Frequently Asked Questions
When should my child begin seeing a dentist?
Your child should begin visiting a pediatric dentist around 12 months of age. Early examination and preventative care will help protect your child's smile for years to come.
When should I begin brushing my baby's teeth?
Brushing may begin with a soft-bristled brush as soon as the first baby teeth erupt. However, do not use toothpaste because it contains too much fluoride.
What is the best toothpaste for my child?
Tooth brushing is one of the most important tasks for good oral health. When looking for toothpaste for your child, make sure to choose one that is recommended by the American Dental Association.
Why are baby teeth so important?
Primary teeth, or baby teeth, are important for proper chewing and eating, providing space for the permanent teeth and guiding them into the correct position, and permitting normal development of the jaw bones and muscles.
What is the proper way to brush my child's teeth?
When teaching children to brush, place the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle; start along the gum line with a soft bristled brush in a gentle, circular motion. Brush the outer surfaces of each tooth; repeat the same method on the inside and chewing surfaces of all teeth. Finish by brushing the tongue to help freshen breath and remove bacteria.
What should I do if my child grinds his teeth at night?
The majority of cases of pediatric bruxism (grinding) do not require any treatment. If it is excessive, a mouth guard may be used while sleeping. The good news is that most children outgrow this habit.
How does a pediatric dentist help with dental anxiety?
Pediatric dentists have special training in helping anxious children feel secure during dental treatment. Pediatric dental offices are designed for especially for children as a means of easing them into the environment.
Should I worry about thumb or finger sucking?
Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants. It provides them with a sense of security. Most children stop between the ages of two and four. If you child does not stop by this age, try to discourage them from doing it. Prolonged thumb sucking can create crooked teeth or bite problems.
Dental Emergencies
Knocked Out Permanent Teeth
Handle the tooth by the crown (the part of the tooth that chews food). Be careful not to touch of handle the root of the tooth. Rinse the root gently in saline, milk, or water, and slowly try to reinsert it into your child's mouth. If this is not possible, or you are not sure if it is an adult tooth, immerse the tooth in saline, milk or water and go immediately to your dentist. The amount of time that the tooth is out of the mouth is crucial in determining if it will survive.
Knocked Out Baby Teeth
As a rule, baby teeth should not be placed back in the mouth. Call your dentist immediately for further instructions.
Broken Teeth
Rinse your child's mouth with warm water. Also, place ice on your child's face to prevent swelling. Take any pieces of the tooth immediately to the dentist.
Cut Lip, Cheek or Tongue
Place clean gauze to the cut area and apply firm pressure to stop the bleeding. If the bleeding continues, take your child to your local hospital's emergency room as soon as possible.