Care Of Child's Teeth

About Fluoride

For decades, fluoride has been held in high regard by the dental community as an important mineral that is absorbed into and strengthens tooth enamel, and thereby helping to prevent decay of tooth structures. In nearly every U.S. community, public drinking supplies are supplemented with sodium fluoride because the practice is acknowledged as safe and effective in fighting cavities. Some

About Mouth Guards

If your child participates in most any sport, a mouth guard could be a lifesaver in terms of preserving teeth and, ultimately, a child’s countenance later in life. Anyone who participates in a sport that carries a significant risk of injury should wear a mouth protector, according to the American Dental Association. Sports like basketball, baseball, gymnastics, and volleyball all

Brushing

Brushing is the most effective method for removing harmful plaque from your child’s teeth and gums. Getting the debris off their teeth and gums in a timely manner prevents bacteria in the food they eat from turning into harmful, cavity-causing acids. Start cleaning your baby’s teeth at birth, using a soft infant toothbrush and water. Use a small piece of

Flossing

Flossing is a method for removing bacteria and other debris that cannot be reached by a toothbrush. It generally entails a very thin piece of synthetic cord inserted and moved up and down between the sides of two adjoining teeth. Floss removes plaque and debris that stick to teeth and gums. It also increases blood circulation in the gums. Many

Mouth Rinses

Mouth rinses can have therapeutic benefits; others are only cosmetic in nature. Some have both attributes. The Food and Drug Administration even classifies mouth rinses this way. In general, some therapeutic rinses with fluoride have been shown to actually fight cavities, plaque and gingivitis formation. On the other hand, cosmetic rinses merely treat breath odor, reduce bacteria and/or remove food

Overview and General Tips

Proper dental care begins at birth. There are many things you can do to help ensure that your child’s teeth and gums start and remain healthy. From proper oral hygiene habits (it’s never too early) to eating healthy foods, you can play an important part in laying the groundwork for your child’s oral health and overall appearance later in life.

Preventing Cavities

Saliva is your body’s best mechanism for fighting the destructive forces of acids formed by plaque. Saliva acts as a buffer and re-mineralizing agent. Sugarless gum is one way to stimulate the flow of saliva in your mouth in between brushings. The best way to prevent cavities, however, is to brush and floss your child’s teeth twice daily. (Use a

Sealants

Technology today has produced sealants, which 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. Sealants are particularly effective in children, and may help them from developing cavities

Semi Annual Check-ups

We recommend that you bring your baby to see me by his or her first birthday; this is generally when the first tooth comes in. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child’s smile now and in the future. It is especially important that children have semi-annual checkups. The reasons are simple: Changes are occurring in the child’s mouth

Techniques

Since everyone’s teeth are different, see us first before choosing a brushing technique. Here are some popular techniques that work:

Toothbrush Selection

Toothbrushes today come in about as many sizes and shapes as one can imagine. There are angled heads, raised bristles, oscillating tufts and handles that change colors with use. While makers of toothbrushes make a lot of claims, there isn’t any evidence that any one type of toothbrush design is better at removing plaque than another. The most important thing

What is Plaque?

Plaque is a film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums after eating foods that produce acids. These foods may include carbohydrates (starches and sugars), such as candy and cookies, and starchy foods such as bread, crackers, and cereal. Tooth decay leads to cavities and occurs when plaque remains on your teeth for an extended period of time,

Your Child’s First Dental Visit

Your child’s first visit to the dental office should be around his or her first birthday, but could be as early as you’d like (as soon as the first tooth erupts or even sooner). Many children get scared or express apprehension when they know they are going to the dentist for the first time. All the more reason to start