Of course, children’s dental problems do not necessarily end with cavities. Interestingly, good hygiene and habit formation from early childhood can prevent most of these problems.

In this article, find out the most common dental problems children suffer, as well as how to prevent them and treat them.

7 most common dental issues in children

There are many common dental issues in children. Here we tell you about the seven most common ones:

1. Dental cavities

The number one and most prevalent problem in children is tooth decay, also called cavities. Cavities are damaged areas in the teeth caused by the breakdown of the enamel and hard tissue of the tooth. Cavities happen when the mouth is exposed to acids produced by bacteria. These bacteria feed mainly on sugars and simple carbohydrates.

You can prevent cavities and the breakdown of children’s teeth. Three excellent ways to prevent tooth decay are the following:

• Improve dental hygiene: Creating habits of brushing teeth after main meals and supervising the correct brushing of teeth in your children improves their dental hygiene.
• Improve diet: Avoid giving kids too many sweets or highly processed foods. You can also help by adding foods with high nutritional value to their diet.
• Consult with your dentist regularly: Discovering cavities at an early stage is useful to avoid them becoming bigger.

Preventing cavities in children prevents them from having more serious problems. Some of the issues we avoid include pain, tooth loss, and painful visits to the dentist. Generally, going to the dentist for a cleaning or checkup is better than going to the dentist to cure large, painful cavities.

If your children have cavities, it is crucial to cure them to prevent them from growing and causing more damage.

2. Gum disease

Did you know not only adults could have gum disease? Gingivitis in children is quite common. It is characterized as a disease of the gums. In this disease, the plaque accumulates between the gum and the tooth, thus irritating the gum.

To discover if your child has gingivitis, you can observe if their gums have any of these signs:

• Constant pain in the gums (or sensitivity to temperatures when eating).
• Inflammation or swelling of the gums.
• Bleeding of the gums, especially when flossing or brushing teeth.

Gingivitis is the precursor to gum disease. In most cases, it is prevented by proper tooth and gum hygiene, including proper flossing. If this disease is not treated, children’s teeth may fall out, become weaker, or cause bone loss. You can prevent the disease through dietary changes and improved brushing techniques.

Gum disease is a treatable disease. As a parent, you can look for the help of a good dentist or periodontist.

3. Orthodontic problems

Orthodontic problems are a “growing trend” in children. Also called malocclusions, orthodontic problems can cause some aesthetic problems or even functional problems, such as:

• Overbite: Overbite means that the front teeth protrude more than the back teeth.
• Underbite: The lower teeth protrude from the upper teeth in an underbite. This could be caused by genetics or because of prolonged thumb-sucking.
• Open bite: When the mouth is closed, it is normal for all teeth to touch to facilitate chewing. In an open bite, teeth don’t touch.
• Spacing problems: Sometimes, there is too little or too much space between the teeth, causing problems with chewing or with the aesthetics and self-esteem of children.
• Crowding: Crowding happens when there is no space for the teeth, causing them to grow too close together and become crooked.

It is crucial to detect these problems early in order to correct them. Your orthodontist will determine if you need braces, expanders, headgear, or even jaw surgery—in severe cases. Unfortunately, orthodontics is not only an aesthetic problem but can also cause other problems in the long run, such as cracked teeth, difficulty brushing teeth, or jaw problems.

We recommend that you and your kid visit an orthodontist around the age of seven or eight when many permanent teeth have erupted.

4. Traumas

Another common problem in children is dental trauma. Dental trauma refers to injuries that affect the teeth, gums, jawbone, or mouth. Injuries can lead to chipped or knocked-out teeth. A variety of reasons can cause them:

• Accidents
• Falls
• Sport injuries
• Biting on hard objects

Whatever the case, if the injury is severe, the child requires immediate dental attention. To prevent some of these problems, children can wear mouthguards when playing some sports.

5. Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity may be caused by some of the other problems mentioned above. It refers to the discomfort and pain that children feel when drinking hot or cold foods and beverages. Even air currents entering the mouth can cause pain.

Some of the problems that can cause children’s teeth to feel sensitive include the following:

• Cavities
• New permanent teeth
• Bruxism or teeth-grinding
• Orthodontic treatment
• Gum disease
• A cracked or missing filling

It is important to detect and treat the cause with a pediatric dental specialist. If your child complains of tooth pain or sensitivity, the best thing to do is to take them to the dentist for a check-up.

6. Grinding

Grinding or bruxism is a habit that causes children to clench or grind their teeth. It is quite common in infants and toddlers, but children stop when their teeth develop.

If your child continues to grind his teeth after toddlerhood, there is a high risk that it will wear down the enamel on its teeth. This can lead to cavities and other dental problems. Your dental professional will determine whether mouthguards are necessary to prevent tooth wear. However, it is important to consult a team of professionals to understand and stop the cause of tooth grinding.

7. Thumb sucking

Children often use thumb sucking as a self-soothing mechanism. By doing so for prolonged periods, they can damage their teeth. This problem can usually lead to several issues, such as an open bite, meaning the upper and lower teeth do not touch.

Thumb sucking can also cause problems with proper chewing and even affect speech. If your child is still sucking its thumb after 3-4 years of age, it is best to look for ways to prevent it with the help of your pediatrician, dental professional, and other healthcare professionals.

Prevention is key: early habits for lifelong health

The bottom line is that by brushing your child’s teeth, staying informed about common problems, and regular visits to the dentist, you can prevent or correct most dental problems early.

Remember that it is up to you to create good habits in the children around you from a young age. Your care will be their care.

Sources:

• WebMD: Oral Health Problems in Children

The post What are the most common dental issues in children? appeared first on Utah Pediatric Dentists.

What Is a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency encompasses any oral health problem demanding immediate attention to relieve pain, avert additional harm, or preserve a tooth. These emergencies can happen suddenly and may involve a range of problems affecting your child’s teeth, gums, or mouth.

