FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Commonly Asked Questions about Diet & Cavity Prevention

How can I tell if my child gets the right amount of fluoride?

Your child may need dietary supplements if your local water isn't fluoridated or your healthy water doesn't contain natural fluoride. We can help determine the necessary amount based on age, weight, water fluoride content, and the toothpaste brand your child uses.

What should my child's diet include?

Your child should have a balanced diet that provides essential nutrients for growth and development. Daily meals should incorporate proteins such as meat, fish, eggs, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and whole grains.

Does diet affect dental health?

Yes, diet plays a significant role in dental health. A well-balanced diet helps teeth grow properly and maintains healthy gums. Be aware, though, that a diet rich in sugar and carbohydrates can lead to tooth decay.

How can I create a tooth-friendly diet for my child?

A balanced diet is key. Pay attention to how often your child eats starchy foods like bread, pasta, or potato chips, as these can stick to teeth and increase the risk of cavities. Sugary foods are also a concern because sugar isn't just found in candy. For example, milk and peanut butter both contain sugar. A healthier sandwich alternative would be replacing jelly with fresh fruit like apple slices or bananas and opting for low-sodium peanut butter.

Should I remove sugar and starch entirely from my child's diet?

No, many starches and sugars are essential to overall health. However, these foods are safer for teeth when consumed as part of a meal. Sticky foods are more challenging to wash away, so regular dental hygiene is important. Talk to our team about creating a healthy diet plan for your child.

What can you tell me about preventing tooth decay in infants?

Never put your baby to bed with a bottle of milk, juice, or formula. Liquid left in the mouth while sleeping can breed bacteria that cause tooth decay. A bottle of water or a pacifier is a safer option.

Questions About Tooth Loss

What if my child loses a baby tooth from injury?

Contact our office immediately for guidance.

What should I do if a permanent tooth is knocked out?

Rinse the tooth gently with cool water, but don't scrub it. Place the tooth back in its socket and hold it there with clean gauze if possible. If reinserting the tooth isn't possible, put it in a container of milk or water and visit our office immediately. Acting quickly increases the chance of saving the tooth.

What if my child's tooth is chipped or fractured?

Time is critical, so contact us immediately. Rinse your child's mouth with water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Bring the broken tooth fragment to the appointment if you can locate it.

What should I do if my child has a toothache?

Call our office to schedule an appointment. To help ease your child's discomfort, rinse their mouth with cool water and apply a cold compress.

How can I prevent dental injuries?

Having your child wear mouthguards during sports and childproofing your home can greatly reduce the risk of injuries. Regular dental checkups also help with preventive care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sealants

What are dental sealants?

Sealants are a thin, protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth to prevent decay.

How do sealants help?

Sealants smooth out teeth's grooves, making it easier to clean hard-to-reach areas. This prevents plaque buildup and reduces the risk of cavities.

How long do sealants last?

Sealants can last several years, often three to five years or longer. Our team will check the sealants during routine visits and recommend repairs or reapplication as needed.

Which teeth should get sealants?

Molars are the most common teeth to receive sealants, as they are more prone to developing decay. We assess each child individually to determine which teeth would benefit most.

What's the process for applying sealants?

The procedure is quick and straightforward, typically completed in one visit. The tooth is cleaned and dried, and a sealant is applied. It's then hardened with a special light, and normal activities can resume immediately.

Do I still need to ensure my child brushes and flosses after sealants?

Yes, brushing and flossing remain important even after sealants are applied. Sealants are just one part of a comprehensive cavity prevention strategy.

How much does the sealant application cost?

Sealants are affordable, and many dental insurance plans cover the procedure. Check with your insurance provider to confirm your child's coverage.

Questions About Gummy Smiles

When a child shows too much gum when smiling, this is known as a gummy smile. Several factors could be at play, including:

• Gum growth could be caused by braces, especially if the teeth appear short before treatment.
• Altered eruption of teeth, where gums don't recede as they should, makes the teeth look shorter.
• Oral habits such as thumb sucking or teeth grinding, which can change the way teeth appear.
• Jaw development issues may require early orthodontic intervention to control and improve appearance.

Before treatment, it's essential to thoroughly assess the causes of a gummy smile to ensure an accurate diagnosis and correction.

Questions About Mouthguards

What are mouthguards?

Mouthguards are soft plastic devices designed to fit over the upper teeth to protect the mouth during sports activities.

Why are mouthguards important?

Mouth guards prevent teeth, lips, tongue, and jaw injuries. They also help protect against head and neck injuries, such as concussions, especially when a child is engaged in contact sports.

When should my child wear a mouthguard?

Mouthguards should be worn during any physical activity with a risk of injury, including sports like hockey, soccer, basketball, and skateboarding.

How do I choose the right mouthguard?

Choose a mouthguard that your child feels comfortable wearing. If it feels bulky or impedes speech too much, it's likely not the best fit. However, slightly more expensive, custom-fitted mouthguards offer better protection and comfort than store-bought options.