Why should baby teeth be fixed if they are going to fall out anyway?

Baby teeth stay around longer than most people realize. While the front teeth start to fall out around age 6, the baby molars stay in the mouth for much longer, all the way into pre-teen years! They are super important in not only eating and chewing, but they also save the space for the adult teeth when they are ready to come in. Leaving cavities untreated in baby teeth can lead to pain, early tooth loss, space loss, and more seriously, infection.

What should I do if my child has a toothache?

A toothache could be caused by many different things. Call your pediatric dentist and visit the office promptly. Over-the-counter children’s pain medication, dosed according to your child’s weight and age, might ease the symptoms until your child can be evaluated.

What should I do if my child’s PERMANENT tooth is knocked out?

Find the tooth and rinse it gently in cool water (do NOT scrub the tooth or use soap). If possible, replace the tooth in the socket immediately and hold it there with clean gauze or a wash cloth. If you cannot replant the tooth, place the tooth in a clean container with cold milk, saliva, or water. Go to the office immediately if within office hours, otherwise proceed to your nearest emergency room. The faster you act, the better your chances of saving the tooth.

If a BABY tooth is knocked out, it should NOT be replanted because of possible damage to the developing permanent tooth. Contact the office as soon as possible to make an appointment for evaluation.

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 digital sensors are used to ensure safety and minimize the amount of radiation.

How can parents help prevent tooth decay?

Parents should take their children to the dentist regularly, beginning with the eruption of the first tooth. Then, the dentist can recommend a specific program of brushing, flossing, and other treatments for parents to supervise and teach their children. These home treatments, when added to regular dental visits and a balanced diet, will help give your child a lifetime of healthy habits.

Toothpaste: when should we begin using it and how much should we use?

The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush or cloth and water. Parents should use a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste to brush baby teeth twice daily as soon as they erupt and a soft, age-appropriate sized toothbrush. Once children are 3 to 6 years old, the amount should be increased to a pea-size and you should perform or assist your child’s toothbrushing. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively. Children should spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing.