What should I use to clean my baby's teeth?
A
toothbrush will remove plaque bacteria that can lead to decay. Any soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, preferably
one designed specifically for infants, should be used at least once a day at bedtime.
Toothpaste: when should we begin using it and how much?
Fluoridated toothpaste should be introduced when a child is 2-3
years of age. Prior to that, parents should clean the child's teeth with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. When toothpaste
is used after age 2-3, parents should supervise brushing and make sure the child uses no more than a pea-sized amount on the
brush. Children should spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing.
How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride?
Have your pediatric dentist evaluate the fluoride
level of your child's primary source of drinking water. If your child is not getting enough fluoride internally through water
(especially if the fluoride level is deficient or if your child drinks bottled water without fluoride), then your pediatric
dentist may prescribe fluoride supplements.
More: Fluoride
How do I make my child's
diet safe for his teeth?
Make
sure your child has a balanced diet, including one serving each of: fruits and vegetables, breads and cereals, milk and dairy
products, and meat fish and eggs. Limiting the servings of sugars and starches will also aid in protecting your child's teeth
from decay. You can also ask your pediatric dentist to help you select foods that protect your children's teeth.
More: Diet Counseling
Are thumbsucking and pacifier habits harmful for a child's teeth?
Thumb and pacifier sucking
habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long period of time. Most children stop these habits
on their own, but if they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers when the permanent teeth arrive, a mouth appliance may
be recommended by your pediatric dentist.
More: Harmful Oral Habits
What should I do if my child has a toothache?
First, rinse the irritated area with warm salt
water and place a cold compress on the face if it is swollen. Give the child acetaminophen for any pain, rather than placing
aspirin on the teeth or gums. Finally, see a dentist as soon as possible.
More: Dental Emergencies
What should I do if my child knocks out a permanent tooth?
The most important thing
to do is to remain calm. Then find the tooth. Hold it by the crown rather than the root and try to reinsert it in the socket.
If that is not possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and take your child and the glass immediately to the pediatric dentist.
More: Dental Emergencies
What can I do to protect
my child's teeth during sporting events?
Soft plastic mouthguards can be used to protect a child's teeth, lips, cheeks and gums from sport related injuries.
A custom-fitted mouthguard developed by a pediatric dentist will protect your child from injuries to the teeth, face and even
provide protection from severe injuries to the head.
More: Mouth Guards
How often does my child
need to see the pediatric dentist?
A check-up every six months is recommended in order prevent cavities and other dental problems. However, your pediatric
dentist can tell you when and how often your child should visit based on their personal oral health.
More: Regular Dental Exams
How do dental sealants work?
Sealants work by filling in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This shuts out food particles that
could get caught in the teeth, causing cavities. The application is fast and comfortable and can effectively protect teeth
for many years.
More: Dental Sealants
How safe are dental X-rays?
There is very little risk in dental X-rays. Pediatric
dentists are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which children are exposed. Lead aprons and high-speed
film are used to ensure safety and minimize the amount of radiation.
More: Dental X-rays
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