| 1. Why worry about baby teeth when they fall out anyway? 2. What should I do if my child falls and knocks out a permanent tooth? 3. What should I use to clean my baby's teeth? 4. When should I take my child to the dentist for the first check-up? 5. What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a family dentist? 6. How do dental sealants work? 7. How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride? 8. What can I do to protect my child's teeth during sporting events? 9. How often does my child need to see the pediatric dentist? Why worry about baby teeth when they fall out anyway? Primary, or "baby," teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt. back to questions What should I do if my child falls and 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. back to questions 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. back to questions Why worry about baby teeth when they fall out anyway? Primary, or "baby," teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt. back to questions When should I take my child to the dentist for the first check-up? In order to prevent dental problems, your child should see a pediatric dentist when the first tooth appears, or no later than his/her first birthday. back to questions What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a family dentist? Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. A pediatric dentist has two to three years specialty training following dental school and limits his/her practice to treating children only. Pediatric dentists are primary and specialty oral care providers for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health needs. General Dentists typically do not take the same approach as the SPECIALIZED Pediatric Dentist. back to questions 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. back to questions 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. back to questions 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. back to questions How often does my child need to see the pediatric dentist? Primary, or "baby," teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt. back to questions |