What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a general dentist?
Pediatric dentists complete an additional two or three years of training specific to children’s dentistry. Pediatric dentists can treat patients at all early stages of life; from newborn babies to teenagers and those with special health needs.
When should I bring my child in for their first dental appointment?
It is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry that your child receives a dental exam when their teeth begin to grow in or by their first birthday, whichever comes first.
When will my child start getting teeth?
Your child’s teeth will begin to grow in at around 6 months of age. However, each child is different. Your child should be examined if you feel that their teeth are growing in at an abnormally slow rate.
What can I do to make my child’s appointment easier?
Tell your child about their appointment in advance. Let them know the dentist is harmless. The less you talk about the details of the appointment, the better your child’s experience will be. Keep in mind, our staff is well-trained in making your child comfortable during their appointment and procedure.
When should we begin using toothpaste and how much should we use?
Dentists recommend cleaning your child’s teeth as early as possible, beginning with a soft infant toothbrush or a wet cloth. Parents are encouraged to use a tiny smear of fluoridated toothpaste and implementing a twice daily brushing routine. For children between the ages of 3 and 6, dentists recommend using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Closely monitor your child when they are brushing their teeth, ensuring they spit and not swallow excess toothpaste while brushing.
What type of diet promotes healthy teeth?
Ensure your child is eating a balanced diet; consuming one serving of each food group each day. Limit the intake of sugars and starches, which may cause tooth decay.
How can I, as a parent, prevent tooth decay in my child’s mouth?
Routine dental cleanings are the best way to ensure optimized oral health in your child. At these appointments, the dentist can recommend a personalized oral hygiene routine.
How safe are dental x-rays?
Dental x-rays pose very little risk. Pediatric dentists are trained to mitigate and limit the amount of radiation children are exposed to.
Are baby teeth really that important to my child?
Primary teeth (a.k.a baby teeth) are important for many reasons; proper chewing capabilities, proper speech and breathing abilities. Baby teeth also lay the foundation for adult teeth.