Despite cavities being so common among kids, they are actually preventable with proper oral hygiene habits and routine dental visits. Working together, we can help support your child’s smile and their long-term oral health.
Let’s take a look at how consistent dental visits can help keep your child’s teeth strong, healthy, and cavity-free.
The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups
It doesn’t matter how well your child brushes and flosses at home; plaque and bacteria can still build up in hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. As time goes by, this buildup eventually leads to tooth decay. Regular visits to the dentist mean that early signs of cavities can be detected and addressed before they get too serious.
These routine visits often have a thorough exam where the dentist will closely look at your child’s teeth, gums, and overall oral health. It is an easy way to prevent cavities as long as swift action is taken. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child should visit the dentist every six months. Consider it ongoing protection to establish a foundation of lifelong healthy habits.
Professional Cleanings Remove Harmful Buildup
Along with the exam, these visits include a professional cleaning. Plaque and tartar build up in hard-to-reach areas, between teeth, and along the gumline. During a cleaning, it is removed to prevent decay.
Your child’s teeth will also be polished. This makes it tougher for bacteria to stick around, leaving them with a mouth that is cleaner and healthier. It is worth noting that it isn’t just cavities that professional cleanings help prevent, but gum disease and other oral health issues, too.
Preventive Treatments Offer Extra Protection
Regular visits to the dentist give your child the opportunity to take advantage of preventive treatments that will strengthen and protect their teeth.
Fluoride, for instance, is one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities. It strengthens tooth enamel so that it is more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and sugary foods. This is effective for kids who are just developing teeth and for those who have a whole mouth of permanent teeth.
Dental sealants are another beneficial treatment to protect your child’s molars. Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, where cavities are most likely to form. They then create a barrier, keeping food particles and bacteria away.
Building Lifelong Habits Early
Regular dental visits present kids with the chance to engage with their dental team and learn proper oral hygiene habits along the way. By making oral hygiene a priority as they grow up, you are establishing lifelong habits that are sure to stick around well into adulthood.
Prevent cavities and set your child up for oral health success now and in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should my child start regular dental checkups?
Children should visit the dentist by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears. Early visits will help establish healthy habits while monitoring development from the start.
Can cavities be reversed if caught early?
Yes. When tooth decay is detected in its earliest stage, it may be reversed with preventive treatments like fluoride, dietary changes, and improved oral hygiene. Routine visits help us detect them early.
At Attleboro Pediatric Dentistry, we proudly provide gentle, comprehensive dental care designed specifically for children. Our experienced team focuses on prevention, education, and creating positive dental experiences for every patient. Schedule a checkup for your child today and take the first step toward a lifetime of healthy smiles.
As a parent, you want your young child to have a healthy smile. But did you know that it may require a trip to the orthodontist? Most people assume that orthodontic treatment doesn’t start until the teenage years. However, early orthodontic evaluations can play a significant role in uncovering potential areas of concern before they become more complex.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. This is the time when they should have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, providing valuable insight into development.
What Is an Early Orthodontic Evaluation?
An early orthodontic evaluation is a simple, non-invasive assessment of your child’s jaw alignment, teeth, and bite. Close attention is paid to how the upper and lower jaws are developing and whether permanent teeth are erupting as they should. Signs of overcrowding and spacing are examined, as are habits like mouth breathing and thumb sucking.
It is important to understand that these early visits to the orthodontist are not about putting your child in braces right away. Rather, they help determine if an early intervention may be helpful during development or if certain areas should be monitored for future treatment.
Treating problems early on with interceptive orthodontics can reduce the need for significant orthodontic work later on. It may even eliminate the need for it.
Why Timing Makes a Difference
So, why is timing so important? As your child’s jaws are growing and developing, early evaluation presents the orthodontist with the opportunity to guide development rather than waiting to correct problems after they are fully formed. For instance, it can help to create space for incoming permanent teeth and improve jaw alignment.
Everything moves more easily and quickly when kids are younger. Further, not addressing issues until adolescence means that treatment can take longer and be more complex. Tooth extractions may be necessary or even require surgery.
Signs Your Child May Benefit From an Early Evaluation
Although early evaluations are recommended for kids around seven years of age, some may benefit sooner. How do you know if your child should see the orthodontist? A few of the most common signs include: the early or late loss of baby teeth, crowded or overlapping teeth, difficulty chewing or biting, jaws that shift or make sounds, and frequent thumb sucking. Mouth breathing and speech difficulties may also indicate an underlying orthodontic issue.