Understanding what constitutes a dental emergency is of paramount importance, especially for first-time parents. As caregivers, we often find ourselves faced with a myriad of new challenges, and when it comes to our child’s health, every moment counts. 

By knowing when to seek urgent treatment, parents can potentially save their children from unnecessary pain, complications, and long-term dental issues. Being well-informed about dental emergencies is a crucial aspect of responsible parenthood, providing peace of mind and promoting the best possible care for their little ones. 

See Also: The Importance of Regular Dental Visits For Your Child

Common Dental Emergencies in Children

Having a clear understanding of dental emergencies empowers parents to distinguish between situations that require immediate attention and those that can wait for a regular dental appointment. This knowledge not only helps alleviate anxiety but also ensures timely and appropriate care for their child’s oral health.

• Toothaches: Persistent toothaches can be a sign of an underlying problem, such as a cavity, abscess, or infection. If your child complains of a severe toothache, it’s essential to schedule a dental appointment promptly.
• Knocked-Out Teeth: Accidents can lead to knocked-out or avulsed teeth. In this scenario, urgency is paramount. Rinse the tooth gently without scrubbing and try to place it back in its socket if possible. If not, keep it in a container of milk and seek immediate dental care.
• Broken or Chipped Teeth: If your child chips or breaks a tooth, gather any broken pieces and rinse their mouth with warm water. Contact the dentist for guidance on whether immediate care is necessary. 
• Loose Baby Teeth: While loose baby teeth are a natural part of growing up, if a primary tooth becomes loose due to injury, consult your dentist for an evaluation.
• Object Stuck Between Teeth: If your child gets an object stuck between their teeth, resist the urge to use sharp objects to remove it, which could cause further damage. Instead, contact your dentist for assistance.
• Bleeding Gums: Persistent gum bleeding, especially after an injury or fall, could indicate gum damage or a more severe problem. Seek professional advice promptly.

See Also: My Child Chipped a Tooth: What Should I Do?

Steps to Handle a Dental Emergency

Just in case you need it, here is a step guide:

• Stay Calm: Your child will look to you for reassurance, so try to remain calm and composed.
• Assess the Situation: Determine the severity of the dental emergency. Is there bleeding, swelling, or visible damage?
• Contact Your Dentist: Call your pediatric dentist immediately to explain the situation and receive guidance on the next steps. Many dental offices have emergency protocols and can provide immediate assistance.
• First Aid: Depending on the situation, you may need to provide basic first aid, such as rinsing the mouth with warm water, applying a cold compress to reduce swelling, or using over-the-counter pain relievers if recommended by your dentist.
• Transport Safely: If the situation requires a visit to the dentist’s office, ensure your child is transported safely. Keep any dislodged teeth or broken pieces in a clean container with milk or saline solution.
• Prevention: Remember that prevention is the best strategy. Encourage your child to wear mouthguards during sports activities, and maintain good oral hygiene to reduce the risk of dental emergencies.

Natural Ways to Alleviate Toothache Discomfort

While not substitutes for immediate dental care, some natural remedies can help alleviate the discomfort associated with toothaches caused by pain or inflammation. Here are five home remedies that can provide temporary relief for your child:

1. Saltwater Rinse: To reduce inflammation and clean the affected area. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, have your child swish it gently, and then spit it out.
2. Garlic: Garlic’s natural antibacterial properties may help with toothache pain. Grind a garlic clove into a paste and administer it to the afflicted region. Use this remedy with caution due to its strong odor.
3. Peppermint Tea: Peppermint tea has soothing properties. Brew a cup, let it cool down, and have your child rinse their mouth with it. You can also use a cooled tea bag as a compress on the sore area.
4. Aloe Vera Gel: Pure aloe vera gel has anti-inflammatory properties and can be applied directly to the painful area for relief.
5. Ice Pack: Applying a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth to the outside of the cheek near the sore tooth can numb the area and reduce swelling. Ensure the ice doesn’t directly touch the skin to prevent frostbite.

These natural remedies can temporarily alleviate pain and inflammation, but it’s essential to remember that they do not replace the need for professional dental evaluation and treatment. Consulting a pediatric dentist promptly is crucial to address the underlying cause of the toothache and prevent further complications.

In conclusion, dental emergencies can be unsettling, but with the right knowledge and quick action, you can minimize the impact on your child’s oral health. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for prevention, but accidents can happen. Knowing how to respond can make all the difference in ensuring your child’s dental well-being. If you ever find yourself facing a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatric dentist for support and guidance. Your child’s smile is worth it!

The post Understanding Dental Emergencies in Children: A Guide for Parents appeared first on Utah Pediatric Dentists.

We want to see your kids’ smiles. Is it time for a pediatric dental office visit? Do you know what types of services we offer? Do you know why you should visit a pediatric dentist instead of a general dentist? Here’s a rundown of everything you should know about pediatric dentistry.

