Children’s Dentistry

How Baby Teeth Affect Permanent Teeth

The health of baby teeth directly impacts the health of permanent teeth. If baby teeth are lost prematurely due to decay or injury, the surrounding teeth may shift, leading to crowding and misalignment of permanent teeth. Later in life, this may require orthodontic treatment. [2] 

Common Dental Problems in Children 

Tooth decay, commonly known as cavities, is the most prevalent dental problem in children. [3]  It occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that erode tooth enamel. Other common issues include gum disease, which can affect both baby and adult teeth, and dental injuries caused by falls or accidents.   

Preventative Care

Tooth decay and children no longer have to go hand in hand. At our office we are most concerned with all aspects of preventive care. We use the latest in dental sealant technology to protect your child’s teeth. Dental sealants are space-age plastics that are bonded to the chewing surfaces of decay-prone back teeth. This is just one of the ways we will set the foundation for your child’s lifetime of good oral health.

Cavity prevention

Most of the time cavities are due to a diet high in sugary foods and a lack of brushing. Limiting sugar intake and brushing regularly, of course, can help. The longer it takes your child to chew their food and the longer the residue stays on their teeth, the greater the chances of getting cavities.

Every time someone eats, an acid reaction occurs inside their mouth as the bacteria digests the sugars. This reaction lasts approximately 20 minutes. During this time the acid environment can destroy the tooth structure, eventually leading to cavities.Consistency of a person’s saliva also makes a difference; thinner saliva breaks up and washes away food more quickly. When a person eats diets high in carbohydrates and sugars they tend to have thicker saliva, which in turn allows more of the acid-producing bacteria that can cause cavities.

Tips for Cavity Prevention

• Limit frequency of meals and snacks.
• Encourage brushing, flossing and rinsing.
• Watch what your child drinks.
• Avoid giving your child sticky foods.
• Make treats part of meals.
• Choose nutritious snacks.

Establishing a Good Oral Hygiene Routine

A consistent oral hygiene routine is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. It helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.  

When to Start Brushing and Flossing

As soon as the first tooth erupts: Gentle brushing with a soft cloth or infant toothbrush should begin.  

When more teeth come in: Introduce a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste. [4] 

Flossing: Can start when teeth begin to touch, usually around age two or three. [5] 

Choosing the Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Toothbrush: Opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits comfortably in your mouth. Replace it every three to four months.  

Toothpaste: Use a fluoride toothpaste approved by the American Dental Association (ADA). Children under three should use a pea-sized amount to prevent swallowing excess fluoride. [6]  

Tips for Effective Brushing and Flossing 

Brush twice a day for two minutes each time, covering all tooth surfaces.  [7] 

Angle the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards the gumline.  

Use gentle circular motions.  

Floss once a day to remove plaque and food particles between teeth. [8]

Rinse with mouthwash to kill bacteria. 

Why are Regular Dental Check-ups Important

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for maintaining optimal oral health. Dentists can detect and treat problems early on, preventing more serious issues. Recommended check-up intervals vary depending on individual needs but are typically every six months. 

Your child’s first visit

The first “regular” dental visit should be just after your child’s first birthday. The first dental visit is usually short and involves very little treatment. We may ask you to sit in the dental chair and hold your child during the examination. You may also be asked to wait in the reception area during part of the visit so that a relationship can be built between your child and your dentist.

We will gently examine your child’s teeth and gums. X-rays may be taken (to reveal decay and check on the progress of your child’s permanent teeth under the gums). We may clean your child’s teeth and apply topical fluoride to help protect the teeth against decay. We will make sure your child is receiving adequate fluoride at home. Most important of all, we will review with you how to clean and care for your child’s teeth.

What should I tell my child about the first dental visit?

We are asked this question many times. We suggest you prepare your child the same way you would before their first haircut or trip to the shoe store. Your child’s reaction to his first visit to the dentist may surprise you.

Here are some “First Visit” tips:

• Take your child for a “preview” of the office.
• Read books with them about going to the dentist.
• Review with them what the dentist will be doing at the time of the first visit.
• Speak positively about your own dental experiences.

During your first visit the dentist will:

• Examine your mouth, teeth and gums.
• Evaluate adverse habits like thumb sucking.
• Check to see if you need fluoride.
• Teach you about cleaning your teeth and gums.
• Suggest a schedule for regular dental visits.

Common Dental Procedures for Children

Many children will experience dental procedures during their growing years. These procedures are designed to protect their oral health and ensure a bright smile.  

Fillings 

Imagine a tiny hole in your tooth. A filling is like a special patch that fixes the hole and keeps the tooth strong. It’s like fixing a flat tire on your bike!

Sealants 

Sealants are like a protective coat for your teeth. They help prevent cavities by filling in the tiny grooves on the chewing surfaces of your teeth. It’s like putting on sunscreen for your teeth!  

Extractions

Sometimes, a tooth might be too damaged to be saved. An extraction means gently removing the tooth. It’s like losing a baby tooth, but sometimes it happens a little earlier.  

Remember, these procedures are often necessary to maintain your child’s oral health and prevent more serious problems in the future. Our goal is to help your child have a positive dental experience.

At Englewood Dental

We understand that dental procedures can be a bit scary for children. That’s why our team is specially trained to make the experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Comfort

We use special numbing medicine to make sure your child feels little to no pain during the procedure. We also offer techniques to help children relax, like watching a movie or listening to music.  

Safety

Your child’s safety is our top priority. We follow strict sterilization guidelines and use gentle equipment. We’ll explain every step of the procedure to you and your child, so you know what to expect.

Pain Management

Modern dental techniques and pain management options ensure minimal discomfort during and after procedures.

Post-Procedure Care

Clear instructions on post-procedure care will be provided to help your child recover comfortably.

We encourage you to schedule a check-up for your child as soon as their first tooth erupts. Our friendly and skilled dental team is committed to giving gentle, all-around care. We believe that kids should have a good experience at the dentist, one that is fun and rewarding for both the child and the parent.

You may also want to bring your child to your dental checkup when they are about two so that they can become familiar with the sights, sounds, and friendly helpers in our dental office. We call this a Happy Visit. 

Let us help your children learn the importance of optimal oral health from a young age. Call to schedule a Happy Visit or checkup today! In some cases, we refer children to pedodontists, which are specialists in children’s dentistry. We will help you make the best choices for your child’s unique and precious personality.