Author: kidstoothhotline

As a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist with over ten years of experience practicing Pediatric Dentistry, I understand that parents and caregivers are in need for information to care for their children's oral health. You may not have your normal lines of communication open or you cannot easily call or visit your child’s Dentist and obtain answers to your questions. Some families may not yet have a Pediatric Dentist to call. My expertise and knowledge can help serve as your source as I provide answers with information that is current, informative and the Gold Standards of Care which are the practice Guidelines approved by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. I want to help you access this important information by answering your questions through this site. You may want to submit your own individual questions or you can view my postings and answers to other families questions that may apply to your child's needs. I am committed to helping you stay informed, after all it is all about your child.

Why Are My Toddler’s Gums Bleeding? Causes & Solutions

October 3, 2024October 2, 2024 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

High 5, My Mom Is Taing Extra Special Care of My Mouth — **High 5, My Mommy Is Taking Extra Special Care of My Mouth**

You’ve seen your gums bleed when you brush your own teeth, and don’t think twice about it. After all don’t everyone’s gums bleed?

Then you notice when you brush your toddler’s teeth their gums also bleed. Sure you’ve missed a few brushings but why would their gums bleed? Now when you look at their gums they don’t look so good.

Your toddler’s gums bleeding isn’t something you want to overlook.

Today we’re breaking down the basics for you to understand why this is happening, how to treat it, and how to prevent bleeding gums for your toddler.

Is It Normal For A Toddler’s Gums To Bleed?

In a word, No.

If you notice your child’s gums are bleeding when you’re brushing their teeth this is something to pay attention to.

It’s important to check and see if their gums are red, swollen, or tender. This is something to talk about with your pediatrician or pediatric dentist.

We're Sad Ever Since Our Gums Started Bleeding And Hurting — **We’re Sad Ever Since Our Gums Started Bleeding And Hurting**

My Mommy And Daddy Make Sure My Gums Are As Healthy As I Am Adorable — **We’re Sad Ever Since Our Gums Started Bleeding And Hurting**

What Causes Bleeding Gums For Toddlers?

There are a few reasons why you toddler’s gums are bleeding ~

Plaque – Plaque is a film that forms everyday on their teeth from eating and drinking. With regular twice daily brushing and nightly flossing the plaque accumulation can be controlled.
When the plaque is left to sit on your toddler’s new teeth it also
attaches onto gums and makes the gums red, swollen and tender
so they bleed when you do brush.
Mouth Breathing – Children who suffer with allergies, chronic nasal congestion, or enlarged tonsils become mouth breathers. When toddlers breathe through their mouth, their gums are exposed to the air which causes their gums to become dry, red, swollen and irritated; so when you brush their teeth their gums bleed.
If your child is having a hard time breathing through their nose this is something to discuss with your pediatrician or pediatric dentist.
Toothbrush – A soft bristle toothbrush is the way to go as it allows for a kinder, gentler, more effective toothbrushing. It’s also important to make sure that the toothbrush is the correct size to fit their mouth so you can brush all around their mouth easily.
Daily Routine – Sometimes children are fussy and you just want to put them to bed, even if it means not brushing their teeth. While this may happen on a rare occasion, it’s best not to let this become the usual. If this does happen more often than not, plaque continues to accumulate on top of plaque which leads to bleeding gums and tooth decay (aka cavities).

**My Mommy Makes Sure She Keeps My Gums Healthy**

Daddy Takes Care Of My Gums Like When He Makes Sure I'm Good Riding My Bicycle — **My Mommy Makes Sure She Keeps My Gums Healthy**

Are Bleeding Gums And Gingivitis The Same Thing?

Yes, bleeding gums and gingivitis are the same thing. Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums surrounding the teeth which leads to bleeding gums..

What Are The Signs Of Gingivitis In Toddlers?

When plaque sits on the teeth without being removed the gums become red, swollen, irritated and begin to recede away from the teeth.

Plaque irritates the gums and it is the consistent irritation that causes the bleeding.

What you need to look for ~

Blood on their toothbrush or in the sink if they can spit out,
Swollen, red, tender, inflamed and irritated gums,
Bad breath – plaque that isn’t brushed away causes bad breath.

Can A Toddler Have Gum Disease?

Yes, a toddler can have gum disease.