Pediatric Dentistry FACTS

1. Did you know pediatric dentists have more training than general dentists? Pediatric dentists complete an additional two to the three-year unique program following dentistry school. This additional training is specific to pediatric care, which means different sized tools and techniques for procedures. Additionally, their learning and training are focused on children’s psychological and physical development from infancy through their teenage years.
2. Dental hygiene habits start in infancy. Even before their first tooth, you should gently cleanse their gums with a soft, wet washcloth (be sure it’s clean!) after breastfeeding or bottle feeding. Once that first tooth has popped, use an infant toothbrush to build the habit of brushing it in the mornings and the evenings before bed.
3. Your little one should have their first dental visit either when they turn one 3year old or when their first tooth has come in. As with starting dental hygiene habits early, dentist visits should become a routine part of their life, similar to a visit to the doctor’s office. Positive dental experiences are essential. Furthermore, we know that the earlier we start with those, the less likely it is that dental anxiety will be an issue in the future.
4. Cavities in baby teeth should be restored, not ignored. Nor should the baby tooth be removed. Why? The primary teeth serve multiple essential functions for the development of your child. Firstly, the cavities can be extremely painful. Secondly, as your toddler is learning to switch from a liquid diet to foods, chewing is essential! Thirdly, the primary teeth help your child’s speech development; the tongue touching the teeth is necessary for most of the sounds we use in our speech. Lastly, the primary teeth also serve as placeholders in our jaws for the permanent teeth. The surrounding teeth may move around if a primary tooth is extracted before its natural timing.
5. Dental sealants are a necessary preventative procedure in pediatric dentistry. They are painless and serve to help protect the teeth from cavities. Kids can have trouble reaching the deep grooves and valleys in the molars; after all, motor skills are learned over time, and even adults have trouble with those spots in their teeth. The dental sealants are typically a transparent color or colored to match the tooth. The procedure is quick and painless. We thoroughly clean and dry the tooth before applying a gel to rough the surface up slightly for better adhesion. Following that, the sealant is applied. Once the sealant has dried (typically, we use a blue light), the procedure is finished. Usually, your child can eat at their next snack or mealtime without a problem. Dental sealants have been proven to reduce the risk for decay in molars by up to 80%. For more information about sealants, click here.
6. Utah Pediatric Dentists can help you with breastfeeding. Each of our locations has the CO2 LightScalpel laser, and our pediatric dentists have been specially trained in its proper use. This cutting-edge technology allows us to help breastfeeding mothers whose babies have a lip tie or tongue tie. We have had mothers travel to see us from hundreds of miles away because the CO2 laser is proven to be a better, more effective, and less painful process than other tools or technologies. Read here for more information about how our CO2 laser may help you and your baby.
7. We recommend mouth guards for all sports, not only contact sports. A broken, chipped tooth that has been knocked loose can be painful and alarming for your kid. More than 80 million kids nationwide participate in sports, and studies have shown that athletes using mouth guards are 82-93% less likely to have a dentofacial injury. Protect those smiles, and avoid painful mouth injuries by talking with your pediatric dentist about a mouth guard. For more information about mouth guards, click here.
8. Most kids get cavities. Don’t feel guilty, parents, even when you’re a champion for moderation in sweets. Moreover, you try to limit sodas and sugary drinks, but the truth is that most kids get cavities. In fact, according to the CDC, over 52% of kids between the ages of six and eight have had a cavity in a primary tooth. What does this mean for you? The meaning for you is two-fold: number one, don’t beat yourself up about it, and number two, talk to your pediatric dentist about preventative care, your dental hygiene routines in the house, and schedule biannual teeth cleanings.

Schedule Your Biannual Checkup for Your Kids with Utah Pediatric Dentists

We care about our community and our patients and their families. Come and see us; we want to hear about your summer. Show us those smiles, and tell us summer stories while we clean your kids’ pearly whites. We have three convenient locations in the Salt Lake City area (Bountiful, Taylorsville, and Stansbury Park), all fully staffed and equipped so your kids can receive the best care.

The post Fact Check – Everything You Need to Know About Pediatric Dentistry appeared first on Utah Pediatric Dentists.

We expect our babies to grow the first few adorable little whites within the first year. Most homes generally have a routine to brush teeth in the mornings and again at night before bed. We teach our children to put their lost teeth under their pillow for the tooth fairy, and we associate healthy smiles to the general color category of white. So, what does it mean then, when one of your kids’ pearlies is actually a grey color? 

A grey tooth is what we call a necrotic tooth or pulp necrosis. This means that the pulp of the tooth has suffered damage to its blood supply. Without proper blood supply, the tissue begins to die, thereby changing the color of the tooth from white to grey. 

Why is My Child’s Tooth Grey?

The potential causes of a grey tooth include the following:

• Dental trauma – this is the most likely cause of a necrotic tooth in children. One of the reasons we strongly advise parents to invest in mouth guards for kids who play sports of any kind is because the use of mouth guards can actually reduce the chances of a dental trauma injury by 73%-83%. Nevertheless, even with the use of mouth guards while engaged in sports activities dental trauma injuries can occur. An accidental elbow to the face, or a head first tumble for your walking toddler. These injuries can occur even with the best of safe guards in place. If your child has suffered a dental injury such as a chipped tooth or a tooth has been knocked loose or all the way out, follow these steps and give us a call immediately. Quick reactions can save the tooth.
• Severe and untreated tooth decay – this cause is less likely if you’re keeping your kids to the recommended biannual cleaning and checkup schedule in addition to encouraging healthy dental hygiene routines at home.
• Gum disease – another cause avoidable with healthy dental hygiene at home and routine checkups and cleanings at your local pediatric dentist.

Can a Grey Tooth Be Saved?

Actually, a grey tooth can be saved if action is taken quickly enough. When the whole of the tooth is mostly intact in spite of the dead or dying pulp tissue within, measures can be taken to save the tooth itself. For this we may perform a pediatric pulpotomy or a root canal.

This means we must first create a hole within the enamel to get inside the tooth to remove the infected or decaying pulp from the inside of the tooth. Next a healing medicine is applied to soothe the nerves and treat any bacteria attempting to grow (which can spread to the root and cause an abscess if untreated). Once that part of the treatment is completed, we reseal the entry and create a cap to cover the tooth. If the tooth in question is a baby tooth (primary tooth) we may opt to cover the entry with a composite filling instead of a cap. A composite filling is a more economic route, and only appropriate in the case of a primary tooth because the tooth’s lifespan is only a few years as opposed to if it were a permanent tooth in question.

Does a Dead Baby Tooth Need to Be Pulled?

In general, we avoid tooth extractions whenever possible. The primary teeth, serve as place holders for their permanent teeth and our bodies generally allow primary teeth to loosen and fall out naturally in accordance for the timing of the eruption of the permanent teeth. Additionally, primary teeth serve to help our children chew and eat foods properly and develop proper speech patterns. 

