Pediatric Dental FAQs
We specialize in pediatric dentistry, which means our focus is on treating infants, children, and adolescents. Below are common questions and our answers about the best way to care for children’s teeth.
When should I schedule my child’s first visit to the dentist?
We recommend that you make an appointment to see the dentist as soon as your child gets his first tooth. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child is seen by six months after his/her first tooth erupts or by one year old, whichever is first.
How is a pediatric dentist different from other dentists?
All dental specialists (pediatric dentists, orthodontists, oral surgeons, and others) begin by completing dental school, then continue their education with several years of additional, specialized training. During training in the field of pediatric dentistry, Dr. Cooper gained extensive knowledge and experience in treating infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatric dentists enjoy working with children, and bring to each patient our expertise in childhood development and behavior. Because our office is geared toward young visitors, you’ll find that our staff, as well as our office design, decorations and activities, all work together to provide an especially friendly and comfortable environment for children.
What happens during my child’s first visit to the dentist?
The first visit is usually short and simple. In most cases, we focus on getting to know your child and giving you some basic information about dental care. Dr. Cooper will check your child’s teeth for placement and health, and look for any potential problems with the gums and jaw. We may do a bit of cleaning. We will also answer any questions you have about how to care for your child’s teeth as they develop, and provide you with materials containing helpful tips that you can refer to at home.
How can I prepare my child for his first dental appointment?
The best preparation for your child’s first visit to our office is maintaining a positive attitude. Children pick up on adults’ apprehensions and if you make negative comments about trips to the dentist, you can be sure that your child will fear an unpleasant experience and act accordingly. Show your child the pictures of the office and staff on the website. Let your child know that it’s important to keep his teeth and gums healthy, and that the doctor will help him do that. Remember that your pediatric dentist is specially trained to handle fears and anxiety, and our staff excels at putting children at ease during treatment.
How often should my child visit the dentist?
We generally recommend scheduling check-ups every six months. Depending on the circumstances of your child’s oral health, we may recommend more frequent visits.
Baby teeth aren’t permanent; why do they need special care?
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.
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. As soon as his first tooth appears, you can start using a toothbrush. Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head. You can most likely find a toothbrush designed for infants at your local drugstore. Get more details about caring for infants’ teeth
At what age is it appropriate to use toothpaste to clean my child’s teeth?
Once your child has a few teeth, you can start using toothpaste on the brush. Use only a tiny amount for each cleaning, and be sure to choose toothpaste without fluoride for children under 18 months, as too much fluoride can be dangerous for very young children. Always have your child rinse and spit out toothpaste after brushing, to begin a lifelong habit he’ll need when he graduates to fluoride toothpaste. Children naturally want to swallow toothpaste after brushing, and swallowing too much fluoride toothpaste can lead to fluorosis, a condition characterized by mottled, stained enamel. However, if you’re using the recommended “smear” (about half a pea) amount of toothpaste, the possibility of fluorosis and/or fluoride overdose is negligible. You should brush your child’s teeth for him until he is ready to take on that responsibility himself. As fine motor/dexterity skills are constantly developing, Dr. Cooper recommends that a responsible adult brushes your child’s teeth until he is 10 years old. In the meantime, you may allow your child a “turn” either before or after.
What causes cavities?
Certain types of bacteria live in our mouths. When these bacteria come into contact with sugary foods (any carbohydrate) left behind on our teeth after eating, acids are produced. These acids attack the enamel on the exterior of the teeth, eventually eating through the enamel and creating holes in the teeth, which we call cavities.
How can I help my child avoid cavities?
Be sure that your child’s teeth are brushed at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Flossing at the recommended intervals is also important, as flossing can reach spots between the teeth that brushing can’t. Check with Dr. Cooper to determine if a fluoride supplement to help tooth enamel be harder and more resistant to decay is necessary. Avoid sugary foods and drinks, limit snacking, and maintain a healthy diet. Finally, make regular appointments so that we can check the health of your child’s teeth and provide professional cleanings.
Does my child need dental sealants?
Sealants cover the pits and fissures in teeth that are difficult to brush and therefore susceptible to decay. We recommend sealants as a safe, simple way to help your child avoid cavities, especially for molars, which are hardest to reach. Find out more about dental sealants
My child plays sports; how can I protect his teeth?
Even children’s sports involve contact, and we recommend mouth guards for children active in sports. If your little one plays baseball, soccer, or other sports, ask us about our mouth guard recommendations to protect his teeth, lips, cheeks, and gums.
What should I do if my child sucks his thumb or uses a pacifier?
A large majority of children suck their thumbs or fingers or use a pacifier as infants, and most grow out of it by the age of four, without causing any permanent damage to their teeth. If you child continues sucking slightly before permanent teeth erupt or especially after they begin erupting, or sucks aggressively, let us know and we can check to see if any problems may arise from the habit. Get more information, plus tips on helping your child break the habit
When should my child have dental X-rays taken?
Dental X-rays allow us to have a complete diagnosis. We recommend taking X-rays as soon as it is possible, usually around the age of two or three. Regular (at least annually) X-rays are recommended. It allows us to catch any cavities early and treat with minimally invasive treatment. Permanent teeth start coming in around age six, and X-rays help us make sure your child’s teeth and jaw are healthy and properly aligned. If your child has an area that may be at a higher risk of decay, we may suggest having X-rays taken a more frequent interval.