1. How early should I bring my child in for his/her first dental visit?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the first visit
should occur shortly after the first tooth appears. This first tooth is just the
beginning in a set of primary or baby teeth your child will have. Maintaining optimum
health for the first set of teeth is critical and serves to: aid in speech development
and proper chewing habits; promote better digestion and nutrition and help maintain
space until the permanent teeth are ready to emerge. Getting an early start in dental
care is the key to healthy teeth and establishing good oral health habits that will
remain with your child for a lifetime. The first visit is essential for evaluating
the soft tissues of the mouth, as well as examining the teeth for any early signs
of decay. The dentist can review the latest information and make recommendations
for pediatric care with regard to diet and fluoride, and how to avoid injuries or
trauma to the mouth.
2. What can I do to prevent cavities in my child's teeth?
There are several primary factors that aid in the prevention of tooth decay:
- implement at-home oral hygiene practices, which
include brushing with a fluoridated toothpaste twice a day and flossing once a day
- limit snacking on sugary foods and drinks and fermentable
carbohydrates such as crackers, chips and breads
- maintain regular dental check-ups have sealants
(protective coatings) placed on the teeth when advised
Additional steps that can be taken to prevent early
childhood tooth decay include:
- avoid allowing a bottle-fed baby to go to sleep with a bottle unless it contains
only water (milk pools around the teeth and creates an acid bath that weakens the
enamel)
- wipe the baby's gums and teeth with a damp washcloth following breast or bottle
feeding
- maintain meticulous oral hygiene and make regular dental visits to avoid
the transmission of bacteria that may be harmful.
3. How do I get my child to brush at bedtime?
The earlier you begin a daily routine for cleaning teeth the quicker this process
will become a natural part of your child's routine. Bedtime brushing should never
be a struggle or cause anger. This should be a fun and easy way to educate your
children about the importance of good oral hygiene. Children watch their parents
closely with everything they learn and brushing is no different. Set a good example
and model the behavior you wish to see in your children when it comes to daily oral
health. Often times, this can become a family routine performed together. Very small
children lack the dexterity to brush properly, and need your support early on. Once
they become more adept, introduce electric or unique toothbrushes that are fun and
encourage brushing. Floss holders, tongue cleaners and disclosing tablets educate
your child and enroll them in the process of being independent and responsible for
their oral health.
4. Do I need to give my child fluoride supplements?
There are many sources from which your child may be getting fluoride. These include
fruit juices, fluoridated water, fluoridated toothpaste and fluoride treatments
during their dental visits. Fluoride supplementation is not as common as it was
years ago, mainly due to the concern with over fluoridation. Supplementation should
be advised and supervised by both your pediatrician and your pediatric dentist.
All your options should be fully discussed and questions answered to make an informed
decision.
5. What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a general dentist?
Pediatric dentists are often considered the "pediatricians of dentistry." It is
the specialty in dentistry that focuses on the dental care and attention of infants
and small children through adolescence. This also includes children with special
needs. Pediatrics requires two to three years of specialized training following
a standard dental program. This prepares the pediatric dentist for the unique needs
and care many children often require. Making the initial exposure to the dentist
for a child can often be overwhelming. It is wise to be delicate in this process
to ensure your child has a positive and rewarding experience. Pediatric dentists
have the benefit of creating an office environment that is designed specifically
with children in mind. A pediatric dental office is colorful, fun and usually theme-oriented
around children's interests. These offices truly cater to children in a way that
provides them the best experience possible. |