Nevertheless, if your child has a necrotic tooth that is causing severe pain, an infection in the gums or spreading to other teeth, a pediatric pulpotomy may not be appropriate. In these rare circumstances, we may need to simply extract the tooth. For this to be necessary your child would likely be experiencing severe tooth pain, therefore we urge parents to listen to their children when they complain of tooth pain. Don’t wait for it to become severe before scheduling an appointment for a consult. 

What if the Teeth Have Grey Spots?

If the tooth or teeth are not wholly grey but instead have grey or black spots or streaks, that doesn’t necessarily mean necrosis is to blame. 

These grey colored spots may be indicative of too much iron in their diet. Iron supplements, fortified cereals, or iron-rich water may be to blame. When iron is the culprit, assist your child with tooth brushing for a time and they will disappear.

Grey spots could also be an indication of over exposure to fluoride. Is your child using an appropriate amount of toothpaste when they brush? Are they spitting out the toothpaste or swallowing it instead?

If grey lines or spots are visible near the gum line, they could be indicative of decay, because that area of the tooth can be the hardest for kids to brush properly. Are you taking a turn to help them brush at night before bed?

Call Utah Pediatric Dentists and Schedule a Consult

In any of the aforementioned cases, it is important to seek advice and assistance from your pediatric dentist. We can determine the cause, and appropriate treatment while providing you and your child with reassurance and choices about the best way to move forward with a healthy smile.

The post Why is My Child’s Tooth Grey? Grey Teeth Explained appeared first on Utah Pediatric Dentists.

Here’s a handful of reasons for you to understand why not only the routine daily dental care of your kids’ baby teeth is important but the value of filling cavities in baby teeth as opposed to leaving them alone or simply extracting the tooth.

1. Chewing Skills and Speech

Baby teeth serve to help the development of eating habits, and speech patterns. Consider that the front teeth primarily function to bite off foods, but the grinding process occurs with the molars. We prefer to extract teeth only in certain circumstances: when the tooth is so severely decayed that proper restoration is not possible, or if a primary tooth is preventing a permanent tooth from erupting.

Speech is the outcome of a blend of tongue, teeth, and lips working together as they control sound and airflow coming out of your mouth. Not every single sound requires the tongue to strike the teeth, but the majority do. Just for fun try saying the following sentence without allowing your tongue to touch your teeth or lips:

“Thank you for this delicious meal.” Doesn’t come out sounding correct at all, does it?

2. Keep the Space

Moreover, they are excellent placeholders. The formation of their bite and the drawn-out eruption of the permanent teeth is a delicate balance maintained by the primary teeth which generally have all erupted between the ages of three and four years old. Typically, healthy primary teeth won’t begin to fall out until your child is six to seven years old. Permanent teeth start erupting around the same time, but the eruption timeline for them stretches out until their late teens. Some wisdom teeth erupt even as late as 21 years of age. When a primary tooth is extracted, the rest of the teeth in the jaw can drift a bit, consequently crowding can be an issue later on. 

3. Pain and Infection

Untreated cavities in primary teeth can spread, worsen, and lead to severe decay which in turn can be quite painful and negatively impact their quality of life. Abscesses, infections, dental sepsis are all painful complications that can develop and require serious interventions. While less painful perhaps, the untreated cavities in baby teeth can be visible and depending on their age impact their confidence and raise unnecessary insecurities.

4. Hypodontia / Oligodontia / Anodontia 

This reason is often surprising to people, but it actually affects a markedly large percentage of the population. Moreover, it addresses the original question pretty precisely. Hypodontia is when one to six permanent tooth or teeth fail/s to even form. This means the baby tooth that erupts will never get a replacement and therefore its importance jumps to the front of the line, immediately. Taking care of the baby teeth should be important anyway, but if that baby tooth is the only one they will have in that position for the rest of their life? That certainly puts a new perspective on it, doesn’t it?

Oligodontia is when more than six permanent teeth fail to form and occurs significantly less often than hypodontia, while anodontia is a total absence of permanent teeth and is even rarer. The most common permanent teeth to be missing in a case of hypodontia are actually the wisdom teeth which often are extracted anyway so people don’t get concerned about a missing one or two. Next in line are the premolars that are located on the sides between the canines and the molars, followed by the upper lateral incisors, and then the lower central incisors.

An estimated 20% of adults have hypodontia, and while it’s been linked to genetics, research suggests environmental factors may influence its occurrence as well. The condition presents more often in women, with identical twins displaying a higher than average rate as well.

If you’re a parent reading this who has a baby tooth that was never replaced by a permanent tooth, then it is possible this trait could present in your child(ren) but should not be an automatic conclusion. Tell your child’s pediatric dentist if hypodontia applies to you, so they can be aware to look for it. If your child currently has a gap due to a lost baby tooth and the permanent tooth has yet to erupt, no need to panic. This does not automatically mean there is no permanent tooth, it is more than likely only a delayed eruption of the permanent tooth.

Restorations for Baby Teeth

If we discover a cavity in a baby tooth, we’ll discuss with you the options available for restoration so you can make an informed decision. Generally, we recommend resin composite fillings because they match the color of the teeth, and dry quickly allowing for a shorter period of time in the dentist chair.

Dental Checkups Matter

Even if your kids don’t have complaints, it’s important that they have routine dental office checkups. Some insurances only cover visits once a year, but we normally recommend bi-annual visits (every six months). When was the last time your kids came in to see us? We have four offices spread over the Bountiful area, all conveniently located and designed to put your child at ease. We’re here for you, so give us a call and put us to work!!

The post Reasons Why Restoring Baby Teeth is Important appeared first on Utah Pediatric Dentists.