What happens if your child doesn’t have any of these signs? Even if it does not appear that your child needs interceptive orthodontics, it is always a good idea to have an early evaluation. This will give you peace of mind and a clear path to ensure the best oral health today and going forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an early orthodontic evaluation mean my child will need braces right away?
No, not at all. Many children do not require immediate orthodontic treatment. An early evaluation is simply an opportunity for us to determine if and when care may be needed.
Is early orthodontic treatment more expensive than waiting until they are older?
Believe it or not, early treatment can reduce the complexity and cost of future orthodontic care by addressing issues before they become more serious.
At Attleboro Pediatric Dentistry, we are committed to helping our young patients develop strong, healthy smiles from the very start. We offer a comprehensive list of dental treatments, including orthodontics. To learn more about what we have to offer or to schedule an early orthodontic evaluation, contact us today.
Because baby teeth are not a permanent fixture, they are often not taken seriously when it comes to oral health. But the truth is that these teeth play a crucial role in a child’s overall health and development.
Here is a closer look at the foundation primary teeth set for a lifetime of beautiful smiles.
Why Baby Teeth Matter
Baby teeth are the placeholders for adult teeth, guiding them into place when they are ready to erupt. They also help kids to speak clearly, chew food properly, and feel confident when they smile.
So, what happens when they are lost too early due to factors such as decay or an accidental injury? The neighboring teeth can begin to shift and move into the now-empty space. While it may not seem like a big deal at first, primary teeth require regular attention from a pediatric dentist. They also support the development of the jaw and facial structure, which can lead to crowding and alignment issues later, often requiring treatment by an orthodontist.
In cases of cavities without proper oral care, pain and infection from unaddressed decay can spread throughout the mouth and, eventually, the entire body.
When Do Baby Teeth Erupt?
It is so important to understand that every kid will develop at their own pace. Most will begin teething around six months of age. However, it may be closer to one year or older for some. Nonetheless, you can typically expect that by three years of age, most kids will have a full set of 20 baby teeth that will remain in place until around age six. This is when adult teeth tend to begin emerging.
Caring for Baby Teeth
Baby teeth are vulnerable to cavities, so early and consistent care is necessary from the start. Here is how you can help set your child up for oral health success.
Start Early
Oral healthcare for babies should begin even before any teeth appear. You can do this by gently wiping the gums with a soft and clean, damp cloth after eating. As the teeth start to erupt, use a soft-bristle toothbrush and very little, kid-friendly toothpaste. Build this into your routine.
Create a Habit
Make it a habit to brush twice each day and floss once as neighboring teeth begin to appear. You may have to physically do this initially until your child has the ability to brush and floss on their own. Even then, it is always a good idea to continue to monitor this task until they get a little older.
Note that only a tiny amount of fluoride toothpaste should be used.
Minimize Sugar
Sugary snacks and drinks can lead to cavities very quickly. Do your best to reduce or limit the amount of juice you give your child, especially as they are going to sleep. Offer water between meals to flush out some of the lingering food debris.
Replace sugary snacks with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for oral and overall health.
Lifelong Oral Health
Do not overlook the value of baby teeth and their impact on oral health. Teaching your child how to properly care for teeth and gums, as well as providing positive early dental experiences, can be the best form of preventive dental treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if a baby tooth gets a cavity?
Cavities in baby teeth need to be treated just like a permanent tooth to stop the pain and infection from spreading. In other words, early treatment helps to prevent bigger problems later.
Is fluoride safe for young kids?
Yes. When used appropriately, fluoride is safe and highly effective in preventing cavities. If you have any questions or concerns, we will be happy to discuss this with you.
At Attleboro Pediatric Dentistry, we are passionate about helping the children in our community grow up with healthy, confident smiles. If you have any questions about your child’s oral health or if it is time for a dental visit, schedule an appointment today.
Professional dental cleanings are an essential part of keeping your child’s smile healthy and bright. But, as a parent, if you have your child’s first pediatric dental cleaning scheduled, you may be feeling a bit nervous—your child, too. What actually happens during these visits?
Knowledge helps to ease fears and bring a sense of comfort. So, we thought we would explain what happens during a dental cleaning so that you and your child arrive feeling confident and ready for the adventure.
