Prevention Tips for Children
Infants
Both the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that children have their first dental visit by age one. By this time, the baby's teeth have started to erupt and it is important to know how to care for them properly to avoid future dental problems. At the first visit, medical and dental histories, oral hygiene recommendations and techniques, diet and nutrition counseling, and examination of the child's mouth are carefully reviewed.
Teething, Pacifiers and Thumb-Sucking
Teething is the process of teeth erupting into the mouth. For most children this process is uneventful, and sometimes a child can have gum soreness during this process. You can help relieve the soreness by allowing the baby to suck on a cold teething ring or gently rubbing your baby's gums. Use of children's pain relievers can help to ease the discomfort as well.
Primary and Permanent Teeth
The primary dentition is composed of 20 teeth, which are usually all erupted by the age of 3. These teeth are gradually replaced by the age of 12 or so with a full set of 28 permanent teeth, and later on, molars called "wisdom teeth."
It is essential to maintain primary teeth because their health and development sets the stage for permanent teeth. If primary teeth become diseased or do not grow in properly, this could affect the development of the permanent teeth.
Brushing
Babies' gums and teeth should be gently cleaned after any feedings. Before any teeth erupt, wiping the gums with a clean washcloth is important to prevent future dental problems. A soft bristled brush can be used once teeth start to erupt. Generally, toothpaste with no fluoride should be used until the age of 2, unless otherwise advised by your dental professional.
Fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen the teeth. Systemic fluoride is present in most public drinking water systems and in a lot of food products. Topical fluoride is found in toothpastes and mouth rinses. Topical fluoride is applied at every checkup visit to ensure the strength of your child's teeth.
If you are unsure about the fluoride content in your community's water, contact your city water department. If you find that there is no fluoride in your public water supply, fluoride supplements may be prescribed by your dental professional.
Sealants
Sealants are protective coatings that cover the chewing part of the teeth to prevent tooth decay. Sealants are usually recommended for the permanent molars and premolars. However, they may be recommended for the primary teeth if it appears to have weaker enamel.
Toothaches
The cause of a toothache can range anywhere from a canker sore, erupting teeth, or as severe as an infected tooth. Most toothaches can be relieved with the help of children's pain medications. For gum sores, rinsing the mouth with a solution of warm water and salt before bedtime will help disinfect the gum tissue to allow for optimal healing. The best evaluation of your child's toothache is to be examined by a dental professional.
Injuries
For younger children involved in physical activities and sports, mouth guards are strongly encouraged, and can prevent injuries to the teeth, gums, lips and other oral structures.
Mouth guards are appliances that safely fit around your child's teeth. Many mouth guards are soft and pliable when opened, and mold to the child's teeth when first inserted.
In the case that a tooth has been knocked out, generally, primary teeth are not replanted. Permanent teeth should be replanted in the socket as soon as possible. At the time of the injury, attempt to place the tooth back in its socket. Remember to try to handle the dislocated tooth by the crown and not the root. If you cannot replant the tooth, place it in a container of cold milk, saline or saliva and bring it with you to your emergency dental appointment.
For a fractured tooth, it is best to rinse with warm water and again, apply a cold pack or compress. Ibuprofen may be used to help keep down swelling. Make an appointment with your dental professional as soon as possible.