PEDODONTICS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

ARE BABY TEETH REALLY THAT IMPORTANT TO MY CHILD ?

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.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY CHILD HAS A TOOTH ACHE ?

First, rinse the irritated area with warm salt water and place a cold compress on the face if it is swollen. Give the child acetaminophen for any pain, rather than placing aspirin on the teeth or gums. Finally, see a dentist as soon as possible.

HOW CAN I PREVENT DECAY CAUSED BY BOTTLE MILK ?

Avoid nursing children to sleep or putting anything other than water in their bed-time bottle. Also, learn the proper way to brush and floss your child’s teeth. Take your child to a pediatric dentist regularly to have his/her teeth and gums checked. The first dental visit should be scheduled by your child’s first birthday.

HOW OFTEN DOES MY CHILD NEED TO SEE THE PEDIATRIC DENTIST ?

A check-up every six months is recommended in order to prevent cavities and other dental problems. However, your pediatric dentist can tell you when and how often your child should visit based on their personal oral health.

WHEN SHOULD I TAKE MY CHILD TO THE DENTIST FOR FIRST CHECKUP ?

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.

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.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A PEDIATRIC DENTIST AND 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.

TOOTHPASTE: WHEN SHOULD WE BEGIN USING IT AND HOW MUCH SHOULD WE USE ?

Fluoridated toothpaste should be introduced when a child is 2-3 years of age. Prior to that, parents should clean the child’s teeth with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Children should spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing

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