Your child’s overall state of health can be affected by the condition of their gums and teeth. For this very reason, your child’s pediatrician will talk to you about good dental habits for kids before their first tooth even erupts. It’s also why it’s so important to get your children to the dentist by the age of one to start regular checkups. Read more about this in our post, “At What Age Should You Take Your Child to the Dentist?”
Once your child’s very first tooth comes in, it is recommended by pediatricians and pediatric dentists that they started getting fluoride varnish treatments in order to help prevent tooth decay. Watch the video below to hear Dr. Jason Horgesheimer talk about the benefits of fluoride varnishes at South Davis Pediatric Dentistry.
Why are Fluoride Varnishes Important?
Fluoride varnishes are used to protect the teeth and to help prevent tooth decay. These fluoride treatments can be done two or four times per year. How often you get the treatments for your child is directly related to how likely it would be for your child to get a cavity.
“One of the benefits of coming to the dentist on a regular six-month basis is a fluoride treatment. Fluoride varnishes are simply smeared on the teeth and it’s very beneficial to intercept small little cavities. One or two applications of these fluoride varnishes can actually remineralize or strengthen these cavities so that we don’t need to actually restore them with a filling.” – Dr. Jason
While there are some pediatricians who will apply fluoride varnishes at their office, it is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) that the fluoride varnishes are applied at a dental office instead. Keep reading to learn more valuable information from the AAP regarding the use of fluoride varnish.
What is a Fluoride Varnish?
This is a type of dental treatment that can help prevent cavities and tooth decay, slow down the progression of tooth decay, or stop it altogether. Fluoride varnish is made with the mineral fluoride that’s known to strengthen the outer coating on the teeth, which is known as enamel.
It is important to realize that fluoride varnish treatments alone cannot completely prevent the formation of cavities. However, fluoride varnish treatments can help to prevent tooth decay and cavities when a child is also brushing their teeth with the right amount of fluoridated toothpaste, flossing regularly, eating a healthy diet, and visiting their pediatric dentist on a regular basis.
Are Fluoride Varnish Treatments Safe?
Fluoride varnish is safe. They are used by dentists and doctors around the entire world to help prevent cavities and prevent tooth decay from getting worse. The treatment alone contains a very small amount of fluoride and hardly any of it is swallowed. It hardens quickly immediately after it is applied. Then after four to twelve hours, it is brushed off.
Most children enjoy the taste of fluoride treatments as they are quite palatable. Some of the brands could make your child’s teeth appear yellow or dull, but this goes away once the treatment is brushed off.
How is Fluoride Varnish Applied to My Child’s Teeth?
The tincture which is known as the fluoride varnish is simply painted on the tops and the sides of each tooth with a little brush. At first, the substance may feel a bit sticky but as soon as it comes into contact with saliva it hardens. While your child might be able to feel the hardened varnish, they are not able to lick the varnish off of their teeth.
No pain is involved during the application process. However, some small children may still cry because they are fearful of the procedure. Brushing the varnish onto the teeth only takes a couple of minutes, and if the child is crying it can actually be applied at that time as their mouth will be slightly opened. In the case of small children, you may be asked to hold your child in your lap while you sit knee-to-knee with the person who is applying the varnish.
How Should I Care for My Child’s Teeth After the Fluoride Varnish is Applied?
Once the varnish has been applied to your child’s teeth, there are some general guidelines that you should pay attention to regarding the proper care for their teeth. Your doctor or pediatric dentist may offer other special instructions, so be sure to review with them as well.
Your child can start eating right after the varnish has been applied, but needs to avoid hot foods and drinks. Only cold and warm foods or liquids should be consumed right after the treatment.
Wait at least four to six hours before the child brushes or flosses their teeth. Many dentists will advise you to wait until the next morning to do so. Be sure that you instruct your child to spit everything out during the brushing of the fluoride varnish.
Other Reminders to Maintain Your Child’s Dental Health
Be sure your child is receiving care by a dentist who is specially trained to work with pediatric patients.
Ensure that your child receives enough – but not too much – fluoride.
Fluoride and fluoride varnishes are never meant to be swallowed. Be sure your child understands this.
Remind your child and check on them to be sure they are performing tooth brushing and flossing regularly.
Provide a healthy, balanced diet for your child full of fruits and vegetables.
It’s advised by the American Academy of Pediatrics to take your infant in for an oral health risk assessment by age six months or when their first tooth comes in (whichever comes first). This is especially true if the parents or other members of the family are especially prone to caries and tooth decay. Regardless, it’s important to have the child’s dental “home” established by their first birthday.