Inviting, Kid-Focused Atmosphere
From the moment you step into our office, your child will be captivated by the sights and sounds. We work hard to ensure that our young patients feel comfortable and safe, which means greeting families with a warm smile and calm surroundings.
Our walls are covered in bright scenes that can draw in kids and their imaginations. What’s more, a television playing kid-friendly content acts as a distraction for little ones anxiously awaiting their turn to head back to the dental chair.
An Easy, Gentle Examination
Your child will be called back for their appointment—and you are encouraged to accompany them.
Before the cleaning, our dental team will perform an oral examination to look at the teeth, gums, jaw development, bite alignment, and any signs of decay or other dental issues. Having you alongside means we can discuss any findings or concerns with you.
Some visits will require X-rays. This is completely safe and is recommended to check for decay and monitor development beyond what the eye can see. If this is something your child needs, we will walk you through each step.
A Thorough Cleaning
Cleanings are so important for oral health. And at our office, they are intended to be safe, gentle, and very effective. Rather than lumping it all into one, here is an overview of the different parts of a cleaning so you will know what to expect.
Plaque and Tartar Removal
We diligently work to remove plaque and tartar buildup that may be found on the teeth using special child-friendly instruments. Even kids with the greatest brushing habits will have some buildup that can lead to decay if not removed. Focus is primarily along the gumline and between teeth.
Polishing
Polishing is another very important part of dental cleaning. The teeth are polished with a soft toothbrush and flavorful toothpaste. Kids especially love this part because they get to choose the flavor. The result is a clean and smooth surface that makes it tougher for plaque to stick.
Flossing
Flossing every day is a significant part of an oral hygiene routine as it removes the debris packed in between your teeth.
Unfortunately, many kids have a hard time with this step as it can be a bit tricky for little hands. A cleaning visit is the perfect time to talk about tips and learn the right way to accomplish it.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride treatments are often optional, but are highly recommended. Fluoride, after all, is a mineral that naturally strengthens tooth enamel. When it is applied to children’s teeth after a fresh cleaning, it hardens the enamel and makes it more resistant to decay. Consider it a simple way to prevent cavities.
An Overall Positive Experience
Cleaning appointments present you with an opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns you may have about your child’s oral health and dental development. Maintaining good, healthy teeth and gums is a joint effort—at home and at our office. We do everything we can to ensure an overall positive experience so that every six-month visit is easy and even fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a pediatric dental cleaning take?
On average, a cleaning should take between 30 to 45 minutes. It all depends on your child’s age, comfort level, and necessary treatments.
How can I help my child prepare for the first cleaning appointment?
Remain positive in your words and actions, and always avoid using any negative words to describe the experience. Children mimic your behavior—if you are nervous, they will be too. Arriving early is always a good idea, so the experience isn’t rushed.
At Attleboro Pediatric Dentistry, we commit to providing compassionate, kid-centered care for our young patients. Our dental visits should be enjoyable and stress-free. If it is time for your child’s visit, contact us today to schedule the appointment.
As a parent, you know you want your child to have a strong, healthy smile. That’s why you work hard to help your little one establish a good oral hygiene routine, limit sugary drinks and snacks, and attend routine professional cleanings to set the foundation for lifelong oral health. But what if you could take it a step further? What if you could ensure your child has a little extra protection against cavities—just in case?
This is where dental sealants shine.
What are they, and do they really prevent cavities? Let’s talk about it.
What are Dental Sealants for Kids?
Dental sealants are a protective coating made of resin material that is painted onto the chewing surface of molars and premolars. Because these teeth are more difficult to reach and clean thoroughly, they seem to pose the biggest problem for cavities in kids.
The treatment is completely safe, quick, and painless. The best part? It does not alter the appearance of the teeth at all. Dental sealants are a simple way to form a barrier between enamel and the plaque and bacteria that can cause decay.
How Do Sealants Work?
Plaque and bacteria that don’t get properly removed from the mouth can eventually lead to cavities. While brushing and flossing at home is often very effective in between professional cleanings, sometimes it is just not enough. Hard-to-reach areas often have debris that has gone undetected.
Dental sealants are a simple solution. Once in place, they act as a shield, keeping the bacteria in the debris from getting to your enamel. Here’s how it works.
