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Services > Pediatric Dentistry
How important is your child's first dental visit?
The foundation and importance of good oral health begins at a very young age. Introducing your child to their first oral cleaning and exam is a very important phase; this includes eliminating fear, special gentle care and early hygiene education.
What is topical fluoride treatment?
To help prevent tooth decay and strengthen teeth, we make sure our patients receive optimum fluoride exposure.
Small amounts of Fluoride can be found in natural water sources and foods, such as meat, fish and eggs. Many toothpastes, rinses and professional treatments contain fluoride. Prescription fluoride tablets are available for children who do not get fluoride in their water.
Why are sealants important for children?
Children often have grooves of the chewing surfaces that are too small to brush clean which provides a hiding place for plaque and bacteria. By sealing these grooves, the risk of decay is greatly reduced. Neglect dental care is expensive but sealant prevention pays.
Why do I have to worry about tooth decay through baby bottles?
Decay occurs when sweetened liquids are given and are left clinging to an infant's teeth for long periods. Many sweet liquids cause problems, including milk, formula and fruit juice. Bacteria in the mouth use these sugars as food. They then produce acids that attack the teeth. Each time your child drinks these liquids, acids attack for 20 minutes or longer. After many attacks, the teeth can decay.
It's not just what you put in your child's bottle that causes decay, but how often - and for how long a time. Giving your child a bottle of sweetened liquid many times a day isn't a good idea. Allowing your child to fall asleep with a bottle during naps or at night can also harm the child's teeth.
How can I prevent tooth decay through baby bottles?
- After each feeding, wipe the baby's gums with a clean gauze pad. Begin brushing your child's teeth when the first tooth erupts. Clean and massage gums in areas that remain toothless, and begin flossing when all the baby teeth have erupted, usually by age 2 or 2½.
- Never allow your child to fall asleep with a bottle containing milk, formula, fruit juice or sweetened liquids.
- If your child needs a comforter between regular feedings, at night, or during naps, give the child a clean pacifier recommended by your dentist or physician. Never give your child a pacifier dipped in any sweet liquid.
- Avoid filling your child's bottle with liquids such as sugar water and soft drinks.
How can oral conscious sedation and nitrous oxide (Laughing Gas) help with my child's office visit?
Often the use of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) helps anxious children to relax so treatment can be preformed comfortably and gently. Oral sedation with a mild sedative may be used if nitrous oxide will not provide adequate sedation, but where general anesthesia is not required.
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