June 4, 2015
One of the words synonymous with dental offices is fluoride. Most people know that fluoride is considered by dentists to be helpful for teeth, but may […]
Children's Dental Health Information
FAQs
What should I use to clean my baby's teeth?
A toothbrush will remove plaque bacteria that can lead to tooth decay. Any soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, preferably one designed specifically for infants, should be used at least once a day at bedtime.
When should I take my child to the dentist for the first check-up?
In order to prevent dental problems, your child should see a dentist when the first tooth appears, or no later than his/her first birthday.
What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a family dentist?
Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. A pediatric dentist has two to three years of specialty training following dental school and limits his/her practice to treating children only. Pediatric dentists are primary and specialty oral care providers for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health needs.
Are baby teeth really that important to my child?
Primary, or “baby,” teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt.
Are thumb sucking and pacifier habits harmful for a child's teeth?
Thumb and pacifier sucking habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long period of time. Most children stop these habits on their own, but if they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers when the permanent teeth arrive, a mouth appliance or orthodontic referral may be recommended by your pediatric dentist.
What can I do to protect my child's teeth during sporting events?
Soft plastic mouth guards can be used to protect a child’s teeth, lips, cheeks, and gums from sport-related injuries. A mouth guard purchased in a sporting goods store will help prevent injuries to the teeth. Alternatively, a custom-fitted mouth guards developed by a dentist may protect your child from injuries to the teeth, face, and even provide protection from severe injuries to the head.
How often does my child need to see the pediatric dentist?
A check-up every six months is recommended in order prevent cavities and other dental problems. However, your pediatric dentist can tell you when and how often your child should visit based on their personal oral health.
What should I do If my child has a toothache?
First, rinse the irritated area with warm salt water and place a cold compress on the face if it is swollen. Give the child ibuprofen or acetaminophen for any pain according to the directions on the bottle, rather than placing aspirin on the teeth or gums. Finally, see a dentist as soon as possible.
How can I prevent decay caused by nursing?
Avoid nursing children to sleep or putting anything other than water in their bedtime bottle. Also, learn the proper way to brush and floss your child’s teeth. Take your child to a dentist regularly to have his/her teeth and gums checked. The first dental visit should be scheduled by your child’s first birthday.
Toothpaste: when should we begin using it and how much should we use?
Fluoridated toothpaste should be introduced when a child is 2-3 years of age. Prior to that, parents should clean the child’s teeth with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. When toothpaste is used after age 2-3, parents should supervise brushing and make sure the child uses no more than a pea-sized amount on the brush. Children should spit out excess toothpaste after brushing, not swallow it.
How do I make my child's diet safe for his teeth?
Many parents wonder if their children are getting enough fluoride to keep their teeth strong and healthy. Fluoride is important because it helps protect against cavities and strengthens developing teeth. Most children receive fluoride through their toothpaste and, in many areas, through the local water supply. During your visit, we will review your child’s individual risk for tooth decay and discuss whether additional fluoride treatments—such as varnish applications in the dental office—would be helpful. Our goal is to make sure your child receives just the right amount of fluoride for safe and effective protection.
How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride?
Many parents wonder if their children are getting enough fluoride to keep their teeth strong and healthy. Fluoride is important because it helps protect against cavities and strengthens developing teeth. Most children receive fluoride through their toothpaste and, in many areas, through the local water supply. During your visit, we will review your child’s individual risk for tooth decay and discuss whether additional fluoride treatments—such as varnish applications in the dental office—would be helpful. Our goal is to make sure your child receives just the right amount of fluoride for safe and effective protection.
What should I do if my child falls and knocks out a permanent tooth?
The most important thing to do is to remain calm. Then find the tooth. Hold it by the crown rather than the root and try to reinsert it in the socket. If that is not possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and take your child and the tooth immediately to the pediatric dentist.
How do I know if my child needs braces?
Pediatric dentists have in-depth knowledge of the growth and development of your child’s teeth, mouth and face. We can correct simple abnormalities in tooth and jaw position using:
›Removable orthodontic appliances
›Fixed orthodontic appliances
›Functional orthodontic appliances
Early diagnosis and proper treatment can pay dividends in improved dental health and in avoiding future dental problems. Your pediatric dentist will guide you on any early intervention treatment or a referral to an orthodontist at the appropriate time.
How can parents help prevent tooth decay?
Parents should take their children to the dentist regularly, beginning with the eruption of the first tooth. Then, the dentist can recommend a specific program of brushing, flossing, and other treatments for parents to supervise and teach to their children. These home treatments, when added to regular dental visits and a balanced diet, will help give your child a lifetime of healthy habits.
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