The most common questions parents ask us........
At what age should I bring my child in for a check up?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) as well as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), both recommends initial dental visits for children when the first tooth appears and no later than 1 year of age.
What will you do for my child at his/her first check up?
The Doctor will examine your child's mouth, check for cavities and any potential problems with the teeth and gums. The doctor will also determine if your child is at risk for cavities and discuss preventive measures if your child is cavity prone. We will also teach parents how to care for the child's teeth through oral hygiene instruction and diet counseling.
Won't the baby teeth all fall out anyway? Why are they important?
Studies have shown that about 1/3 of preschoolers and almost 70% of children in grades K-3 have tooth decay. Baby molars on average, are not replaced till age 12. Early tooth loss caused by dental decay can result in difficulty chewing, failure to thrive, impaired speech development, and reduced self esteem. Neglect of the baby teeth can result in severe pain and serious infection of the gums and jaws which can in turn seriously affect a child's general health, as well as damage their developing permanent teeth. Infants as young as 6 months old experience tooth decay. Since most dental problems are preventable, it is important for parents to get an early start on an effective prevention program for their child.
How do I brush and floss my uncooperative child?
Most children between the ages of 1-3 will show some resistance to brushing and flossing. First, know that this is normal behavior! Second, know that your child will get used to it in time and will eventually allow you to brush and floss. Consistency is the key. Get in the habit of brushing every morning and every evening before bedtime. Try to make it fun. Be creative, make it a game! Have your child watch you brush. A child will often want to mimic the parent. For resistant children, it may be helpful to have the child lay down on a flat surface such as a bed or the floor. One parent can hold the child's arms and the other parent can support the child's head while brushing. Always use a soft toothbrush and avoid fluoride toothpaste until a child learns to spit out correctly. Keep in mind that even if your child is extremely combative, you are doing what is best for them and helping to prevent dental problems down the road.
How often should I bring my child in for check ups and cleanings?
For most children, we recommend every six months.....just like adults! Some of our patients come in more frequently (every 3 months) for cleanings and check ups. These may be children who are more cavity prone, have braces, or have a tendency to build up tartar more quickly.
When should my child get braces?
Every child is unique. There is no standard age for when orthodontics should begin. Some children start orthodontia as early as age 4 and some in their late teens. Teeth can be misaligned for two reasons: due to the simple misalignment of the teeth, or from inadequate/abnormal jaw growth which leads to improper jaw relationships. If the misalignment is due to a jaw growth problem, it is beneficial to have the child see an orthodontist for early treatment, as more can be done to guide the growth of the jaws and facial bones at an early age. For more simple cases, orthodontics can begin when all of the permanent teeth are in, generally by age 12. Most orthodontists recommend an initial consultation by age 7. The Doctors will do an orthodontic evaluation at each six month check up and inform you when it is time for your child to see an orthodontist.
Why do you need to take x-rays?
X-ray films detect decay in between teeth that cannot be seen during a routine dental examination. X-rays are also used to detect abnormalities such as missing or extra teeth, permanent teeth erupting in poor angles which can damage adjacent teeth, infection, cysts, tumors, failed restorations and other pathological diseases.
How often do you take x-rays?
We do not take x-rays every six months or annually as a routine. Each child is different. X-ray films are recommended only when necessary to protect your child's dental health. Some children may be more cavity prone than others, requiring more frequent x-rays. Some children have spaces between their teeth in which x-rays may not be necessary.
What are sealants?
Sealants are protective resin coatings that are applied to the deep pits and grooves primarily on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where most decay occurs. Sealants are an effective way to prevent tooth decay! Even if your child brushes and flosses carefully, it is difficult, and sometimes impossible to clean the tiny grooves and pits on the teeth. Food and bacteria build up in these depressions making decay inevitable in some cases. The application of a sealant is quick and comfortable. Sealants can last for years if they are well maintained and cared for. We recommend children with sealants avoid chewing on sticky foods (toffee, caramel) as well as hard crunchy foods (ice cubes, corn nuts).
Why is my child's permanent tooth growing in but the baby tooth not falling out?
Baby teeth get loose and come out because the permanent teeth that usually grow in directly underneath them shrink the root of the baby tooth, thus making the baby tooth “rootless” so that it becomes loose enough to fall out. If the permanent tooth does not grow in directly underneath the baby tooth, the baby tooth will not get “pushed out”. This occurrence most commonly occurs on the lower front teeth (incisors) between the ages of 5-7 but can also occur in other teeth in the mouth as well. We often see permanent lower incisors growing in behind the lower baby incisors. For most kids, having a second row of teeth will be temporary as the baby tooth will gradually fall out on their own. As soon as the permanent tooth erupts, parents should encourage their child to wiggle their baby tooth back and forth and also in a twisting motion. Some kids are willing and excited about doing this and others will refuse completely.
If the baby tooth is not showing signs of loosening, we recommend that it be removed by a dentist so that the permanent tooth can grow into its proper position. We typically make this recommendation when the permanent incisor is at least half way erupted and the baby tooth is not getting more loose over time. Please note, that in these circumstances, removal of a baby tooth is generally a painless and quick procedure that most kids tolerate just fine! Most of our patients go home with a smile; excited about getting a visit from the tooth fairy.