This article is loaded with great info! Our Sunshine Team has put together a list of the most common questions we receive from parents. Read below for our response. Have a question to we may be able to answer? Reach out to us! We are happy to be an ongoing resource for you!
HOW OLD SHOULD A CHILD BE TO GO TO THE DENTIST?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends bringing your child to a pediatric dentist for a routine dental exam before celebrating their first birthday. Make an appointment with us when baby's teeth begin to emerge, which usually takes place around 6 months of age. Sunshine Children’s Dentistry welcomes children of all ages, including newborns.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING TEETHING?
Teething symptoms can vary from child to child. Some babies experience tenderness, fussiness, drooling, and minor appetite loss starting as early as 3 months of age. However, some babies do not display much teething discomfort. Teeth will continue to emerge through age 3.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A CHILD’S FIRST DENTAL APPOINTMENT?
During your first visit, your child will be introduced to the dental environment at his/her own pace. A thorough examination will be performed, a cleaning, and necessary x-rays will be taken. This all depends on your child's behavior, which will determine how much is accomplished at each visit. Our main goal is for a positive experience, and we will adjust our approach specifically for your child. The results of the exam and x-rays will be discussed with you, a treatment plan will be determined, appointments will be scheduled, and financial arrangements will be made. If this is an emergency visit, the immediate problem will be addressed, and routine procedures will be postponed.
WHAT HAPPENS AT FUTURE DENTAL APPOINTMENTS?
Along with checking your child’s growth and changes, and providing a routine deep cleaning, we also can provide a variety of comprehensive pediatric dental services. Anything additional will be discussed with you, so that you are aware of our recommendations. Our services include:
Infant Oral Care (visit page >)
1st Dental Visit (visit page >)
Routine Cleanings
Fissure Sealants
Dental Restoration
Appliances
Space Maintainers (to save room for adult teeth)
X Rays
Full Mouth Rehabilitation
WHAT CAUSES CAVITIES?
Dental Caries, which causes cavities, is the most prevalent disease in both adults and children, even though it is somewhat preventable. Caries is caused by germs, which are easy to spread, especially through anything that involves exchange of saliva. The acid produced by these bacteria leads to the breakdown of your teeth. Even a baby tooth, if left untreated, can damage an adult tooth before it has the chance to emerge.
CAN CAVITIES BE PREVENTED?
* Food to Limit: Sugars, cookies, crackers, chips, sodas, juice, and sports drinks. If you choose to consume these, it is best to eat them during mealtime than as stacks between meals.
* Activities to Limit: Try to prevent the spread of saliva, as that is a common way to introduce new bacteria into your children's mouth. Do NOT share feeding utensils, "clean" bottles or pacifiers in your mouth, or store toothbrushes where they will touch one another.
* Activities to Keep: Maintaining good oral health habits goes a long way. Brush twice daily and floss each day. Rinse your mouth with water after eating. Stay up to date with your dental appointments by scheduling them semiannually. And feel free to ask questions at your dental appointments! We are happy to answer any concerns you may have.
WILL MY CHILD NEED A FILLING?
There are a few considerations. Is your child complaining of toothaches, headaches, or having difficulty chewing food on one side? If so, make an appointment with your pediatric dentist right away. Our dentists at Sunshine Children's Dentistry will be able to give further instruction on treatment and whether a filling is necessary. Even minor tooth decay should be closely monitored. Unless the baby tooth is on the verge of naturally falling out, our dentists will offer you a customized care plan. It is important to care for baby teeth the same way you would with permanent adult teeth.
DO CAVITY FILLINGS HURT?
While we at Sunshine Children's Dentistry want to make your child as comfortable as possible, there still can be some mild discomfort during a filling. We provide numbing to the region and can even administer laughing gas. We are able to offer N2O (Nitrous Oxide for safe inpatient sedation) and Outpatient Hospital Sedation when required. In addition, we often have televisions in the patient rooms, so they can enjoy a children’s film during their appointment. Our goal is to work WITH the child at their pace.
WILL MY CHILD’S MOUTH BE NUMB AFTER A CAVITY FILLING?
Your child may experience numbness, mild tenderness, and tingling in the region of their filling immediately after their procedure. It should fully diminish within a few hours.
YOU ARE TREATED LIKE FAMILY HERE.
Growing up with big families and/or having children of our own, our Sunshine Team knows how parents and patients want to be treated. We are both careful and caring with your precious little ones, creating a safe and happy environment for your family. Thank you for the opportunity and honor of serving your family. It brings us smiles to care for your smiles!
The Sunshine Children's Dentistry LOVES our patients! Your family is a blessing to everyone at our office. If you ever need to reach us, our number is 910.762.7736.
For more helpful resources and fun activities, be sure to read our other Blog Articles.
