Pediatric dentistry is the branch of dentistry that focuses on the oral health and development of children from infancy to adolescence. It involves preventive, restorative, and educational services to help children achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Pediatric dentists, like those at Brunswick Dental Studio, are specially trained and qualified to treat the unique needs and challenges of children, such as dental caries, dental trauma, malocclusion, and oral habits.
As a parent, you play a vital role in your child’s dental health. You can help your child develop good oral hygiene habits, prevent dental problems, and enjoy a positive dental experience. Here are some tips for parents on pediatric dentistry:
Tip 1: Start Early
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children visit a pediatric dentist by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth erupts. This early visit can help your child get familiar with the dental environment, establish a dental home, and receive preventive care and guidance. Early dental visits can also help detect and treat any dental issues before they become more serious and costly. Early dental visits can help lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. By starting early, you can prevent potential dental problems and ensure your child’s oral health is in good hands. If you’re looking for a skilled and experienced dentist in Milford MA, look no further.
Tip 2: Brush and Floss Daily
Brushing and flossing are the most effective ways to remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles from your child’s teeth and gums. Plaque can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath if left untreated. The AAPD recommends that parents brush their children’s teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste until they are able to brush on their own.
Flossing should start as soon as two teeth touch each other, usually around age two or three. You can use flossers, picks, or interdental brushes to help your child floss between their teeth.
Tip 3: Use Fluoride and Sealants
Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens the enamel of your child’s teeth and protects them from decay. Fluoride can be found in tap water, toothpaste, mouth rinses, and supplements. Your pediatric dentist can also apply fluoride varnish or gel to your child’s teeth during their regular check-ups. Fluoride should be used in moderation and under the supervision of a dentist, as too much fluoride can cause dental fluorosis, a condition that affects the appearance of the teeth.
Sealants are thin, plastic coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where most cavities occur. Sealants act as a barrier to prevent food and bacteria from getting into the grooves and pits of the teeth. Sealants can reduce the risk of decay by up to 80%. Sealants are usually applied to the permanent molars and premolars of children between the ages of six and 12, but they can also be applied to baby teeth or adult teeth if needed.
Tip 4: Limit Sugar and Snacks
Sugar is the main culprit of tooth decay, as it feeds the bacteria that produce acid and erode the enamel of the teeth. Sugar can be found in many foods and drinks, such as candy, cookies, cakes, soda, juice, sports drinks, and milk. The AAPD recommends that parents limit the amount and frequency of sugar intake for their children, and avoid giving them sugary foods and drinks before bedtime. Instead, they should offer healthy snacks, such as fruits, vegetables, cheese, yogurt, and nuts, and encourage them to drink water or milk.
Tip 5: Protect Their Teeth from Injuries
Dental injuries can happen at any time, especially during sports or play activities. Children can chip, crack, or knock out their teeth due to falls, collisions, or blows to the mouth. To prevent dental injuries, the AAPD advises that children wear a mouthguard when participating in any sport or activity that involves contact or potential impact to the face. A mouthguard is a custom-made or ready-made device that fits over the teeth and cushions them from trauma. A mouthguard can also protect the lips, cheeks, tongue, and jaw from injury. Should your child have a dental emergency you can visit Glenwood Dental Care Emergency Dental and they will see them for same day treatment.
If your child suffers a dental injury, you should contact your pediatric dentist as soon as possible. Depending on the type and severity of the injury, your dentist may be able to save the tooth or repair the damage. Some common dental emergencies and their treatments are:
- Toothache: Rinse the mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the cheek. Give your child acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain relief, but avoid aspirin or topical painkillers. Do not put anything hot or cold on the tooth or try to remove any foreign objects with sharp or pointed instruments. See your dentist as soon as possible.
- Chipped or broken tooth: Rinse the mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the cheek. Save any broken pieces of the tooth and bring them to your dentist. If the tooth is bleeding, apply a piece of gauze to the area until the bleeding stops. See your dentist as soon as possible.
- Knocked-out tooth: Rinse the tooth gently with water, but do not scrub or touch the root. If possible, try to reinsert the tooth into the socket and hold it in place with a clean cloth or gauze. If you cannot reinsert the tooth, place it in a container of milk or water with a pinch of salt. See your dentist within an hour.
- Bitten lip or tongue: Clean the area with a cloth and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If the bleeding is severe or does not stop, go to the emergency room or call your dentist.
Tip 6: Make Dental Visits Fun and Rewarding
Going to the dentist can be a scary or stressful experience for some children, especially if they have had a bad dental experience in the past or if they have dental anxiety or phobia. To help your child overcome their fear and enjoy their dental visits, you can:
- Choose a pediatric dentist who is friendly, patient, and experienced in treating children. A pediatric dentist can create a comfortable and fun atmosphere for your child, use child-friendly language and techniques, and provide positive reinforcement and incentives.
- Prepare your child for their dental visit by reading books, watching videos, or playing games that explain what to expect and why dental care is important. You can also role-play with your child and pretend to be the dentist and the patient, using a toothbrush and a mirror.
- Be supportive and encouraging of your child during their dental visit. You can hold their hand, talk to them, or distract them with stories or jokes. You can also praise them for their bravery and cooperation, and reward them with a sticker, a toy, or a healthy treat.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can help your child achieve bright smiles and healthy teeth for life. Remember, pediatric dentistry is not only about treating dental problems, but also about preventing them and promoting good oral habits. As a parent, you are your child’s first and best teacher, and your child’s dental health depends largely on you. So, make sure to take good care of your child’s teeth and gums, and visit your pediatric dentist regularly. Your child will thank you later. blush