Hot Tips for Healthy Summer Smiles

1. Choose Crushed Ice: This one may seem like it’s coming at you out of the left-field, but it’s a great tip that’s easy to gain your kids’ approval for. The truth is, that crunching on ice cubes is harmful to the enamel on our teeth. Crunching ice can crack the enamel of the tooth which can result in cold sensitivity and increased vulnerability to cavities. Add to that, the potential for actually chipping or cracking a tooth, which is a legitimately shocking and even painful experience, do we need to say more? Bottom line, everyone wants ice-cold drinks, especially in the Utah summer heat, and we can’t begrudge anyone that desire, so here’s your workaround. Choose crushed ice whenever possible!
2. Mouth Guards Make a Difference: Just because school sports are on a break, doesn’t mean your kids won’t be playing this summer. Whether it’s competitive tournaments, or a more casual rec league doesn’t matter when it comes to the propensity for dental emergencies. Mouth guards are essential for any sport. A large portion of our emergency dental visits to the office are a result of a broken or chipped tooth from a ball game, a bike crash, or simply falling on the wet, slippery surface by the pool. Mouth guards will protect their teeth in those types of situations, even the more economical versions found at your local store. Give us a call to learn more about a custom-fitted mouth guard that will have the advantage of increased comfort.
3. Ensure Crunchy Veggies Are Available: You won’t be the menu master at other people’s home parties, but you sure are for your own! When you’re planning a summer bash, make sure you put out vegetable platters with crunchy carrots, celery, bell pepper, broccoli, cauliflower, and more. Go further, and integrate these vegetables into your daily snack options for your kids. Take a morning or afternoon and prep them by cleaning, peeling, and slicing so they’re easy to grab or pack if your kids are headed out the door. Not only are vegetables rich in vitamins, but the crunchiness serves as a scrubber for the teeth, helping to remove sugars or other food debris that is otherwise lodged in their teeth. Also, why not bring a veggie platter to your neighbor’s pool party?
4. Lemonade in Moderation: Who doesn’t love a lemonade or a limeade in the summertime? Your teeth, that’s who. These delicious summer drinks are a double whammy on teeth: the citrus runs an assault the enamel while the enormous amount of sugar dives in and hides in the nooks and crannies looking for vulnerabilities. We generally prefer to avoid doling out a hard ‘no’ on anything as we know that kids often love what they can’t have, yet we encourage these types of drinks to be limited. Also, after a limeade or a lemonade follow it up with a generous swig of water. Swish the water around and spit it out to help wash away residue citrus and sugars.
5. Refillable Water Bottles: We love the benefits of water, as demonstrated in the aforementioned lemonade tip. In general, swishing and then spitting a mouthful of water after any snack or meal that has sugars, sauces, or stickiness is highly recommended. When your kids are out and about, they are less likely to splurge on a soda or other sugary drink if their water bottle is already on hand. The same goes for you, parents. Carrying around your water bottle sets a positive example for your kids, and will help you moderate the temptation to buy yourself a cold sugary drink when you’re sitting in the sun watching a game, or hanging by the pool or grill. Other benefits to utilizing refillable water bottles include the fluoride benefit from the city’s water supply, and the cash benefit as well. $1.50 (or more) every day adds up.
6. Travel Toothbrush and Toothpaste: At any local drugstore, you can find travel-sized toothpaste and toothbrushes that will fit easily into your purse, your kid’s backpack or sports bag, and even the console of your car. Make brushing teeth a priority, even when your family is on a road trip or weekend getaway. 
7. Schedule a Cleaning: The majority of dental insurance plans these days cover two cleanings per year. When was the last time your kids had a cleaning? If you can schedule around vacations, getting in for cleanings during the summer is easier than pulling them out of school, or utilizing the short afternoons Monday through Friday during the school year. Utilize your dental plan to its maximum benefit, and schedule cleanings for your kids this summer.

Call Utah Pediatric Dentists Today

We have three fully equipped and staffed office locations waiting to hear from you. Our team of staff is dedicated to happy kids with healthy smiles. We’re just a phone call away, and look forward to hearing from you! Happy summer, we hope you enjoy it to the fullest!

The post Summer Parties Can Be Fun for Your Smile Too appeared first on Utah Pediatric Dentists.

Dental Health and Hygiene Habits

1. Brush teeth twice per day for two minutes. Mornings before school, and at night before bed are what we aim for. There are fun songs about brushing teeth, or time a song that your little ones enjoy and put it on repeat for two minutes. Brushing teeth should start as soon as the first tooth erupts. Read all about dental care in babies (it actually starts before the eruption) in our guide, ‘Baby Teeth: Eruption Timeline and How to Care for Them‘.

2. Include the tongue as part of brushing. We don’t always consciously think about it, but our tongues actually do quite a bit of work to clear debris between our teeth, and its very presence in the mouth means it is in contact with the same sugars and bacteria as our teeth. Be sure to incorporate a few brush strokes of the tongue into the two minutes. To learn more about how the tongue is a visual indicator of our health, read all about it in our post, ‘Is My Child’s Tongue Healthy?‘

3. Take your child to the store and let them pick out their own toothbrush. Letting them select their toothbrush will give them a sense of responsibility and ownership of their dental health. There are all sorts of fun colors and characters, so let them have some fun with it.

There are electric toothbrushes being marketed for children, however, we encourage you to research a bit before you buy. We wrote a guide for parents about this topic, ‘What’s the Best Electric Toothbrush for Kids?‘, hint (there’s only one on today’s market that has ADA approval).

4. Switch toothbrushes out every three months or sooner if you notice the bristles are worn. With frequent and proper use, those toothbrush bristles will wear out. Bristles that are worn on a toothbrush can actually harm your gums by wearing down the enamel and even causing your gums to recede. Furthermore, the fact is, worn-out bristles simply don’t clean properly. They bend away from the surface instead of stretching into the nooks and crannies of the teeth and in between.

