What should I use to clean my baby's teeth?
Use an infant tooth brush with soft bristles or a cloth with water to rinse your child’s gums after meals, or at least once a day before bedtime.
When should I take my child to the dentist for the first check-up?
After your child has a tooth that breaks through the gums, or before their first birthday to ensure they have the best possible care and a head start to great lifelong oral health.
What should I do if my child has a toothache?
Have your child gargle or rinse their mouth warm salter water focusing on the area where they are experiencing the most pain. Use a cold compress or ice pack to reduce swelling, if necessary. Call Waco Kids Dental to schedule an appointment. Even if you don’t believe your child’s toothache is serious, there may be underlying issues that could cause problems if left untreated.
Are thumb sucking and pacifier habits harmful for a child's teeth?
Generally thumb or pacifier sucking stops as your child develops and begins to build confidence, but for those who continue the habit past the age of 4 or 5 or for children who are aggressively sucking, a dental appliance may be recommended to help break the habit and protect your child’s developing smile.
How often does my child need to see the pediatric dentist?
Just like adults, children should visit the dentist every six months for a regular checkup and cleaning. This helps us spot any warning signs of dental concerns early and treat them effectively before they can cause long term damage.
When should my child start using toothpaste, how much should he use, and what fluoride content is recommended?
As soon as your child has at least one erupted tooth, you should begin brushing twice a day. Use a small smear about the size of a grain of rice of adult or children’s fluoride toothpaste with between 1000 and 1100 ppm of fluoride. Make sure to carefully avoid allowing your child to swallow even a small amount of toothpaste. Use a pea-size amount of fluoride tooth paste for kids from 2 to 6 years old. Monitor your child’s tooth brushing closely to ensure he thoroughly cleans his teeth, and that only minimal amounts of toothpaste are ingested.
How can parents help prevent tooth decay?
Great lifelong oral health starts at home. One of the best ways parents can help their children avoid tooth decay is by setting a good example. Make sure your own at home dental hygiene plan is thorough and effective. Schedule regular six month dental checkup and hygiene appointments for your child so we can monitor and diagnose any concerns early. Work with our dentist to develop an at home care plan that meets your child’s specific oral health needs.
How do dental sealants work?
Dental sealants applied to your child’s teeth after a cleaning help protect their teeth from decay causing bacteria by sealing the tooth. Think about a long lasting wax for your car. A sealant repels bacteria like that, making it difficult for them to bond with your child’s teeth.
What should I do if my child falls and knocks out a permanent tooth?
Don’t panic. Stay calm to help reduce your child’s stress. Rinse the tooth and the vacated tooth socket of blood and any other foreign matter. To keep the tooth safe, handle it by the biting surface only – never the roots. You’ll need to keep the tooth moist until you get to the dentist. The best way to do this is to replace it in the socket and hold it in place by biting down on sterile gauze. If this is not possible, have your child hold the tooth between her gums and cheek, or place the tooth in a glass of whole milk. Call us immediately, and we will fit you in as soon as possible so we can attempt to save the tooth.