After a cleaning, the teeth are dried, and a liquid resin is painted onto the chewing surface of each tooth using a small brush. Then, a special light is used to cure or harden the sealant within seconds.
The entire procedure only takes a few minutes, but it can offer protection for several years.
Do Sealants Really Prevent Cavities?
There is no denying the effectiveness of dental sealants for cavity prevention. After all, they physically block the bacteria from getting to the tooth’s enamel—even in crevices. Children who brush and floss but miss these groovy areas have an extra safety net with sealants, keeping them safe from cavities.
As kids get older, they will hone their oral hygiene skills, and dental sealants will no longer be needed. Until then, they are a highly recommended, very effective, and safe dental treatment.
What Happens If My Child Does Not Get Sealants?
Pediatric dentists will suggest this preventive treatment, but the choice to move forward is ultimately the parents. Without sealants, the molars are left exposed, and bacteria are able to settle into the crevices of a tooth.
Even the best brushing and flossing skills may miss these deep, hidden areas as a cavity begins to form. Once it is discovered, a filling will be needed to stop the spread—assuming it is caught before it gets too deep and requires a more invasive procedure.
Dental sealants can protect your child from cavities, eliminating the pain they cause and the expense of the procedure to correct them. It’s a small step to take for a big reward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dental sealants cause any pain?
No, the application procedure is entirely painless. There is no need for any local anesthetic because there is no discomfort. Most kids find the process very easy and quick.
Are sealants covered by dental insurance?
While it will depend on your specific dental insurance plan, most will cover sealants for children, as it is viewed as a preventive treatment, reducing the need for more expensive alternatives.
At Attleboro Pediatric Dentistry, we specialize in compassionate, comprehensive dental care for children of all ages. If you are ready to protect your child’s smile, we are here to make that possible through preventive treatments like dental sealants. Schedule an appointment today.
As a parent, you understand how important it is for your child to develop good oral hygiene habits and visit the dentist regularly. Unfortunately, even when you do all the right things, accidents can still happen.
Kids are active and fearless—putting them at risk for all sorts of mishaps. Whether playing with friends, running on a playground, or engaging in sports, you may find yourself with a dental emergency on your hands. What do you do?
This guide explores the steps you need to take to remain calm and protect your child’s smile. Here’s how to manage a dental emergency.
What is a Dental Emergency?
Not all emergencies are created equal. They can involve different situations and different teeth—even the gums and jaw. Some may only feel like they need to be addressed soon, while others may require the immediate attention of the dentist. So, how do you tell?
Parents, if your kid is experiencing any of the following, it may be a dental emergency.
- A knocked-out tooth
- A chipped, cracked, or fractured tooth
- Severe tooth pain or swelling
- Injuries impacting the lips, tongue, or cheeks
- A lost filling, crown, or dental appliance
Of course, if you aren’t sure, it is always better to give us a call so that we may help you determine your next steps.
Managing Common Dental Emergencies
When pain or injury arises, the first thing you are going to want to do is remain calm. After all, handling an urgent dental matter at the moment can be scary—unless you have an idea of what you are doing. So, let’s talk about it.
A Knocked–Out Tooth
If your child has had a tooth knocked out, your next step will depend on whether it is a permanent or baby tooth.
For permanent teeth, time is of the essence. You will want to gently pick up the tooth by the crown, rinse it with water (if needed), and place it back into the socket. If this isn’t possible, store the tooth in a container of milk or saliva. Next, contact our office right away. Swift action increases the chance of saving the real tooth.
A knocked-out baby tooth? These teeth aren’t going to be saved, so there is no need to try to reinsert them in the socket or store them. You will, however, want your child to have an exam with the dentist to ensure no additional damage has occurred.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
After a tooth has been broken, it is a good idea to rinse gently with warm water and then apply a cold compress to minimize swelling. Contact the dentist to discuss the situation and determine if your child will need to be seen right away or at the next available appointment.
Look for any broken pieces and set them aside until you see the dentist. All broken and chipped teeth should be examined at some point, regardless of severity.
Severe Toothache
Any time your child is complaining of persistent, severe tooth pain, something isn’t right. It could be a cavity, infection, injury, or even a piece of trapped food. Your first step should be to have your child rinse with warm water and then carefully floss around the tooth, removing any food that could have been lodged between the teeth or under the gum.
