1. 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 twice a day.
2. When should I take my child to the dentist for the first check-up?
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.
3. What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a 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 the primary and specialty oral care
providers for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health needs.
4. 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.
5. What should I do if my child has a toothache?
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.
6. Are thumbsucking and pacifier habits harmful for a child's teeth?
Thumb and pacifier sucking habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long period of time. Most
children stop these habits on their own, but if they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers when the permanent teeth arrive, a
mouth appliance may be recommended by your pediatric dentist.
7. How can I prevent decay caused by nursing?
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.
8. 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.
9. 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. When toothpaste is used after age 2-3, parents should supervise brushing
and make sure the child uses no more than a pea-sized amount on the brush. Children should spit out and not swallow
excess toothpaste after brushing.
10. How do I make my child's diet safe for his teeth?
Make sure your child has a balanced diet, including one serving each of: fruits and vegetables, breads and cereals, milk and
dairy products, and meat, fish and eggs. Limiting the servings of sugars and starches will also aid in protecting your child's
teeth from decay. You can also ask your pediatric dentist to help you select foods that protect your children's teeth.
11. How do dental sealants work?
Sealants work by filling in the crevices on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This shuts out food particles that could get
caught in the teeth, causing cavities. The application is fast and comfortable and can effectively protect teeth for many years.
12. What can I do to protect my child's teeth during sporting events?
Soft plastic mouthguards can be used to protect a child's teeth, lips, cheeks and gums from sport related injuries. A custom-
fitted mouthguard developed by a pediatric dentist will protect your child from injuries to the teeth, face and even provide
protection from severe injuries to the head.
13. What should I do if my child falls and knocks out a permanent tooth?
The most important thing to do is to remain calm. Then find the tooth. Hold it by the crown rather than the root and try to
reinsert it in the socket. If that is not possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and take your child and the glass immediately to
the pediatric dentist.
14. How safe are dental X-rays?
There is very little risk in digital dental X-rays. Pediatric dentists are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which
children are exposed. Lead aprons and digital sensors/plates are used to ensure safety and minimize the amount of radiation.
15. My two-year-old child has a cavity in a tooth. Should the tooth be filled?
Yes, it should be treated as soon as possible to avoid pain and infection.
16. Will I go into the treatment room with my child?
This depends on the pediatric dentist, the parent, the child and the situation. The decision on where the parent remains
during the child's treatment should be made by the pediatric dentist and the parent, and is based on what is best for the child.
17. When will my baby start getting teeth?
Usually the two lower front teeth (central incisors) erupt at about six months of age, followed shortly by the two upper central
incisors. During the next 18 to 24 months, the rest of the baby teeth appear, although not in orderly sequence from front to
back. All of these 20 primary teeth should be present at two to three years of age.
18. Is there anything I can do to comfort my baby while he is teething?
Some children appear to be comforted during the normal eruption process by chewing on a teething biscuit, a piece of toast,
or a frozen teething ring. Teething medications that can be rubbed on the gums to reduce the discomfort are available at
your pharmacy.
19. Why do the permanent teeth look so much yellower than the baby teeth?
Permanent teeth are normally yellower than primary teeth, but they appear even more so because you are comparing them
with the lighter baby teeth still in the mouth.
20. My child has a double row of front teeth. Why is this and what should be done about it?
This is not an uncommon occurrence. Sometimes the permanent teeth begin to come in before the baby teeth are lost. When
this happens, unless the child can work the baby teeth out by himself within a few weeks, the pediatric dentist may have to
remove them. Once the baby tooth is out, the tongue usually moves the permanent tooth forward into its proper position, if
space permits. If this crowded condition should occur in the upper jaw, the baby teeth should be removed immediately.
Sometimes it is necessary for the pediatric dentist to move the permanent tooth forward with an orthodontic appliance.
21. What about the big space between my eight-year-old's two upper front teeth?
Usually there is no need for concern. The space can be expected to close in the next few years as the other front teeth erupt.
If there is a problem, your pediatric dentist will recognize it.
22. My child's baby teeth had a lot of decay. Does this mean that the permanent will be just as bad?
Very probably, unless the cause can be determined and proper preventive and corrective steps are taken.
23. Why should the baby teeth be filled, since they will be lost anyway?
Even though these primary teeth are called "baby teeth", some of them must serve until the child is at least twelve years old,
sometimes longer. Neglect of the baby teeth can result in pain, infection of the gums and jaws, impairment of general health,
and premature loss of teeth, which is a major cause of orthodontic problems. Also, cavities tend to form in teeth that are next
to other teeth with unfilled cavities, because decay is really an infection and will spread if left untreated. It is unwise to leave
active decay in the mouth. Decay on baby teeth can cause decay on permanent teeth. Unfortunately, most children with
untreated decay on baby teeth will develop decay on permanent teeth.
24. When should I start cleaning my baby's teeth?
You should start cleaning your baby’s teeth as soon as the teeth come in, because harmful plaque begins to form as soon as
teeth erupt.