Do you have a baby that needs to be scheduled for their first check-up? Do you have children that are in need of fluoride varnish? Whatever the case may be, call the South Davis Pediatric Dentistry at (801) 294-8880 to get an appointment set up today. Physicians and parents throughout Bountiful, Centerville, Farmington, and Kaysville trust us for their child’s dental health needs, and so can you.
As parents, we often hear conflicting information about our children’s oral health. One common misconception that circulates among parents is the belief that baby teeth don’t matter because they eventually fall out. In fact, the reality is quite the opposite. Pediatric dentistry experts strongly emphasize the importance of baby teeth, and in this article, we aim to debunk this myth and shed light on why these tiny teeth play a crucial role in the development of your child’s oral health.
Myth: Baby Teeth Are Disposable
Baby teeth are indeed temporary, but they serve essential functions during your child’s early years. Here are some reasons why they matter:
Speech Development: Baby teeth help your child form sounds and words correctly. Losing them prematurely due to decay or other issues can hinder speech development.
Proper Nutrition: Chewing is crucial for breaking down food into manageable pieces for digestion. Baby teeth enable your child to eat a varied and balanced diet, which is essential for growth and development.
Space Holders: Baby teeth act as natural space holders for the permanent teeth developing beneath them. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, surrounding teeth may shift, potentially leading to crowding issues when the permanent teeth come in.
Confidence and Social Interaction: Healthy baby teeth contribute to your child’s self-esteem. Children with dental issues may be self-conscious about their smiles and avoid social interactions.
Oral Health Habits: Teaching your child proper oral hygiene from a young age is crucial. Caring for baby teeth sets the foundation for lifelong dental habits.
Myth: Baby Teeth Don’t Get Cavities
Baby teeth are susceptible to decay, just like adult teeth. Tooth decay in baby teeth can lead to pain, infection, and a host of other issues. If left untreated, it can even affect the development of permanent teeth.
Myth: Pediatric Dentists Aren’t Necessary for Baby Teeth
Pediatric dentists specialize in children’s oral health. They are trained to address the unique needs of young patients, including infants and toddlers. Regular visits to a pediatric dentist are essential for monitoring your child’s oral development and preventing dental issues.
Myth: It’s Normal for Children to Experience Toothaches
Toothaches in children are not normal and should never be ignored. Pain can be a sign of dental problems, and timely intervention is crucial to prevent further complications.
Caring for Your Child’s Baby Teeth
Here we present you five tips to take good care of your child’s smile:
Start Early: Begin cleaning your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth even before teeth emerge.
First Dental Visit: Schedule your child’s first dental appointment by their first birthday or when their first tooth emerges.
Oral Hygiene: Teach your child to brush their teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste as soon as the first tooth appears.
Diet Matters: Limit sugary snacks and drinks and encourage a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Regular Check-Ups: Visit your pediatric dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
Steps to Take When Your Child’s Baby Teeth Fall Out.
If the baby tooth is lost, here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do when your child’s baby teeth start falling out:
Stay Calm and Reassure Your Child: Losing a tooth can be a bit scary for kids, so stay calm and reassure them that it’s a natural process.
Gently Remove the Tooth: If the tooth is loose and ready to come out, you can gently wiggle it or let your child do so. Never force a tooth out; it should come out naturally.
Clean the Area: After the tooth comes out, rinse your child’s mouth with warm water to ensure it’s clean.
Apply Pressure if Needed: If there’s bleeding, have your child bite down on a clean gauze pad or a clean piece of cloth for a few minutes. This should help stop the bleeding.
What Not to Do
While it’s essential to know what to do, it’s equally important to understand what not to do:
Do not pull the tooth out forcefully.
Avoid excessive poking or prodding of the loose tooth.
Don’t worry too much if your child swallows a loose tooth; it’s not harmful.
Natural Remedies for Pain
Some children may experience mild discomfort or pain when a tooth is loose or falls out. You can consider these natural remedies to ease the discomfort:
Apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek for 15 minutes.
Offer a soft, cold treat like yogurt or a popsicle.
Encourage your child to rinse their mouth with saltwater (dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water).
How to Mark the Moment?
Many parents like to mark every milestone reached by their children, if this is your case here are some ideas for you:
Keep a Record: Many parents like to keep a record of their child’s lost baby teeth. You can create a special tooth fairy pillow or box where your child can place the tooth for the Tooth Fairy’s visit.
Celebrate the Moment: Losing a tooth is a big deal for a child, so celebrate the moment with a ceremony burning the tooth and pledging to take good care of the rest of their smile.
Schedule a Dental Check-Up
After your child loses a few baby teeth, it’s a good time to schedule a dental check-up with your pediatric dentist. They can assess your child’s oral development and ensure everything is on track.