If there is no relief, call us so that we can help provide relief for your child’s discomfort.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Dental emergencies can happen without impacting the teeth. For instance, a bite to the lip, cheek, or tongue can lead to significant bleeding. If this happens, softly clean the area with water and apply pressure using a clean cloth. A cold compress can also be used in this situation to reduce swelling.
If the bleeding continues for more than 10 minutes, your child will need to seek emergency treatment.
Always Be Prepared
There is no way to know when a dental emergency will happen, but you can be prepared for it—just in case. Educating yourself on the steps to take and encouraging your child to wear a mouthguard while playing sports is a great place to start. And, of course, always have our number stored in your phone for easy access during these stressful moments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I take my child to the ER or the dentist for a dental emergency?
If your child has a dental injury without any life-threatening concerns, you will want to reach out to the dentist. However, excessive bleeding, difficulty breathing, significant swelling with fever, or jaw fractures warrant a trip to the closest emergency room immediately.
What if my child’s toothache goes away on its own?
Anytime your child has a painful toothache, you want to have it evaluated—even if the tooth pain subsides, as infection or damage can still appear. Getting the right treatment reduces the risk of complications.
At Attleboro Pediatric Dentistry, we are here for your child—whether for a routine visit or an urgent emergency. Contact us today for guidance when you need it most.
Tooth stains and discoloration are common problems in pediatric patients. While these stains are generally cosmetic issues, they may also indicate a dental issue that requires attention.
Children with discolored teeth may feel shy about showing their smiles. This blog explains the causes of stained teeth, discusses techniques pediatric dentists use to alleviate the issue, and offers tips to prevent future stains from developing.
Types of Tooth Discoloration and Their Causes
Staining or discoloration can happen due to external reasons or from within the tooth. Causes of external (extrinsic) tooth discoloration include:
- Diet: Consuming highly pigmented foods and beverages can lead to tooth stains. Tomato sauce, berries, soda, and tea can cause stains if the teeth are not properly brushed and flossed.
- Oral Hygiene: When parents do not ensure a child’s teeth are well looked after, tooth stains can result. Plaque buildup is a common cause of tooth stains, especially around the gumline.
- Fluoride Intake: Excessive or insufficient fluoride intake can lead to tooth stains. When children have excessive fluoride in their bodies, their teeth may develop white stains, a condition known as fluorosis. However, if children do not receive enough fluoride, their teeth may be more susceptible to other types of discoloration caused by dental decay.
Internal (intrinsic) discoloration can occur under the following circumstances:
- Antibiotics: Children whose teeth are developing may experience discoloration if they receive certain types of antibiotics. These beneficial medications may have the side effect of staining teeth a gray or brown color. Consult with your child’s pediatrician to determine which medications may cause this issue.
- Dental Trauma: Falls, sports accidents, and other facial injuries can cause discoloration due to broken blood vessels within the pulp. Ensure that your child receives immediate medical or dental attention.
- Tooth Decay: Decayed teeth often take on gray or brown discoloration. The first sign of decay may be a brown or gray spot appearing on the tooth. If you notice these changes in your child’s smile, make a dental appointment as soon as possible.
How Pediatric Dentists Improve the Appearance of Stains and Discoloration
Whitening treatments may be appropriate for teens and young adults. After teeth have reached full development, your pediatric dentist may approve this treatment. Dental bonding can also address some stains, as well as imperfections in space and shaping.
Tips to Prevent Stained and Discolored Teeth
Improve Oral Hygiene
Children need robust at-home oral care routines and parental support. Help your child brush and floss until they can manage independently. Ensure they brush for at least two minutes, twice a day, using fluoride toothpaste.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Avoid excess sugar, starches, candy, dried fruit, and acidic drinks like soda. If your child eats these foods, ensure they rinse their mouth and brush afterward. Encourage fresh fruit and vegetable consumption.
Manage Fluoride Usage
If you use fluoride as directed by a pediatric dentist, your child will have a very low chance of developing fluorosis. Inform your child’s dentist about the fluoride products you use and when. Remember that fluoride’s benefits generally outweigh the small risk of fluorosis.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stained and Discolored Teeth in Children
Why should I correct my child’s stained teeth when it is a cosmetic issue?
Stained teeth can impact a child’s confidence and self-esteem. Even young children may feel uncomfortable with the appearance of their smiles, which can make them feel more self-conscious in social situations. In the case of permanent teeth, your child may experience these feelings in the long term. Addressing stained and discolored teeth at an early stage can help protect your child’s smile for a lifetime.