25. Should I use an electric toothbrush on my child's teeth?
Some children, and some adults, seem to do a more effective job of cleaning the teeth with the aid of an electric toothbrush.
It is often a matter of patient preference, and the novelty of the electric toothbrush may even motivate your child to brush
more frequently. The pediatric dentist may suggest an electric toothbrush for some children.
26. What toothpaste is best for my child?
A fluoridated toothpaste that is recognized by the American Dental Association, as being effective in reducing tooth decay
should be used. Equally as important as the toothpaste is the thoroughness with which the plaque is removed by brushing
and flossing. Children aged three years and younger should not use a fluoridated toothpaste; please select a non-fluoridated
infant toothpaste.
27. Why is it necessary to take my child to the pediatric dentist every six months?
The pediatric dentist will want to see your child at regular and frequent intervals for several reasons. Regular visits keep the
child familiar with the pediatric dentist and his or her staff and encourage a pleasant, confident attitude in the child regarding
this necessary, life long health practice. Also, as the child develops and grows, the pediatric dentist will want to be certain that
tooth eruption and proper jaw development are progressing normally or, if not, that corrective measures are undertaken in
time. Appropriate preventive measures such as regular applications of fluoride on the tooth surfaces, placement of pit and
fissure sealants on newly erupted teeth, and reinforcement of good daily health practices (brushing, flossing, and dietary
advice) can be continually encouraged by the pediatric dentist and his or her staff when the child is a regular and frequent
visitor to the dental office. If decay or other dental defect has occurred, it will be detected in the early stages when it is easier
and less costly to treat.
28. Why is fluoride so important?
Fluoride has been shown to dramatically decrease a person's chances of getting cavities by making teeth stronger. Fluoride
in the drinking water is the best and easiest way to get it. Most major cities have fluoride in the drinking water system.
29. Should I worry about thumb or finger sucking?
Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants; most children stop by age two. If your child does not stop thumb sucking,
discourage it by age four. Prolonged thumb sucking can create crowded, crooked teeth and bite problems. Your pediatric
dentist will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb sucking habit.
30. What is a sealant?
A sealant is a clear or shaded plastic material that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and
molars), where decay occurs most often. This sealant acts as a barrier, protecting the decay prone areas of the back teeth
from plaque and acid.
31. How often should I visit the dentist?
The American Dental Association — and Dr. Patel— recommends professional cleanings and checkups at least twice a year.
32. How can I pay for my treatment?
All payment options will be discussed before your treatment. We are happy to process your dental insurance claims. We
accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.
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 twice a day.
2. When should I take my child to the dentist for the first check-up?
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.
3. What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a 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 the primary and specialty oral care
providers for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health needs.
4. 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.
5. What should I do if my child has a toothache?
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.
6. Are thumbsucking and pacifier habits harmful for a child's teeth?
Thumb and pacifier sucking habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long period of time. Most
children stop these habits on their own, but if they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers when the permanent teeth arrive, a
mouth appliance may be recommended by your pediatric dentist.
7. How can I prevent decay caused by nursing?
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.
8. 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.
9. 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. When toothpaste is used after age 2-3, parents should supervise brushing
and make sure the child uses no more than a pea-sized amount on the brush. Children should spit out and not swallow
excess toothpaste after brushing.
10. How do I make my child's diet safe for his teeth?
Make sure your child has a balanced diet, including one serving each of: fruits and vegetables, breads and cereals, milk and
dairy products, and meat, fish and eggs. Limiting the servings of sugars and starches will also aid in protecting your child's
teeth from decay. You can also ask your pediatric dentist to help you select foods that protect your children's teeth.
11. How do dental sealants work?
Sealants work by filling in the crevices on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This shuts out food particles that could get
caught in the teeth, causing cavities. The application is fast and comfortable and can effectively protect teeth for many years.
12. What can I do to protect my child's teeth during sporting events?
Soft plastic mouthguards can be used to protect a child's teeth, lips, cheeks and gums from sport related injuries. A custom-
fitted mouthguard developed by a pediatric dentist will protect your child from injuries to the teeth, face and even provide
protection from severe injuries to the head.
13. What should I do if my child falls and knocks out a permanent tooth?
The most important thing to do is to remain calm. Then find the tooth. Hold it by the crown rather than the root and try to
reinsert it in the socket. If that is not possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and take your child and the glass immediately to
the pediatric dentist.
14. How safe are dental X-rays?
There is very little risk in digital dental X-rays. Pediatric dentists are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which
children are exposed. Lead aprons and digital sensors/plates are used to ensure safety and minimize the amount of radiation.
15. My two-year-old child has a cavity in a tooth. Should the tooth be filled?
Yes, it should be treated as soon as possible to avoid pain and infection.
16. Will I go into the treatment room with my child?
This depends on the pediatric dentist, the parent, the child and the situation. The decision on where the parent remains
during the child's treatment should be made by the pediatric dentist and the parent, and is based on what is best for the child.
