Top 10 Dental Care for Babies
Pediatric dentists are adept at putting their patients at ease throughout dental examinations and treatments. Consequently, pediatric dentists’ offices are designed and decorated with children in mind, with specialized dental equipment to guarantee high-quality kids dental care.
When it comes to your child’s oral health, pediatric dentists have the training and experience to handle it all. An oral examination by a pediatric dentist is the recommended course of action when your child’s pediatrician advises it.
Dental Care That Dental Clinics Offer to Babies and Kids
Comprehensive Dental Exams
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends regular dental exams and tooth cleanings for both children and adults. When a baby’s first tooth erupts, usually between the ages of six months and a year, parents should begin scheduling regular dental visits.
Early childhood caries (ECC), gingivitis, periodontal disease, dental erosion, and other oral conditions are all examined during a pediatric dental exam. Dental fillings, stainless steel crowns, or extractions may be recommended if cavities are discovered. Depending on the patient’s age and medical history, X-rays and disease screenings may also be used.
Dental X-ray
A dentist can use dental x-rays to see how many teeth are still in the gums, how they’re positioned, and how big they are. Dental x-rays are also used to examine teeth before they erupt to determine whether any missing or extra teeth are present. By using an x-ray, a dentist can detect cavities or cracks in the teeth.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a mineral. When your child’s teeth are professionally cleaned, dental hygienists apply topical fluoride to prevent cavities and strengthen primary tooth enamel. Fluoride reduces the risk of dental plaque buildup, which leads to tooth decay.
Read more: Is Fluoride Important for Kids’ Dental Health?
Cavity Fillings for Baby Teeth
Primary molars commonly show early childhood caries (ECC) on the biting surfaces. They can also form on incisors or canines.
When tooth decay goes untreated, bacteria can spread to other teeth, resulting in more serious oral health problems. Amalgam and composite fillings are two restorative treatments.
Read More: How Cavities in Baby Teeth are Treated?
Baby Tooth Extractions
Baby teeth that are severely decayed or injured may need to be extracted. Extractions are also performed when primary teeth become over-retained, preventing the eruption of permanent teeth.
Space Maintainers
Space maintainers keep the space left by a baby tooth open until your child’s adult tooth can erupt and fill it. In most cases, they are constructed from metal or acrylic. A space maintainer may look like teeth to prevent the development of teeth in the area.
Sealants
Sealants are applied to the occlusal (chewing) surfaces for back molars and form “physical barriers” to protect the teeth from decay. A child’s teeth can be protected for up to ten years with the use of fluoride varnishes.
Sealants can also be applied to the permanent teeth of adults, but this procedure is less standard than that for children.
Nerve Therapy
Sometimes, the nerve of a tooth has been affected, either by trauma or by severe decay, and the tooth must be extracted in part or its entirety. When performing nerve therapy (pulpotomy), the pulp of the visible crown of a tooth is extracted, but the pulp in the root canal is left intact.
Stainless Steel Crowns
It is possible to restore decaying, broken, or fractured baby molars with stainless steel crowns (SSC). Because SSCs are strong and durable, they are often the greatest option for a child’s tooth restoration if cavity fillings fail. When a permanent crown is not yet in place, these crowns can be utilized as a temporary fix until it is.
Because SSCs are less durable than other crowns, they cannot be used on permanent teeth in adults.
Mouthguards
Mouthguards serve to protect your lips, tongue, face, and jaw from injury in the event of a blow to the face. The upper teeth serve to protect the soft tissues surrounding the tongue, lips, and cheeks. If your child participates in organized sports or other recreational activities, you must know how to prevent injuries like these.
When Should Kids See a Dentist?
The American Dental Association strongly suggests that children should see a dentist on their first birthday. The dentist will demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques while your baby sits on your lap.
These visits can help detect problems early and familiarize kids with the dentist, reducing their fear as they get older. Pediatric dentists are trained to deal with a variety of pediatric dental issues. They also know when to refer you to an orthodontist for an overbite or an oral surgeon for jaw realignment.
Read more: When Should I Take My Baby to the Dentist?
Why Choose Junior Smiles of Stafford?
Our Stafford, VA team is well-versed in working with clients of various ages and backgrounds. They’ll take the time to get to know you and your family’s requirements, and they’ll work with you to design a treatment plan that suits your schedule. Sealants and fluoride treatments are just two of the many preventative care options we provide to keep your mouth healthy.
About Us
Visiting Junior Smiles of Stafford means you’re in good hands when it comes to receiving high-quality care. Your child’s dental health improves with each visit, ensuring a brighter smile for years to come. We adhere to the ADA and AAPD’s guidelines for best practices.
Where Are We Located?
Phone: (540) 699-2441
Fax: (540) 699-2464
Email: info@juniorsmilesofstafford.com
Monday and Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesdays and Thursdays: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Fridays and Saturdays: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (By appointment only)
How to Book Your Kids First Appointment at Junior Smiles of Stafford
Fill out the form on our website. Within 24 hours, a member of our team will get back to you.