Nevertheless, even if the bristles don’t look worn out, you need to replace it on a three-month timeline. Why? Take a look at your broom and you’ll likely notice a buildup of dust or debris on those bristles. Imagine a toothbrush to be similar to a broom. Its job is to brush away bacteria and debris on your teeth. While proper care of your toothbrush means food debris isn’t likely present, over time invisible bacteria will still build up on those bristles. For more information about proper care of your toothbrush, check out our in-depth article: “Toothbrush Care Guide: Everything Parents Need to Know”.

5. Floss at least once a day. Most parents who bring their kids into our offices will agree with our twice a day tooth brushing recommendation, and back it up by their actions. However, it isn’t uncommon to have a parent sheepishly admit that they don’t floss as often as they should. We aren’t here to shame anyone in regard to their dental habits. Odds are high that the parents who don’t floss very often, simply didn’t grow up flossing! Habits that we learn as children can stick with us throughout adulthood! Start out encouraging your kids to floss, and join them yourself. You are never too old to learn new healthy habits, and flossing is one that is a positive habit for everyone. Check out new and interesting flavors, (remember to look for the ADA seal).

6. Invest in a mouth guard for sports. Mouth injuries happen to kids, even if they aren’t playing a contact sport such as football. We recommend mouth guards should be worn for all sports, including biking and skateboarding. Studies show that wearing a mouth guard will lessen the likelihood of dentofacial injuries by more than 82%. A broken or chipped tooth, a root fracture, or a tooth knocked loose or all the way out is considered a dental emergency. Read our step-by-step guide on what to do in that type of situation to prepare yourself, ‘What Do You Do When Your Kid Breaks a Tooth?‘

7. Up your water intake! Most store-bought beverages have a shocking amount of sugar in them (or sugar substitutes) that might be tasty but are terrible for our teeth. It’s unfair to ask anyone to give up all other drinks, but we do think it’s fair to encourage you to increase the amount of water you and your kids are drinking. City water is treated with fluoride which is a vital defense for teeth. Furthermore, water will help rinse away bacteria and sugars from your meals and snacks in between your brushing routine. One way to facilitate more water throughout the day is utilizing a refillable water bottle and taking it with you on errands, and sending it in backpacks to school. When water is within easy reach, your kids are more likely to drink more of it.

Start Off the New Year by Scheduling a Checkup and Cleaning!

It’s never too late to prioritize the dental health of your children (and yourself!) All of the above tips for healthy habits can be applied to each member of your family, regardless of age. Utilize those dental benefits on your insurance this year, and start out by scheduling a checkup and dental cleaning for each of your kids. Preventative care is the bedrock of happy healthy smiles in our community. Give us a call, and we’ll help you start the year of dental strong.

The post 7 Kids Dental Health Habits for a Happy New Year appeared first on Utah Pediatric Dentists.

Pediatric Dentistry Frequently Asked Questions (and Answers)

When should I bring my child in for their first dental checkup?

We typically suggest you bring in your little one when their first tooth has erupted. This is generally between six to 12 months of age. If your baby is turning one year old and has yet to have their first tooth poke through, it’s time for a dental checkup, yes even without a tooth. For more in-depth information about this topic, check out our article.

How should I clean my baby’s teeth?

You can purchase a special infant toothbrush at most drugstores. The bristles should be soft and the head of the brush especially small to better fit their mouth. Brush twice a day, using a tiny amount of toothpaste (such as a grain of rice).

What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a regular dentist?

Pediatric dentists complete two to three additional years of specialized training after dental school. This additional training focuses on the techniques and tools specifically designed for children’s comfort as well as training to encounter, understand, and address the developmental and emotional needs for infants to adolescents, including children with special needs. For more information, read this article.

Are pacifiers bad for my baby’s teeth?

Pacifiers and thumb sucking are natural soothing habits for babies and toddlers. They can become harmful if they persist beyond three years of age. Chat with your pediatric dentist if you have concerns.

How often should my kid visit the dentist?

Everyone, adults included, should have two dental checkups per year. Most insurances have transitioned to including coverage for two per year, as companies analyze the cost benefits of preventative care. Be sure you’re maximizing your dental insurance benefits before the year is out, for more information about this, read our in-depth article.

How do I prevent tooth decay from nursing or bottle rot?

Research shows that breast milk while containing sugar, does not cause tooth decay, however once your baby begins eating foods the potential for tooth decay will arise. Bottle rot is a common term that refers to tooth decay that is caused due to improper bottle feeding habits. Keep your baby’s access to their bottle limited, and never put juice in it. Even before your baby erupts their first tooth, you should gently wash their gums with a clean washcloth and water to scrub away any lingering bacteria. For more detailed information about how to avoid bottle rot, read our article, here.

Should my child get dental sealants?

Dental sealants are a preventative measure dentists use that we strongly recommend. The crevices and ridges in teeth, particularly the back molars are favorite spots for bacteria and food stuffs to linger. Additionally, those back teeth are more difficult for children to reach when they brush. The dental sealants literally seal a protective coat to the crevices of the teeth protecting them from tooth decay and making them less deep, and therefore easier to brush clean. For more information about dental sealants, read here.

Does my child need fluoride treatments?

Is your primary source of water treated with fluoride? Or do you typically drink store-bought bottled water? Most city and town water sources have been treated with fluoride, it’s in fact considered one of the greatest public health accomplishments in the last century. Check to be sure your toothpaste has fluoride. When your child comes in for a dental visit we can discuss whether your child is a good candidate for a fluoride treatment, or supplement. We know that some families find the topic of fluoride controversial, so if you have concerns please bring them to us so that we can discuss. You can also read more about fluoride treatments, here.

What do I do if my child chips a tooth or one is knocked out?

Retrieve the tooth (or piece of it), but avoid touching the root. Place the tooth in a sealed container with milk, and call your pediatric dentist for an emergency dental appointment right away. For more detailed guidance if you find yourself in this circumstance, we’ve written up several scenarios and step by step instructions for how to respond. You can find them, here.

