Pediatric dentistry
Although they don’t last as long as permanent teeth, your child’s first teeth play an important role in his development. While they’re in place, these primary teeth help your little one speak, smile and chew properly. They also hold space in the jaw for permanent teeth. If a child loses a tooth too early (due to damage or decay) nearby teeth may encroach on that space, which can result in crooked or misplaced permanent teeth. Also, your child’s general health is affected by the oral health of the teeth and gums.
A child’s first visit to the dentist should be enjoyable. Our doctors make a special effort to use pleasant, non-frightening, simple words to describe each treatment. We want you and your child to feel at ease from the moment your family arrives at our office. The more you and your child know about the first visit, the better you will feel.
Getting your child started with a positive first experience with the dentist is very important, so we take extra time to make sure they are comfortable. We examine the development of their teeth; look for signs of decay, crowding of teeth, gum disease and other child specific problems caused by thumb sucking, etc.
- Our dentists also can advise you about:Tooth Development
- What to do about teeth grinding or finger, thumb or pacifier sucking
- How to protect a child’s teeth during sports activities
- How often to brush your child’s teeth
- The role fluoride plays in preventing cavities
- When a child should start using toothpaste and when to floss
- The foods to avoid to prevent decay, such a juice boxes and sugary foods
You and your child will have everything explained in words your child can understand, and we’ll do everything we can to make the visit relaxed and enjoyable. You can be sure the dentist will take the time your child needs to be comfortable. Personal attention is why we are here.
What’s the best way to clean my baby’s teeth?
Even before your baby’s first tooth appears, we recommend you clean his gums after feedings with a damp, soft washcloth.
Somewhere between month six and month twelve of your baby’s life, you’ll experience the pangs of cutting teeth. Your baby may be fussy when cutting teeth, but you can help ease his pains by massaging his gums with a damp cloth or your clean finger. Many parents find that their babies get relief through teething toys. As soon as his first tooth appears, you can start using a toothbrush. Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head. Don’t use fluoride toothpaste until your child turns two. Bringing your baby in at this age will set a life time of healthy oral care in motion.
Once your baby’s teeth come in, keep an eye on them. Specifically watch for any lines that may appear or any changes in the color of the tooth, as these symptoms could mean decay. Brush your baby’s teeth after each meal or feeding and then again before bed.
Visiting the Dentist Routinely
Sugars stay in your baby’s mouth from food and beverages. These sugars, if not removed, turn into acids. These acids can attack and decay your baby’s teeth. Primary teeth have higher risks of deterioration, as children don’t always brush and floss when they’re supposed to. Proper brushing and flossing routines combined with regular dental visits help keep tooth decay away.
Bring your child to the dentist twice a year for cleanings and examinations. We suggest cleanings and fluoride treatments every six months to keep your child’s smile healthy and resilient. Tooth sealants are also recommended because they “seal” the deep grooves in your child’s teeth, preventing decay from forming in these hard-to-reach areas. Sealants last for several years, but will be monitored at your regular checkups.
Sealants
For some patients, routine brushing and flossing may not be sufficient to fight against tooth decay. Some places in our mouths are tough to brush, and some teeth have ridges and grooves that trap food and bacteria. Sealants can help fortify your teeth against those tiny hazards, and thus you can enjoy a cavity-free smile.
Sealants are simply pieces of plastic resin that adhere to the ridges along the top of your tooth. Sealants cover the pits and fissures in teeth that are difficult to brush and form a smoother surface on your tooth, making brushing easier. We recommend sealants as a safe, simple way to help your child avoid cavities, especially for molars, which are hardest to reach.
Normally sealants are used to safeguard newly erupted teeth against tooth decay, and thus many children receive dental sealants. But dental sealants aren’t only for kids; adults can enjoy the protective benefits of sealants as long as their teeth are healthy. Your dentist will suggest sealants if they fit your oral needs. Otherwise, feel free to ask your dentist how they’d work for you.
Most sealants last between three and five years, but some adults have sealants that were applied decades ago. Only fully bonded sealants protect your teeth, so if your sealant comes loose call your dentist to repair it.
CONTACT US!
If you have any questions, please email us or call our office directly. We look forward to seeing you in our Belgrade Studiodent office and helping to improve your health and well-being.
Please call our office at +381 64 199 4749 or +381 11 324 1689 for any questions or to schedule an appointment.
