Finding someone to trust with your child’s oral health needs can be stressful and exhausting. The moment your infant starts to develop teeth, you need to begin thinking about their oral health care. Here at South Davis Pediatric Dentistry, we focus on helping parents find the right dentist, and helping kids learn how to care for their teeth and gums. So what makes one Pediatric dentist better from another one? Here are eight questions we can answer about your child’s oral health!
When Should I Clean My Infants Teeth?
Has your infant’s first tooth erupted from the surface of the gums? Teething is a great time, but also a stressful time as most parent’s are not aware of what they can do to help keep their children’s teeth clean. A soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infant’s teeth is all you need. Gently scrub around the new tooth twice a day to keep plaque at bay!
How Soon Should My Child Visit the Dentist for The First Check-Up?
The best way to prevent dental problems is to visit the dentist early and often! We recommend our patients bring in their infants and toddlers when their first tooth appears or before their first birthday.
Are Baby Teeth That Important?
We have several people ask us this question! Baby teeth are extremely important to your children’s oral health as they assist in chewing, speaking, and provide the path for permanent teeth. If a baby tooth is decayed, it could potentially infect the permanent tooth forming behind it.
My Child Has a Toothache, What Should I Do?
Call South Davis Pediatric Dentistry as soon as possible! Use a cold compress on the face if you notice swelling and provide the correct dosage of acetaminophen for pain.
Does Thumb Sucking Cause Problems?
If your child is a thumbsucker, or a pacifier user, you need to try and break them of this habit when their teeth start to form. General use of a pacifier is not always destructive, but it can become a problem if it goes on for a long period of time. If your child is past the age of two and continues to suck their thumb, bring them into the office for an oral evaluation.
How Can I Prevent Tooth Decay?
One of the worst mistakes parents make is feeding their infant a bottle at bed time and allowing them to sleep with it. Break this habit as milk contains carbohydrates, which increase the tooth decay process. Daily brushing will break up the bacteria in the mouth, greatly reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Should I Use Toothpaste?
Another common question we field at South Davis Pediatric Dentistry is helping parents use the right toothpaste. Use a soft toothbrush and water for the first year of your child’s life. Once your child is three, start using toothpaste that contains fluoride.
Do Dental Sealants Work?
Dental sealants help to reduce tooth decay by filling in the crevasses of the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Sealants are beneficial for back molars where children have a difficult time brushing.
For more information about your child’s oral health needs, contact our Bountiful Pediatric dental office today; 801-294-2880 or use the “Schedule your child’s dental appointment today!” form on this page. 🙂
Recent Comments