Baby teeth do matter—a lot! Proper care of these teeth sets the stage for a lifetime of good oral health. As parents, it’s our responsibility to dispel myths and prioritize our children’s dental well-being from an early age. By understanding the importance of baby teeth and maintaining a healthy dental routine, we can ensure our children’s smiles remain bright and problem-free as they grow.
Remember, healthy baby teeth lead to healthy permanent teeth, and a lifetime of confident smiles for your child.
As parents, we wear many hats – from chef to chauffeur, teacher to therapist. But one role that often takes center stage is that of our child’s healthcare advocate. When it comes to your child’s dental health, early care, and guidance can set the stage for a lifetime of bright smiles and healthy teeth. In this article, we’ll explore the critical importance of early dental care for kids and provide you with practical tips, fun games, and tactics to make dental care easy for both you and your child.
Why Early Dental Care Matters
Early dental care isn’t just about preventing cavities; it’s about establishing lifelong oral hygiene habits and ensuring your child’s overall health and well-being. Here’s why it’s crucial:
Preventing Dental Issues: Starting early helps prevent common childhood dental problems like cavities and gum disease.
Pain Avoidance: Regular check-ups can catch issues before they become painful, preventing discomfort for your child.
Oral Health Education: Early visits teach your child the importance of oral health, setting the stage for a lifetime of responsible self-care.
Tips for Parents: Nurturing Healthy Smiles
When it comes to dental care, the early years are the most critical in setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Your guidance, along with regular dental check-ups, can make all the difference. In this section, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive set of tips to help you nurture those precious smiles, ensuring your child’s teeth stay strong and bright as they grow. From the importance of early dental visits to everyday strategies for maintaining oral health, these tips will equip you to be your child’s dental health champion.
Start Early: Schedule your child’s first dental appointment by their first birthday or when their first tooth emerges.
Regular Check-ups: Follow your dentist’s recommendations for check-up frequency. Typically, it’s every six months.
Set a good example: Allow your child to observe you while you brush and floss your teeth. Make it a fun family activity.
Choose the Right Toothpaste: For children under 2, use fluoride-free toothpaste. After 2, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
Proper Brushing Technique: Teach your child to brush in gentle, circular motions, covering all surfaces of their teeth. Monitor their brushing until they demonstrate effectiveness.
Flossing: Start flossing when your child’s teeth touch, usually around age 2-3.
Healthy Diet: Limit sugary snacks and drinks. Encourage fresh fruits, vegetables, and water.
Dental care need not be a dull chore; instead, it can become an enjoyable and educational experience for your little ones. In this section, we’ll explore inventive ways to make dental care a joyous part of your child’s daily routine.
From selecting the perfect toothbrush to turning brushing time into playtime, these tips and tricks will help you create a positive and engaging environment that makes dental care something your child looks forward to, not something they shy away from. Let’s transform the daily brush and floss routine into a delightful adventure that nurtures healthy smiles and fosters a lifelong love for oral health.
Toothbrush Selection: Let your child pick out their toothbrush, preferably one with their favorite cartoon character or color.
Brushing Songs: Play fun brushing songs to make the process more enjoyable and ensure they brush for the recommended two minutes.
Storytime Brushing: Combine brushing with storytelling. Create a fun narrative about their teeth getting strong and clean.
Sticker Charts: Create a sticker chart to reward consistent brushing and flossing habits.
Visit a Kid-Friendly Dentist: Choose a pediatric dentist who specializes in treating children and offers a kid-friendly environment.
Educational Apps and Videos: There are numerous educational apps and videos that make learning about dental care entertaining for kids.
Role Play: Play dentist and patient with your child’s toys, teaching them about dental instruments and check-ups.
You might be surprised to know that dental care for your child starts during pregnancy. Proper oral health during pregnancy not only supports the well-being of the expecting mother but also lays the foundation for the future dental health of the baby. Here’s what expectant parents need to know about the critical connection between pregnancy and their child’s oral health:
Maintain Your Own Oral Health: During pregnancy, hormonal changes can increase the risk of dental issues, such as gum disease and cavities. It’s vital for expectant mothers to maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and attending dental check-ups. Treating dental problems before birth reduces the chances of transmitting harmful bacteria to the baby.
Your Diet Matters: A balanced and nutritious diet is essential during pregnancy. It not only supports the overall health of the mother and baby but also plays a role in dental development. Ensure you’re consuming adequate calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients necessary for strong teeth and bones.
Avoid Certain Medications: Some medications, including certain antibiotics and dental treatments, may be best avoided during pregnancy. Always inform your dentist if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant so they can make appropriate recommendations.
Share Your Dental History: Inform your obstetrician and dentist about your dental history, including any dental issues or conditions. This ensures they can provide the best care and advice tailored to your unique needs.