17. When will my baby start getting teeth?
Usually the two lower front teeth (central incisors) erupt at about six months of age, followed shortly by the two upper central
incisors. During the next 18 to 24 months, the rest of the baby teeth appear, although not in orderly sequence from front to
back. All of these 20 primary teeth should be present at two to three years of age.
18. Is there anything I can do to comfort my baby while he is teething?
Some children appear to be comforted during the normal eruption process by chewing on a teething biscuit, a piece of toast,
or a frozen teething ring. Teething medications that can be rubbed on the gums to reduce the discomfort are available at
your pharmacy.
19. Why do the permanent teeth look so much yellower than the baby teeth?
Permanent teeth are normally yellower than primary teeth, but they appear even more so because you are comparing them
with the lighter baby teeth still in the mouth.
20. My child has a double row of front teeth. Why is this and what should be done about it?
This is not an uncommon occurrence. Sometimes the permanent teeth begin to come in before the baby teeth are lost. When
this happens, unless the child can work the baby teeth out by himself within a few weeks, the pediatric dentist may have to
remove them. Once the baby tooth is out, the tongue usually moves the permanent tooth forward into its proper position, if
space permits. If this crowded condition should occur in the upper jaw, the baby teeth should be removed immediately.
Sometimes it is necessary for the pediatric dentist to move the permanent tooth forward with an orthodontic appliance.
21. What about the big space between my eight-year-old's two upper front teeth?
Usually there is no need for concern. The space can be expected to close in the next few years as the other front teeth erupt.
If there is a problem, your pediatric dentist will recognize it.
22. My child's baby teeth had a lot of decay. Does this mean that the permanent will be just as bad?
Very probably, unless the cause can be determined and proper preventive and corrective steps are taken.
23. Why should the baby teeth be filled, since they will be lost anyway?
Even though these primary teeth are called "baby teeth", some of them must serve until the child is at least twelve years old,
sometimes longer. Neglect of the baby teeth can result in pain, infection of the gums and jaws, impairment of general health,
and premature loss of teeth, which is a major cause of orthodontic problems. Also, cavities tend to form in teeth that are next
to other teeth with unfilled cavities, because decay is really an infection and will spread if left untreated. It is unwise to leave
active decay in the mouth. Decay on baby teeth can cause decay on permanent teeth. Unfortunately, most children with
untreated decay on baby teeth will develop decay on permanent teeth.
24. When should I start cleaning my baby's teeth?
You should start cleaning your baby’s teeth as soon as the teeth come in, because harmful plaque begins to form as soon as
teeth erupt.
25. Should I use an electric toothbrush on my child's teeth?
Some children, and some adults, seem to do a more effective job of cleaning the teeth with the aid of an electric toothbrush.
It is often a matter of patient preference, and the novelty of the electric toothbrush may even motivate your child to brush
more frequently. The pediatric dentist may suggest an electric toothbrush for some children.
26. What toothpaste is best for my child?
A fluoridated toothpaste that is recognized by the American Dental Association, as being effective in reducing tooth decay
should be used. Equally as important as the toothpaste is the thoroughness with which the plaque is removed by brushing
and flossing. Children aged three years and younger should not use a fluoridated toothpaste; please select a non-fluoridated
infant toothpaste.
27. Why is it necessary to take my child to the pediatric dentist every six months?
The pediatric dentist will want to see your child at regular and frequent intervals for several reasons. Regular visits keep the
child familiar with the pediatric dentist and his or her staff and encourage a pleasant, confident attitude in the child regarding
this necessary, life long health practice. Also, as the child develops and grows, the pediatric dentist will want to be certain that
tooth eruption and proper jaw development are progressing normally or, if not, that corrective measures are undertaken in
time. Appropriate preventive measures such as regular applications of fluoride on the tooth surfaces, placement of pit and
fissure sealants on newly erupted teeth, and reinforcement of good daily health practices (brushing, flossing, and dietary
advice) can be continually encouraged by the pediatric dentist and his or her staff when the child is a regular and frequent
visitor to the dental office. If decay or other dental defect has occurred, it will be detected in the early stages when it is easier
and less costly to treat.
28. Why is fluoride so important?
Fluoride has been shown to dramatically decrease a person's chances of getting cavities by making teeth stronger. Fluoride
in the drinking water is the best and easiest way to get it. Most major cities have fluoride in the drinking water system.
29. Should I worry about thumb or finger sucking?
Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants; most children stop by age two. If your child does not stop thumb sucking,
discourage it by age four. Prolonged thumb sucking can create crowded, crooked teeth and bite problems. Your pediatric
dentist will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb sucking habit.
30. What is a sealant?
A sealant is a clear or shaded plastic material that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and
molars), where decay occurs most often. This sealant acts as a barrier, protecting the decay prone areas of the back teeth
from plaque and acid.
31. How often should I visit the dentist?
The American Dental Association — and Dr. Patel— recommends professional cleanings and checkups at least twice a year.
32. How can I pay for my treatment?
All payment options will be discussed before your treatment. We are happy to process your dental insurance claims. We
accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.
Smile Island Dental
| Where kids come first, always! |
Dentistry for Children
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