Pediatric Care
Do you treat children?
Yes! The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommend that your child has their first dental visit by age one. It is crucial that you take care of your child's teeth as soon as they begin to erupt. Regular visits to the dentist help ensure your child's teeth and developing mouth are healthy.
When should I brush my child's teeth?
Infants:
before teeth erupt, you should wipe the infant's gums with a soft cloth or infant toothbrush after breast feeding or at least once a day.
Toddlers:
when teeth begin to erupt, it is important for the parent to brush the child's teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day.
Adolescents:
help your child brush and floss their teeth until they are around age 7-8, where they have enough dexterity to effectively clean all tooth surfaces.
Teens:
help monitor your teen's oral hygiene and remind them to keep up on brushing and flossing twice a day.
What is "baby bottle decay" or early childhood caries?
Baby bottle decay occurs when infants are allowed a bottle filled with sugary substances such as milk, formula, or juice for extended periods of time, especially through the night. These sugary substances allow plaque to accumulate at higher rates. It is recommended to use a bottle only filled with water over night to help prevent cavities on new teeth. If you need to give your child a bottle with these sugary substances, limit the time the child is allowed to drink it and brush their teeth and/or gums immediately following.
Is it okay for my child to suck their thumb or use a pacifier?
The AAPD recommends that thumb sucking and pacifier use be discouraged as teeth are erupting, but definitely at age 3 at the latest. Excessive thum sucking can lead to orthodontic problems for the child's developing teeth.
Is it true that if I have cavities, I can spread the cavity causing bacteria to my infant?
Yes! Studies have shown that mouth bacteria that causes cavities can be transferred to infants, usually from their mother. Once bacteria can colonize in the mouth, the infant is more susceptible to caries.