Many of these instances occur due to injuries from sports activities. We strongly urge parents to invest in mouth guards for their children. Mouth guards are required for contact sports such as football, but research shows they are necessary for all sports activities. For more information about mouth guards, check out this article.

What do I do when my child has a toothache?

If your child complains of a toothache, it is likely to be a symptom of tooth decay. Have them rinse their mouth out with some room temperature salt water. You can give them an appropriate dosage of child’s acetaminophen to help with the pain, and an icepack for their cheek if the area is also swollen. You’ll also need to schedule a visit with your pediatric dentist as soon as possible.

Why does a cavity in a baby tooth need to be filled?

A cavity in a baby tooth needs to be treated not only to ease your child’s pain, but also because the decay in one tooth can spread into others when left untreated. We prefer not to pull a tooth in such a circumstance because our body’s natural inclination is for the baby tooth to fall out when it’s ready. Until then, the baby teeth serve to preserve the space for the permanent tooth, and help with chewing and proper speech.

Are dental X-rays safe?

As previously mentioned, pediatric dentists are specially trained to work with kids. We take special care to limit exposure, lead protective aprons are used as is high-speed film. X-rays are important for pediatric dentists to properly assess dental issues so that nothing is overlooked that could become a bigger problem later on.

Schedule Your Child’s Dental Appointment Today

Before you get caught up in the swing of the holidays, be sure to get your child’s second annual dental checkup and cleaning scheduled! Our offices in South Davis, Herriman, and Redwood are at your service. Give us a call today.

The post Pediatric Dentistry Master List of FAQs for Kids Dental Health appeared first on Utah Pediatric Dentists.

Most insurance plans include coverage for dental services for all members of the family in question. You are paying those monthly premiums, however have you checked to see if you’re maximizing the dental insurance benefits in your plan? Some things to consider:

• Has each child in your family had dental X-rays taken this year?
• Has each child in your family had 2 dental cleanings this year?
• Has one of your children complained about dental pain but you’ve forgotten about it in the everyday bustle of life?

Questions to Ask Your Dental Insurance Provider

1. What is my copay?
2. What is my maximum coverage amount per person in the family?
3. Does my coverage include basic preventative care?
4. Are X-rays covered?
5. If yes, under what circumstances and/or with what frequency?
6. Are dental cleanings covered?
7. If yes, how many per year?
8. Are fluoride treatments covered?
9. If yes, are their age restrictions for fluoride treatments?
10. What is my coverage for basic restorative care?
11. Is basic restorative care covered up to a certain amount or is a percentage of it covered?
12. What is considered basic restorative care in my plan?
13. Is in-office sedation covered in my plan?

General Information About Dental Insurance

Basic preventative care typically covers two dental cleanings per year, some plans include a fluoride treatment at the cleaning appointment under the coverage, while others do not. Other insurance plans only cover fluoride treatments for certain ages.

Annual X-rays may be covered by your insurance, while yet other plans only cover them when deemed necessary by the dentist. Such circumstances when X-rays would be necessary would be in preparation for restorative work.

Some plans may cover mouth guards for children under preventative care but not all. Which is unfortunate due to the fact that we know dental injuries are common and preventable with the use of mouth guards when engaging in any type of sport activity!

Basic restorative care typically includes fillings, dental emergencies such as chipped or knocked loose teeth, as well as crowns or root canals. It’s important to ask your insurance questions about basic restorative care, due to the fact that while fillings are almost always covered, they might have restrictions on said coverage. For example, most people prefer composite fillings on the grounds that the composite material blends in with the color of the tooth so as to not be obvious. Some dental plans may only cover amalgam fillings, which are structurally sound but have the disadvantage of being metal in appearance and therefore not very discreet.

Partial Coverage for Restorative Dental Work

Don’t be surprised if you learn that your plan will only fully cover some basic preventative care services. It’s pretty common for restorative care to be partially covered. Partial coverage can mean that they’ll cover up to a certain amount in a year period for each member of your family (or in some cases a certain amount per family) while with other insurance providers, partial coverage means the insurance company will cover a percentage of restorative care services.

Furthermore, some insurances cover partial until a threshold is reached. Upon reaching that threshold, you may be entitled to full coverage again. Accordingly, if this is your circumstance, it’s important to find out how close to that threshold you are.

In-Office Sedation Services and Dental Coverage

When you are checking the details of your dental coverage with your insurance provider, it’s a good idea to ask for details about sedation. Our offices provide three different sedation options:

• Oral Sedation – prescription sedatives for the night prior or the day of a procedure or visit, we may suggest and also implement if your child suffers dental anxiety or has developmental delays that may cause difficulties for dental procedures.
• Nitrous Oxide – also referred to as “laughing gas” is most often utilized in conjunction with a local numbing agent for restorative dental procedures.
• Intravenous Sedation – unlike general anesthesia utilized in hospitals by surgeons, our intravenous sedation technique does not inhibit the protective reflexes, which mainly means our patients under intravenous sedation can breathe on their own.

Any time we consider in-office sedation, we first review the options, the benefits, including the circumstances with the parents. If there is a concern for cost and/or insurance coverage, we will work with you and together we’ll find a solution.

Utah Pediatric Dentists Accepts Most Insurance

We work with most insurance companies, if you don’t find your provider on this list, give us a call to double check that your provider isn’t a new addition.

