Children's Care

Visit the dental office early

The Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child see a dentist by his or her first birthday. Your dentist may advise waiting longer but will probably want to see the child before all his teeth have come in.
On the first visit the dentist will:
­check the child's teeth for decay and signs of early developmental problems
- answer questions and explain how to care for the child's teeth.
- set up a recall system for your child's regular check ups.

Encourage Brushing

Wipe your child's gums with a wet cloth, even before first baby teeth appear. Doing so, removes excess food and bacteria.
After teeth are visible, use a soft - bristled brush and warm water to clean the teeth.
Around the age of three children should start brushing their own teeth under your supervision. A very small amount of toothpaste should be used. it may be a good time to introduce dental floss to your child.
By the age of 8 children are usually capable of brushing and flossing by themselves. It should become a routine, but try to keep it enjoyable. Let them choose their favorite flavor toothpaste and a colorful toothbrush .

Protect Your Child's Teeth

In order to maintain your child's oral heath, make sure they have a balanced diet. Calcium is essential for healthy teeth and gums. Discourage sugary or starchy snacks.
If your drinking water does not contain fluoride, you may need to substitute with toothpaste, rinses, or fluoride treatments at your dental office.
When your child's first permanent molars erupt, usually at age 6, consider protecting them with dental sealants. Your dentist will apply a thin plastic coating to the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
By creating a barrier against food and the decay causing bacteria, sealents are the most effective method in preventing back teeth decay.

Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste that has an approval of the ADA (American Dental Association). Use a toothbrush with soft, rounded bristles and replace it as soon as bristles show signs of wear. Frequent brushing removes plaque - bacteria which may cause gum disease.Brush all surfaces of your teeth with gentle strokes. Remember to brush your tongue to remove bacteria.
Additionally to brushing you should floss your teeth. Both, waxed and unwaxed dental floss is equally effective.Floss removes plaque under the gumline and between teeth. If you have trouble manipulating floss ask your dentist about other alternatives such as water pick or proxi- brush.
Remember to maintain a balanced diet to help ward off infection and decay and to keep your gums healthy.

Schedule your dental visits every six months for a general check up and cleaning.
Limit the amount of coffee, tea and nicotine to prevent your teeth from stains.
Get enough fluoride to prevent decay. Consult your dentist as to the source and amount necessary to your oral health.
Watch for early signs of of oral cancer and ask your dentist how to do self exams at home. Most oral cancers can be treated if detected early. Contact your dentist if you observe any abnormal growths, persistent sores or swellings or repeated bleeding. Avoid chewing tobacco and smoking.

Gum Care

The leading cause of tooth loss isn't caused by cavities but by gum (periodontal) disease. Periodontal diseases are caused by bacteria present in plaque, the sticky film constantly forming around your teeth. These bacteria create toxins, which irritate the gums and result in a breakdown of the attachment of gum tissues to teeth. Over time, these toxins can destroy gum tissues, allowing the infection to progress to bone loss. An early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, and if left untreated it can lead to more serious condition called periodontitis. The result of periodontitis can be tooth loss.

Your dentist will check your gums during your visit. Some early signs that may indicate that you gums need to be examined are;
- tenderness or sensitivity, especially when brushing or flossing
- bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- red or swollen gums
- persistent bad breath or bad taste

What precautions to take to keep your gums healthy

- keep an eye on early signs of the disease
- see you dentist regularly for teeth cleaning and exam
- brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent plaque build-up. Use fluoride toothpaste and    a soft bristle toothbrush
- maintain a balanced diet. Vitamin C is especially important for healthy gums.