How can I keep my child’s teeth from staining?
The most important steps parents can take to keep their children’s teeth bright are to encourage proper oral hygiene. Parents should model these behaviors and help their children understand their importance in promoting a healthy, brilliant smile. If you have any questions about home oral care, your child’s dentist or hygienist can provide expert answers.
At Altleboro Pediatric Dentistry, we firmly believe every child deserves a sparkling smile. We work closely with patients and their parents to teach them proper oral care and address any issues that may arise. Please get in touch with us for more information about tooth stains or to schedule your child’s appointment.
Children are all unique, but one thing they have in common is the need for routine dental care. Dental cleanings and oral examinations should occur twice a year for children to prevent cavities and maintain oral health.
For children with special needs, routine dental care may be challenging in some ways. But with a qualified pediatric dentist who provides special needs dentistry, your child can get the care they need in a compassionate, caring environment.
What is Special Needs Dentistry?
Special needs dentistry refers to dental care for children with exceptional characteristics. This may include physical, mental, and emotional disabilities. Common conditions that fall under the category of special needs can range anywhere from autism and sensory disorders to cerebral palsy and downs syndrome.
Accommodations for Children with Special Needs
Children with special needs may need accommodations to receive dental treatment. This may include:
- Receiving dental care in their own wheelchair
- Accessible bathrooms and other facilities
- Extra time allotted for dental care from routine cleanings to advanced procedures
- Familiar faces and routines
- Meet and greet opportunities before any treatment is provided
- Sedation options to help with relaxation
- Private dental rooms
- Technology designed to minimize discomfort and noise
Benefits of Visiting a Special Needs Dentist
If your child has needs that require specialized care, it is extremely beneficial to visit a pediatric dental practice that offers special needs dentistry.
- Minimize stress. Dental visits at a practice that specializes in special needs can reduce stress for children and their parents.
- Ensure safety. A dental team that is trained to work with special needs patients can ensure their safety throughout the visit.
- Get necessary care. Children can get the care they need from a special needs dentist that they may not otherwise get.
Tips for Parents to Help Prepare Children for Dental Visits
Children feel more relaxed when they know what to expect. Prepare your child for their dental visit with the following tips:
- Schedule a meet and greet before the actual appointment.
- Read books with your child about dental visits and what they entail.
- Watch videos of children happily receiving dental care in a comfortable environment.
- Communicate your child’s needs to the dental team.
- Talk about the visit well before, don’t wait until the last minute.
How to Find a Special Needs Dentist in Your Area
Attleboro Pediatric Dentistry provides special needs care for children of all ages. Our doctors and team have the training and experience to help children feel at ease, making the necessary accommodations to keep them comfortable and calm. We understand the varying needs of our patients and take the time to learn about new patients in order to provide the highest quality care possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Special Needs Dentistry
Can you meet my child’s special needs?
We are trained and equipped to provide for a wide range of special needs. We encourage you to contact us to discuss your child’s needs so that we can make the necessary accommodations to ensure a safe and positive experience.
Is sedation available if needed?
We offer a range of sedation options for children who need it in order to receive dental treatment. Options include nitrous oxide, IV sedation, and general anesthesia.
Attleboro Pediatric Dentistry is proud to provide special needs dentistry for children in Attleboro, MA and the surrounding communities. If you are looking for a dental practice that can meet your child’s unique needs in a comfortable and relaxing environment, please contact us today.
Even young children can experience oral health issues that call for restorative dentistry. Fillings, crowns, and dental bonding are a few examples of the procedures pediatric dentists perform in an effort to restore your child’s oral health and the original function of their teeth and gums.
When Children Need Restorative Dental Treatments
Some of the problems requiring a pediatric dentist’s care include:
- Broken teeth
- Cracked teeth
- Chipped teeth
- Tooth decay
- Infection or inflammation
Pediatric Restorative Services We Offer
Composite Fillings
We offer composite fillings that match your child’s natural enamel, blending into their smile.
Composite Bonding
Bonding repairs chipped and broken teeth with a material similar to that used in fillings.