Prevent Gum Disease: Gum disease has been linked to preterm birth and low birth weight. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are crucial during pregnancy to prevent or manage gum disease.
By prioritizing your own oral health during pregnancy and introducing your child to good oral hygiene practices from the very beginning, you can set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Dental care is not only a responsibility but also a gift you give your child that will last a lifetime.
Welcoming a new addition to the family is a moment of pure joy for parents, but as your little one grows, new milestones and challenges arise. One such milestone that often comes with its fair share of excitement and anxiety is your baby’s teething journey. Teething marks a significant developmental stage in your child’s life as those first tiny teeth start to emerge, but it can also be accompanied by discomfort and sleepless nights.
In this article, we will provide you with essential tips and valuable information to help you confidently navigate this teething phase. From recognizing the signs of teething to offering soothing remedies and addressing potential concerns, we aim to empower you to provide the best possible care for your teething baby.
Recognizing the Signs of Teething
Babies usually start teething around 6 months old. Some babies show signs of their first tooth at four months years old and others don’t show any signs until after 12 months old. There are also very rare cases of babies being born with their first teeth but most babies will develop a complete milk teeth denture by the time they are three years old.
As your baby’s teeth begin to push through the gums, they may exhibit certain signs that indicate teething is underway. These can include increased drooling, irritability, chewing on objects, swollen or tender gums, disrupted sleep patterns, touching their face constantly, pulling on their ear, a slight increase in body temperature, a rash of the face, flush on the cheek on the side of the face where the tooth is coming out. Understanding these signs can help you differentiate between teething discomfort and other possible causes, enabling you to provide the appropriate support.
If you are still breastfeeding your baby when they start this process, try to offer them a chewing toy sometime before their feeding time and you can always use your finger before feeding to check if they are in the mood of latching or chewing.
Soothing Techniques and Remedies
There are various safe and effective methods to alleviate your baby’s teething discomfort. One popular approach is providing a clean and chilled teething ring or a damp washcloth for them to gnaw on. The gentle pressure and coolness can help soothe sore gums. Additionally, using your clean finger to massage your baby’s gums can provide temporary relief. It’s important to avoid using teething gels that contain benzocaine or other numbing agents, as they can be harmful to infants.
Every baby is different, so what might work for your friend’s baby might not always work in the same way for your baby and that is ok. Some other ideas to try are:
Try to put a pacifier or baby ring in the fridge, cold yet not frozen.
You can give them a sippy cup with cool water, only if the baby is older than 6 months.
You can cut fruit and veggies, like melon for your baby to chew on.
Give your baby a cool metal spoon for them to suck on.
A warm bath can help your child relax and manage the uneasiness in a better way.
If the discomfort continues, and you get the green light from their pediatrician, you can provide your child with baby acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
If all fails, remember that during this period of changes and restlessness for your baby, there is no better remedy than receiving your love and attention, so don’t be shy on turn on the snuggles and cuddles with your child. Nothing is more healing and reassuring as love, especially coming from their main take caregivers.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
Even before the first tooth emerges, it’s crucial to establish good oral hygiene practices; in fact, it is recommended for parents to bring their baby to the Pediatric Dentist while breastfeeding – you can read more about the benefits of doing so here. Wiping your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeding can help remove bacteria and prevent gum irritation. Once the first tooth appears, you can start using a soft-bristled infant toothbrush with a rice grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Regular brushing, even with just one tooth, helps instill healthy habits and protects emerging teeth from decay.
If you implement games and music while you do these practices you can create a beautiful and fun family/play time for your kid, making dental care something that is part of their routine in an enjoyable way.
Common Concerns and When to Seek Professional Advice
Teething is a natural process, but it’s common for parents to have concerns along the way. One frequent worry is the timing of tooth eruption. Remember, every child is unique, and the order and pace of tooth eruption can vary. However, if your baby hasn’t shown any signs of teething by their first birthday, it’s advisable to consult a pediatric dentist. Similarly, if you notice any severe symptoms like a high fever or diarrhea, it’s essential to seek professional advice to rule out other potential causes.
If you see any signs of bleeding on your baby’s gums, we alert you to get an appointment with a pediatric dentist as soon as possible to make sure the bleeding is not a symptom of gum disease or any other dental issue. Likewise, if your baby’s temperature continues for three days in a row or this fever is accompanied by other symptoms, like not wanting to feed or constant diarrhea, you should visit your pediatrician to make sure there is not an ear infection, or a bacterial or viral issue happening besides the teething.
By being well-informed about the teething process and armed with practical strategies, you can help ease your baby’s discomfort and make the teething journey a smoother one for both of you. Remember, patience, love, and consistent care are key during this phase. Celebrate each new tooth as a sign of growth and embrace the beautiful smile that awaits your little one at the end of this teething adventure.
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