Top Ten Questions About Childrens Oral Health
- At what age should I bring my child to the dentist?
As early as a year old, or when the first tooth comes in. This will enable your child to get used to going to the dentist, and the dentist can monitor the growth of your child's teeth. - Until what age should I be brushing my child's teeth?
Continue brushing his or her teeth until your child is between 8 and 10 years old. This will allow you to ensure that your child's teeth are being taken care of properly. - When should my child begin to floss?
As soon as the teeth begin touching each other, or you can begin earlier-- approximately 4 years old so that your child will be accustomed to having his or her teeth flossed. - When should I change to fluoride toothpaste?
Your child can use Fluoride toothpaste once he or she is able to spit. - What is the benefit of a professional fluoride treatment at the dentist?
The professional fluoride stays on your child's teeth a lot longer than the over the counter rinses, and has the ability to "recharge the teeth with fluoride ions" which helps to strengthens them. - Is it normal for permanent teeth to come in before baby teeth are lost?
Yes, some children may have their six year old molar begin to erupt before they loose the lower or upper front baby teeth; these teeth should be lost shortly after eruption of the adult molars. - Is it normal for the adult teeth to be darker than the baby teeth?
Yes, the adult teeth are generally a darker shade than the baby teeth; when they are next to each other, the adult teeth will seem even darker next to the much whiter baby teeth. - Why should we fix cavities on baby teeth?
The baby teeth are the main space holders for the adult teeth and allowing decay to remain on the baby teeth may not only cause pain and infection and lead to premature loss of the baby teeth, but also may cause damage to the adult teeth. - What should I do if my child had an accident and he knocks out a permanent tooth?
If the child knocks out a permanent tooth, attempt to replace the tooth in the socket as soon as possible and call your dentist to have your child seen as soon as possible. - What should I do if my child had an accident and he knocks out a baby tooth?
Call your child's dentist as soon as possible and follow the directions that you are given.
