Pediatric Dentistry
At the first visit, depending upon the needs and age of the child, they may get their teeth cleaned, fluoride applied to the teeth, an examination by Dr. Lynch, and any appropriate x-rays will be taken. Be assured, we use the latest equipment and techniques to minimize exposure. Any and all questions you may have about your child (children) will be answered at this time. By two years of age, 10% of children have decay and 40% by age four. It is very important to have early and regular dental visits beginning at 12 months of age. One
A recent national study found that parents are not paying enough attention to their kids’ brushing and flossing routine.
Here are some tips from an expert:
Start with using the correct size soft bristle brush. First, hold the brush at a 45-degree angle so that the bristles point toward your gum, which helps clean along the gum line where plaque builds up. Then, move the brush in small circles as you clean each tooth individually, which ensures that you give each special tooth special attention! Be sure to brush the insides as well as the outside of each tooth.
Tilt the toothbrush vertically when cleaning the insides of your front teeth, both top and bottom. Brush the biting surfaces of your teeth with a back and forth motion, which will help get all the decay bugs and gunk. Last, brush your tongue! Note that children up to age 5 or 6 don’t have the dexterity of an adult and need an easier brushing technique. We recommend the “scrub technique” where all the tooth surfaces are cleaned with a small circular motion with the bristles of the toothbrush.
Frequently asked questions regarding pediatric dentistry:
How often should my children brush?
Children should be brushing twice a day, optimally before bed and after breakfast. If there’s a history of decay, they should brush after snacks, too.
How often should we change toothbrushes?
The AAPD recommends getting a new toothbrush every three or four months. However, if the bristles become splayed, they no longer do the right cleaning job, so change sooner. Also, get a new brush after a cold or virus to avoid spreading those germs.
How do I know if my child is doing a good job brushing?
Most people (adults included) miss the outside of the upper molars at the gum line and the lower molars next to the tongue. Children also tend to miss the facial areas, and the resulting dull, dingy look is probably plaque.
When do you use x-rays and are they harmful?
We use x-rays to diagnose dental disease between the teeth and to look for misplaced, extra or missing teeth. X-rays are not harmful, with the use of digital radiography and collimators, the amount of exposure is reduced. Children who are not at risk for numerous cavities will have x-rays annually. In fact most people are exposed to more radiation on a daily basis from the sun and cell phones. f
How often should my child visit the dentist?
Your child should visit the dentist twice a year (every six months).
When should my newborn have his/her first dental visit?
A baby should have their first visit at age 12 months.
How can I prevent my child from getting cavities?
Cavities can't be prevented in some cases due to enamel defects and hereditary predisposition. But your child's chances of getting a cavity can be decreased by reducing sugar intake (fruit juices, carbohydrates) and regular visits to the dentist. You may also apply a topical fluoride, which may be purchased over the counter (ACT) or by prescription.
What is baby bottle tooth decay?
Baby bottle tooth decay or nursing bottle caries occurs when a baby is allowed to fed throughout the night from a bottle, sippy cup or breast. The upper front teeth are usually the only teeth affected. The lower teeth are usually spared because of protection from the tongue. This type of decay process can be prevented by placing only water in the bottle/sippy cup or cleaning the mouth after breast feeding.
What's the best toothpaste for my child?
The best toothpaste for your child is any toothpaste that is ADA approved and has fluoride. Any child three years of age or under should use a training toothpaste or cleansing gel, which contain no fluoride. Younger children can't adequately spit and may ingest fluoride which is harmful over a period of time.
Should my child drink only bottled water?
Your child doesn't have to drink just bottled water. In fact it's best if they don't, because most bottled water doesn't contain fluoride, which is important for developing teeth. However, if you cook with tap water your child should receive adequate fluoride in their blood stream.
Does the office follow strict infection and sterilization protocols?
The office follows all infection and sterilization protocols. All instruments are sterilized and we use disposable products, whenever possible.
First Aid for Dental Emergencies
Toothache - Clean the area around the sore tooth thoroughly. Rinse the mouth vigorously with warm salt water or use dental floss to dislodge trapped food or debris. DO NOT place aspirin on the gum or on the aching tooth. If face is swollen, apply a cold compress. Take acetaminophen for pain and call the office for an appointment as soon as possible.
Broken Tooth - Rinse the dirt from injured area with warm water. Place cold compress over the face in the area of the injury. Locate and save any broken tooth fragments. Call the office immediately.
Knocked Out Permanent Tooth - Find the tooth. Handle the tooth by the top (crown), not the root portion. You may rinse the tooth, but DO NOT clean or handle the tooth unnecessarily. Try to reinsert it in its socket. Have the child hold the tooth in place by biting on a clean gauze or cloth. If you cannot reinsert the tooth, transport the tooth in a cup containing milk or water. Call the office immediately. Time is a critical factor in saving the tooth.
Cut or Bitten Tongue, Lip or Cheek - Apply ice to bruised areas. If there is any bleeding, apply firm but gentle pressure with a clean gauze or cloth. If bleeding does not stop after 15 minutes or it cannot be controlled by simple pressure, take the child to a hospital emergency room.
