Pediatric Dental FAQs

Pediatric Dental

A toothache can be unbearable, particularly if it doesn’t subside. If you experience recurring pain, sensitivity, or swelling, you might require root canal therapy in North East, PA. Root canal treatment can salvage your tooth and ease pain. At North East Dental Arts, we provide gentle and efficient root canal treatments to restore your dental health.

When should my child have their first dental visit?

Your child must see the dentist by their first birthday or when they get their first tooth, whichever is sooner. Early visits prevent cavities, create good oral habits, and enable the dentist to examine for any possible problems. Beginning early also makes your child comfortable at the dentist, minimizing anxiety later on.

How frequently should my child go to the dentist?

Kids should visit the dentist every six months for a standard checkup and cleaning. Regular visits prevent tooth decay, detect issues early, and promote healthy development. If your child has a greater cavity risk, the dentist will suggest more frequent visits.

How can I prepare my child for their first dental visit?

You can speak positively about the dentist, read children’s books about visits to the dentist, and practice being the dentist at home. Steer clear of using vocabulary such as “pain” or “scary.” Having them bring their favorite toy or comfort item with them can also make them feel more comfortable. The idea is to have the experience be fun and stress-free.

Why are the baby teeth necessary if they will just fall out?

Baby teeth assist with chewing, developing speech, and helping permanent teeth grow in the correct place. It can lead to spacing problems and impact eating if they fall out too soon. Maintaining healthy baby teeth also keeps infections from damaging growing adult teeth.

How can I help prevent cavities in my child’s teeth?

Brush their teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
Restrict sugary drinks and snacks.
Encourage drinking water rather than juice or soda.
Go to the dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings.
Ask about dental sealants for additional cavity protection.

When should my child start using toothpaste?

As soon as the first tooth erupts, use a small smear of fluoride toothpaste (the size of a grain of rice). At three years of age, use a pea-sized amount. Ensure they spit it out after brushing and watch over them to avoid swallowing excessive toothpaste.

At what age should my child start flossing?

After your child gets two teeth that touch, they should begin to floss every day. Flossing takes out food and plaque in the areas where a toothbrush cannot go. Parents can help with flossing until the child is able to do it correctly on their own, about age 8-10.

At what age should my child begin flossing?

What are dental sealants, and does my child need them?

Sealants are thin coverings placed over the chewing surface of molars to stop tooth decay. Sealants are particularly useful for kids who are likely to develop cavities. Sealants last a few years and add a seal of protection from decay.

When will my child start losing baby teeth?

Most kids begin losing their baby teeth at the age of six, starting with the front teeth. The process goes on until the early teens, when the last molars are lost. It’s crucial to keep an eye on their dental growth and maintain good oral hygiene during this process.

Is thumb sucking or pacifier use bad for my child’s teeth?

Thumb sucking and pacifier use is common in infancy but must be discontinued by the age of three years to avoid dental issues. Excessive sucking can cause crooked teeth or a bad bite. If your child is having difficulty abstaining, consult with the dentist for advice.

What should I do if my child knocks out a tooth?

If it’s a baby tooth, don’t attempt to reinsert it. Call the dentist for guidance. If it’s a permanent tooth, rinse gently without brushing, put it in milk or saliva, and get to the dentist as soon as possible. Acting fast can save the tooth.

How do I know if my child needs braces?

Indications your child might need braces are uneven teeth, spaces, trouble chewing, or an uneven bite. The orthodontist or dentist can evaluate their dental development and suggest treatment if necessary. Early checks, when they are seven years old, can identify future alignment problems.

What should I do if my child is afraid of the dentist?

Talk about the visit in a positive way.
Do not discuss any personal anxieties about the dentist.
Select a pediatric dentist who is experienced in putting children at ease.
Think about taking them to a “happy visit” prior to a real appointment.
Have them bring a toy or listen to music when they visit.

How can I make brushing fun for my child?

Let them choose a colorful toothbrush and flavored toothpaste.
Play a two-minute brushing song or use a timer.
Utilize a sticker chart with little rewards for daily brushing.
Brush together as a family to provide a good example.
Watch videos or read books on brushing to make it fun.

At Grass Lake Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we are here to answer any further questions you have regarding your child’s oral health. Call us today to schedule an appointment and keep your child’s smile shining bright and healthy!

Pediatric Dental FAQs

Pediatric Dental

Areas We Serve

Our Services

Services

Contact

Hours of Operation