for Durability: Making the Most of Sealant Longevity

To ensure the longevity of dental sealants, it’s essential to:

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: While sealants provide an added layer of protection, regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups remain crucial for overall oral health.

Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects: Habits like biting on ice or hard candies can compromise the integrity of sealants. Encourage your child to avoid such habits to maximize the lifespan of the sealants.

E is for Education: Empowering Parents with Knowledge

Understanding the importance of dental sealants empowers parents to make informed decisions about their child’s oral health. Regularly communicate with your child’s dentist, ask questions, and stay informed about the latest developments in dental care.

In conclusion, dental sealants are a valuable tool in the arsenal of preventive oral care. By taking the initiative to protect your child’s teeth with sealants, you’re not only investing in their immediate well-being but also setting the stage for a lifetime of good oral health habits. Remember the ABCs – Application, Benefits, Candidates, Durability, and Education – and make dental sealants a priority in your child’s oral health journey. Your proactive approach today can pave the way for a brighter, cavity-free smile tomorrow.

Meet the team

MEET DR. TEDI HOWELL

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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

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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

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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.

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