Kids Corner

KidsCorner1Having healthy teeth as a child is the foundation for having a healthy mouth as an adult. Here are some frequently asked questions.

When Do Baby Teeth Erupt?

We generally start to see teeth around 6 months of age. However, some babies are born with teeth and others may not have teeth until after 1 year of age. Baby teeth will continue to erupt until around 24 months of age. There are a total of 20 primary, “baby” teeth.

When Should Your Child Have His/Her First Dental Check-up?

It is recommended a child visit the dentist around his/her 1st birthday. At this appointment we will do a brief oral exam and answer any questions you may have.

How Can You Help Prevent Cavities?

Oral Hygiene – Removing bacterial plaque effectively will prevent tooth decay. We give oral hygiene tips to all of our patients and recommend brushing and flossing twice a day. With younger children, we recommend parental supervision during brushing and flossing.

Diet – Limiting the amount and frequency of food and drinks loaded with sugar will limit tooth decay. (Examples: chocolate milk, juices, tea, soft drinks, candy, etc.)

Fluoride – Flouride toothpaste, mouthwash, and in-office treatments strengthen enamel and slow down the bacteria that cause cavities.

Sealants – Sealing the natural grooves in the teeth can prevent decay.

Cleanings and Regular dental check-ups

What is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?

This is a rampant form of tooth decay seen in babies that go to sleep with bottles filled with sugary drinks. Sipping on the bottles throughout the night bathes the teeth in sugar and may lead to severe tooth decay. We only recommend water if your child sleeps with a bottle.

When Do Permanent Teeth Come In?

Children begin to lose primary teeth and transition to the permanent dentition around 6 years of age. They continue to lose baby teeth and add permanent teeth until around 13 years of age (with the exception of wisdom teeth). Regular dental check-ups are important during this transition phase to follow your child’s growth and development. We will help coordinate care with orthodontic specialists if needed.

How To Protect Teeth During Sports Activities?

Mouth guards help protect the teeth and jaws from sports-related injuries. There is a wide variety of mouth guards available and picking the right one can make a difference.

Resources

www.mychildrensteeth.org
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry: www.aapd.org
American Dental Association: www.ada.org (public resource section)