Pediatric Dentistry
The key to a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums begins at infancy. We're here to help you safeguard your child's smile.
You can protect your child from dental disease with daily brushing and flossing, regular dental visits and good nutrition. Children learn healthy habits from their parents and caregivers.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
What should I use to clean my baby’s teeth?
A toothbrush will remove bacterial plaque that can lead to decay. Any soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, preferably one designed specifically for infants, should be used at least once a day at bedtime.
When should I take my child to the dentist for the first check-up?
In order to prevent dental problems, your child should see a dentist when the first tooth appears, or no later than his/her first birthday.
Are baby teeth really that important to my child?
Primary teeth, or “baby” teeth, are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, but they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt.
Are thumb sucking and pacifier habits harmful for a child’s teeth?
Thumb and pacifier sucking habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long period of time. Most children stop these habits on their own, but if they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers past the age of three, a mouth appliance may be recommended by your dentist.
When should we begin using toothpaste, and how much should we use?
The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush or a cloth and water. As soon as the teeth erupt, start brushing twice daily using fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, child-size toothbrush. Use a “smear” of toothpaste to brush the teeth of a child under the age of 2 years of age. For the 2-5 year old, dispense a “pea-size” amount of toothpaste, and perform or assist with your child’s tooth brushing. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively on their own. Encourage your children to spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing.
What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants work by filling in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This measure blocks food particles that could otherwise get caught in the teeth, ultimately causing cavities in baby teeth. The application is fast and comfortable, and can effectively protect teeth for years.
How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride?
If your child is not getting enough fluoride internally through water (especially if the fluoride level is deficient, or if your child drinks bottled water without fluoride), then your pediatrician may prescribe fluoride supplements.
What should I do if my child falls and knocks out a permanent tooth?
The most important thing to do is to remain calm. Find the tooth, and be sure to hold it by the crown rather than the root. Try to reinsert it in the socket, and if that isn’t possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and take your child and the glass immediately to your dentist.
How safe are dental X-rays?
There is very little risk in dental X-rays. We are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which children are exposed and all of our offices at Ulery Dental & Orthodontics use advanced digital X-ray technology. Digital X-rays reduce patient radiation exposure by up to 90 percent compared to the already low exposure of traditional dental X-rays.