Using family dentistry services from an early age is a part of developing healthy teeth and gums that last a lifetime. The habits formed in childhood build a foundation that will persist into the teenage years – and into adulthood. But with the many changes that occur during childhood, it’s natural that parents have questions about a child’s oral health. At Shining Smiles Family Dentistry in Marietta, we are here to assist parents at every stage of their child’s life.
Parents want the best for their kids. Plain and simple. That goes for getting the best dental care possible to promote a lifetime of healthy teeth. But in those early days of becoming a new mom or a new dad, parents are oftentimes overwhelmed with the amount of questions they need answered. Let us help you!
10 Common Questions Parents Ask About Their Kid’s Teeth
1. When should I start taking my child to the dentist?
The first dentist appointment should occur shortly after your child’s first birthday or when he/she gets their first tooth. Speak to your dentist about when your child should get their teeth cleaned. The treatment sometimes occurs on the second visit (though it can occur later).
2. When will my baby’s teeth come in?
Your baby’s teeth will come in at different times. When you click on this page, you’ll see an image showing when you could expect each tooth to erupt.
3. How should I clean my baby’s teeth?
You should use a soft-bristled toothbrush made specifically for young children at least once a day at bedtime. When your baby is an infant, you can use a soft, damp washcloth or an infant toothbrush to gently wipe the gums and teeth at least one time per day at bedtime.
4. My baby is teething. What should I do?
Your baby’s gums may be sore, tender or painful while teeth are erupting. There are many things you can do for teething.
- Gently rub your baby’s gums with a clean finger or a clean piece of wet gauze to relieve some soreness.
- Give your baby safe teething toys or a teething ring. Some babies like it when the teething ring is cold so place it in the fridge before giving it to him/her.
- You can try giving your baby homeopathic remedies for teething (i.e. Boiron® brand) but consult with your baby’s pediatrician first.
- Consult with your baby’s pediatrician before giving any teething medication.
5. How can parents help kids prevent tooth decay (cavities)?
According to the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child should take care of their teeth by doing the following:
- Brush his/her teeth two times a day, preferably with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss his/her teeth on a daily basis.
- Eat lots of vegetables and limit sugary beverages and snacks.
- See his/her family dentist or pediatric dentist on a consistent basis for prevention and treatment of oral problems.
6. I heard about dental sealants. How do dental sealants work?
A dental sealant acts as a shield that protects your teeth on a daily basis against tooth decay and gum disease. Actually, the American Dental Association (ADA) claims that sealants reduce the risk of tooth decay by nearly 80%.
How are dental sealants applied? Applying sealants is a quick and painless process. The dentist will add a gel substance to the teeth. The gel will quickly bond to the tooth to create, you guessed it, a seal.
7. What do I do if my young child falls and knocks out a permanent tooth?
The first thing to do is to stay calm. If your child seems upset and in pain, try to calm him/her down. Then you should find the tooth. When you find it, hold it by the crown instead of the root and try to gently reinsert it back in the socket. If you cannot do that, put the tooth in a glass of cold milk and call the dentist for an emergency appointment (don’t forget to take the tooth with you to the appointment).
8. How can my older kids take care of their teeth while away at college?
Laying the groundwork early on will help your college-age kids stay in the routine of brushing and flossing regularly. But how else can college students care for their teeth while living on their own in the dorms or an apartment?
Visit our recent blog post explaining 7 ways that young adults can take care of their teeth while in college.
9. What is a family dentist?
A family dentist provides care for a wide range of dental issues under one roof for ALL of your family members! You won’t have to drive through traffic to opposite ends of town to take your three kids to their dental appointments.
And at Shining Smiles in Marietta, GA, you’re going to be treated like one of our own family members. So welcome to the family!
10. Are dental x-rays safe?
Today’s digital dental x-rays are much, much safer than many years ago. We know you’re concerned about overexposing your kids to high amounts of radiation.
Well, when you choose a dentist who uses digital dental x-rays (like Shining Smiles), you can feel comfortable knowing your child won’t be exposed to high levels of radiation.
Top Tips to Help Care for Your Child’s Teeth
Parents have many questions about their child’s teeth, and it isn’t always easy to know what to do during a child’s developmental phases. The following tips can help build good oral health for a lifetime, and your dentist can always give advice on best practices during scheduled visits.
- Start a regular dental routine early.
- Demonstrate proper brushing techniques.
- Schedule regular dental visits to identify poor oral health early.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks.
- Ask your dentist about protective dental sealants.
- Speak to your dentist about sedation dentistry if your child has a dental fear.
Marietta’s Best Choice for Children’s Dental Checkups and Treatment
Shining Smiles Family Dentistry provides comprehensive oral exams, dental sealants and other treatments for Marietta children. For a family dentist you can trust, contact our team today. Call (770) 420-8550 or request an appointment now.