• Aetna
• Assurant/Sun Life Financial
• Ameritas
• Allegiance
• Anthem BCBS
• Regence BCBS
• BCBS Federal
• Blue Cross of Illinois (Blue Care)
• Blue Cross of Michigan (Blue Dental)
• Carrington
• Cigna
• Dental Select
• DMBA
• Dentist Direct/Direct Care Administrators
• Dentamax
• Delta Dental
• EMI
• GEHA – Connection Dental Network
• Guardian
• Humana – Connection Dental Network
• Life Map
• Lincoln Financial Group/Lincoln Dental Connect
• Metlife
• Traditional Medicaid
• Medicaid Premier Access
• Premier Access PPO
• Premier Access Chip
• PEHP
• Principle – EMI Network
• Standard Life Insurance/Reliance Standard
• Select Health
• Utah Sheet Metal/JAS/Southwest Service Administrators
• United Concordia PPO
• United Concordia Tricare/Active Duty
• United Healthcare – GEHA/Connection Dental Network

Book an Appointment Right Away

Don’t wait for your dental benefits to expire! Some dental services require impressions that must be sent to a lab for production which means a time lag of at least a week. Schedule an appointment with your pediatric dentist before the holiday season speeds up.

Disneyland Giveaway

We’re hosting a Disneyland Giveaway for one family this November, enter to win and that lucky family can be yours! We’ve established 12 different methods for you to enter the sweepstakes, moreover there’s no limit to your total number of entries. On November 15th, we’ll draw the name of one lucky family. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if it was your name? For more information on how to enter, click here.

The post 2021 Dental Insurance Benefits Expire Soon. Book Visit Today! appeared first on Utah Pediatric Dentists.

How Does a Chipped or Broken Tooth Occur?

1. When we use our teeth as tools – Unfortunately, people use their teeth to open objects, packages, bottles etc.
2. Fall down – A fall can cause the jaw to snap shut harshly or to hit our jaw on some other object thereby causing the damage.
3. Blows to the face such as from fights, sports, bicycle, or car accidents.
4. Chewing ice or other especially tough foods could also cause chipping.
5. Bruxism is another potential cause that is grinding and/or clenching your teeth in your sleep, or unconsciously when awake.

Reason number one is why every dentist will tell you that you should never use your teeth to open something. Even an object as harmless-seeming as plastic packaging.
Reasons number two and three are why we strongly advocate the use of mouthguards for kids when they go biking or play any sport, even if that sport isn’t considered a contact sport.
Reason number four is a little trickier, but we encourage you to avoid hard candies for your kids, and explain to your kids early on that chewing ice is harmful to their teeth before it can develop into a habit that is challenging to break.
Reason number five can be alleviated by the use of a mouth guard at night. For more information about mouthguards, check out our in-depth post on the topic titled, “Why Your Kids Should Use a Mouth Guard“.

Regardless of the reason, if your child chips or breaks a tooth you should call us immediately for a dental emergency appointment. We have four office locations in around Salt Lake City, and our pediatric dentists and hygienists are here to help.

What Can a Pediatric Dentist Do for a Chipped or Broken Tooth?

So, we’ve established that a broken or chipped tooth can’t repair itself, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have options. We may recommend a bonding repair method, veneers, dental crowns, or a dental filling. The options depend on the severity of the chip or break, and the location of the damaged tooth. You might think having a chipped front tooth is the worst due to the fact that it’s impossible to hide. Nevertheless, a broken or chipped molar is often incredibly painful and more serious for the reason that your molars are vital to the chewing of your food.
More Information About the Repair Options
Bonding is exceedingly common for smaller chips or breaks. The dentist roughs up the area around the damage a bit and next, molds and a bond composite over the damaged spot. This bond composite is a color similar to that of the actual tooth so as to not be obvious. This repair method can last approximately ten years. In this process of restoration, we might be able to use the piece that broke off.
Veneers are a more expensive repair option and often are chosen because of their cosmetic appeal. Veneers are a porcelain cover for the outer face of the tooth. They can be applied to the nearby teeth as well to create a blended cosmetically appealing look. This is more typical in cases when a front tooth has been chipped.
We may recommend a dental crown when the chip or break is large. A dental crown is a two-step process. We start by doing a mold and then fitting a temporary crown, this will protect the vulnerable inner part of the tooth. The mold is then sent to a lab for a long-term crown to be created. At the second appointment, we remove the temporary crown and attach and seal the lab crown, which will also match the tooth in color. It’s important to note that a temporary crown will not be as strong as the lab-created. Avoid crunchy, chewy foods in the area of that tooth if possible.

What If You Have the Piece of Tooth that Broke Off?

Remember, don’t wait to call the dentist. You should call us for an emergency appointment, immediately. If you have a piece of the tooth, here is how to take care of it until you can get in to see us:

1. 1. Submerge the piece of tooth in a container with milk, do not rinse it first with water.
2. Rinse your child’s mouth out with warm water.
3. Give them an ice pack for their jaw around the area to help with the pain.
4. Come in to see us, and don’t forget to bring the chip in the milk container.

What If the Whole Tooth Is Knocked Out?

Call us immediately for an emergency dental appointment! Do not touch the root part of the tooth, pick it up by the crown (the part that sits above the gum line) and submerge it in a container with milk.
If the tooth that was knocked out is a permanent tooth but is whole and not chipped or broken, you can, depending on your child’s emotional state, place the tooth back into the vacated socket. That should only be done if you can manage it without touching the root if it won’t upset your child, and you are sure the tooth is not broken or chipped.
The longer a permanent tooth is outside of the socket the less likely it is to re-embed into the gum. If the thought of reinserting the tooth on your own is too overwhelming, don’t feel guilty. The key is to get it submerged quickly into milk so that it doesn’t have the chance to dry out before you can get in to the dentist’s office and we’ll take care of the rest.

Reminder of Caution

If your child has already chipped or broken a tooth once, no matter how skilled the restoration work is, that tooth is at a higher risk of chipping or breaking again. Take extra care to utilize mouth guards at night in case of bruxism, and during sports activities. Moreover, please, please, please, don’t crunch ice or use teeth to open packages, bottles, etc.

The post What Do You Do When Your Kid Breaks a Tooth? appeared first on Utah Pediatric Dentists.