ENDODONTICS: COMING SOON
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
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 pediatric 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 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.
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 acetaminophen for any pain, rather than placing aspirin on the teeth or
gums. Finally, see a dentist as soon as possible.
Are thumbsucking 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 past the age of three, a mouth appliance may be recommended by your pediatric
dentist.
How can I prevent decay caused by nursing?
Avoid nursing children to sleep or putting anything other than water in their bed-time
bottle. Also, learn the proper way to brush and floss your child's teeth. Take your child to a pediatric
dentist regularly to have his/her teeth and gums checked. The first dental visit should be scheduled by your
child's first birthday.
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.
Toothpaste: when should we begin using it and how much should we use?
The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft
infant toothbrush or cloth and water. As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily using
fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, age-appropriate sized toothbrush. Use a "smear" of toothpaste to
brush the teeth of a child less than 2 years of age. For the 2-5 year old, dispense a "pea-size"
amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s toothbrushing. Remember that young children do not
have the ability to brush their teeth effectively.Children should spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste
after brushing.
How do I make my child's diet safe for his teeth?
Make sure your child has a balanced diet, including one serving each of: fruits and
vegetables, breads and cereals, milk and dairy products, and meat fish and eggs. Limiting the servings of sugars
and starches will also aid in protecting your child's teeth from decay. You can also ask your pediatric
dentist to help you select foods that protect your children's teeth.
How do dental sealants work?
Sealants work by filling in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This
shuts out food particles that could get caught in the teeth, causing cavities. The application is fast and
comfortable and can effectively protect teeth for many years.
How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride?
Have your pediatric dentist evaluate the fluoride level of your child's primary
source of drinking water. If your child is not getting enough fluoride internally through water (especially if
the fluoride level is deficient or if your child drinks bottled water without fluoride), then your pediatric
dentist may prescribe fluoride supplements.
What can I do to protect my child's teeth during sporting events?
Soft plastic mouthguards can be used to protect a child's teeth, lips, cheeks and
gums from sport related injuries. A custom-fitted mouthguard developed by a pediatric dentist will protect your
child from injuries to the teeth, face and even provide protection from severe injuries to the
head.
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 glass immediately to the pediatric dentist.
How safe are dental X-rays?
There is very little risk in dental X-rays. Pediatric dentists are especially careful
to limit the amount of radiation to which children are exposed. Lead aprons and high-speed film are used to
ensure safety and minimize the amount of radiation.
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.