Pulp Treatment
If your child has a toothache, don’t hesitate to bring them to their pediatric dentist. They may need pulp treatments such as:
- Pulpectomy: Also known as a baby root canal, this procedure removes inflamed or infected pulp from the tooth’s root and crown and reseals it. Your child may receive a dental crown to protect the tooth.
- Pulpotomy: Similar to a pulpectomy, this procedure is less extensive and removes pulp only from the tooth’s crown.
Dental Crowns
Our practice uses white zirconia crowns that create a natural smile.
Extractions
A child’s tooth may need extraction due to severe decay or to make way for orthodontic treatments.
Preventing the Need for Pediatric Restorative Treatments
Parents cannot prevent every dental mishap, but you have the power to reduce your child’s chances of needing these procedures.
Ensure that your child sees their pediatric dentist at least twice annually, starting at about age one. Regular preventive care, such as cleanings and fluoride treatments, can help to avoid problems like tooth decay. If a situation like a small cavity arises, treating it at an early stage is more straightforward and promotes better outcomes.
If your child plays active sports, ask their dentist to create a custom mouthguard. Mouthguards are an excellent way to protect primary and permanent teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Restorative Dentistry
Why do my children’s baby teeth need restorative treatments when they will eventually fall out?
Some parents mistakenly believe that treating primary teeth is a waste of time and money when these teeth will shed naturally. However, leaving a damaged or decayed tooth in a child’s mouth can lead to severe discomfort, trouble chewing, and the possibility of infection spreading to neighboring teeth. Treating problems during childhood protects their lifetime oral health.
Why should I bring my child to a pediatric dentist for restorative work?
Pediatric dentists have a unique touch with young patients. They receive years of additional training and have the skills needed to calm and distract children during restorative procedures. A pediatric office is tailored to children’s needs and may be less intimidating than a family dental practice.
At Attleboro Pediatric Dentistry, we believe in keeping your child’s smile healthy and strong. If your child needs restorative dental treatments, we provide expert, compassionate care. Please contact us at our Attleboro, MA, office to book your child’s appointment today!
Parents want to do what is best for their kids, providing them with every opportunity so that they may thrive. And that means looking out for their oral health, too.
Did you know that the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that a child have their first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears? This early visit is significant in establishing good oral health habits today and in the future.
Let’s take a closer look at the importance of an age 1 first dental visit.
Early Prevention and Education
Unlike dental visits for older kids and adults, these first dental visits are less about looking for cavities and more about assessing proper development and discussing oral care for young infants.
There will not typically be a routine cleaning but rather a thorough examination by the dentist. Your child’s mouth, jaw, head, and neck will be evaluated. They will look for early signs of decay and assess growth and development.
This is also the perfect time to discuss education topics. Most parents know how to brush their own teeth, but how do you care for an infant with a few teeth or none at all? Believe it or not, even babies need an oral hygiene routine.
The dentist will show you the best way to support your child’s oral health, as well as answer any questions you have about teething, healthy eating, and brushing techniques.
Lower Risk of Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is very common in children — regardless of how young. Baby teeth are just as susceptible to decay as permanent teeth, and you only need one for it to develop. Early visits to the dentist mean that signs of decay can be spotted and it can be addressed immediately before they get worse. Further, they can identify risk factors and teach parents how to take preventative measures.
Without treatment, tooth decay can lead to pain and infection. Tooth loss may even occur, which can be detrimental to the permanent tooth below it.
Cultivate a Positive Dental Experience
By allowing your child to get comfortable with the dentist at an early age, anxiety and fear can be reduced. Everything about the experience will begin to feel relaxed and less stressful as the young patients begin to develop a rapport with the dental team.
Making dental care a routine part of your child’s life can establish trust and kick off a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a 1 year old with no teeth still need to go to the dentist?
Yes, absolutely. If your 1-year-old doesn’t have any teeth, your dentist can perform an examination to rule out any underlying issues.
What causes tooth decay in babies?
Bacteria present in the mouth can change sugar in foods, drinks, and breast milk into an acid that can eat away at the outer layers of enamel. This is why it is so important to engage in oral hygiene from birth.
First Dental Visit at Attleboro Pediatric Dentistry
At Attleboro Pediatric Dentistry, we work hard to create an environment where kids feel calm and welcomed. We are gentle, compassionate and engage with the child in a way they can understand.
Age 1 dental visits are so important to your child’s oral and overall health. If it is time to book your appointment, give us a call at 508-409-6160. Or book online.