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease (aka periodontal disease). This causes the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily.

At this mild stage gingivitis is reversible with regular dental care and good at home consistent twice daily home care.

I Love Showing Off My Healthy Gums And Beautiful Smile At My Dance Recital — **Healthy Gums Mean Happy Smiles**

How To Treat And Prevent Bleeding Gums For Toddlers?

The best way to prevent your toddler’s gums from bleeding is to keep to a daily routine of twice a day toothbrushing with a soft bristle brush and nightly flossing.

While you’re brushing their teeth, angle the toothbrush slightly towards the gums and brush in gentle circles all around their mouth, including their tongue.

Plaque also sticks to the tongue so remember to brush their tongue as well.

What to do ~

Establish a consistent, daily toothbrushing and flossing routine,
Use a soft bristle toothbrush in the correct size for your toddler’s mouth,
Maintain a balanced diet, cut back on sugary foods and drinks which increase plaque and tooth decay.

**Mommy Always Says To Smile Pretty To Show Off My Healthy Gums**

What To Remember

Your toddler’s bleeding gums is definitely something you want to pay attention to.

Plaque forms in the mouth everyday, even in toddler’s mouths. Beginning a regular toothbrushing and flossing routine with your child when they are young helps you both grow into it together.

Now I Know How Important It Is To Keep Up On My Children's Teeth and Gums — **Now I Know How Important It Is To Keep Up On My Children’s Teeth and Gums**

Does your toddler have bleeding gums? How is your family’s daily toothbrushing and flossing routine going? What special tricks have you come up with to keep your routine going? What struggles are you having in your routine? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Email us at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us or Chat with us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

Are Apples Good For Children’s Teeth?

September 26, 2024September 25, 2024 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

**We Always Have Apples For Our Afterschool Snack**

Happy Fall!

Fall is here and it seems like everyone is planing a trip to go apple picking.

There are so many wonderful things about apples, and just about everyone loves them.

Did you know that apples are a very important fruit? Not only are they packed with vitamins for a healthy diet, apples can also help clean teeth.

Keep reading for some fyi’s on how apples help keep teeth and gums healthy.

Eating An Apple Is Almost Like Using A Toothbrush

Eating an apple can help remove plaque from teeth and gums.

How Is This Possible?

Apples contain a specific acid called malic acid which can break down plaque that accumulates on the teeth and gums.
Biting into and chewing an apple stimulates more saliva to be produced and flow into the mouth. More saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria. This also helps by diluting and washing away sugars that are attached to the teeth.
Apples are 85% water which also helps dilute sugars in the mouth.

Mommy Says Apples Are Good For Me And My Teeth

Daddy Says Apples Help Keep Our Teeth Healthy And Happy — Mommy Says Apples Are Good For Me And My Teeth

Apples Are Great Snacks

Apples make great snacks with their natural sweetness and high fiber content.

An apple’s natural sweetness decreases cravings for other higher sugar content snacks. The fiber keeps children full longer so they snack less. By being high in water apples are naturally juicy so your child is less likely to ask for sugary beverages.

Apples Are My Favorite — **I Always Eat Apples When I Study**

10 Fun Apple Facts

There are more than 2,500 varieties of apples are grown in the U.S.
The most popular apples are Red Delicious, Fuji, Golden Delicious, McIntosh, Rome, Granny Smith, and Gala.
A bushel of apples weighs almost 42 pounds.
Bobbing for apples – apples float so easily since they are 25% air.
Apple trees take about 4-5 years to produce their first apples.
It takes 36 apples to make 1 gallon of apple cider.
Apples belong to the rose family.
Apples have no fat, sodium, or cholesterol.
Apples ripen 6-10 times quicker at room temperature than when they are refrigerated.
Johnny Appleseed was in fact a real person.

What's Your Favorite Apple? — What’s Your Favorite Apple?

Can't Wait To Eat The Apples We Picked Today — What’s Your Favorite Apple?

What’s your family’s favorite way to eat apples? Do you have a special apple pie recipe to share? How many apples does your family eat in a week? What’s your family’s favorite apple? Tell Us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Chat with us and Like Us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

How To Prepare Your Child And Yourself For Your Child’s Tooth Extraction

September 19, 2024September 18, 2024 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

My Dentist Wiggled 2 Teeth And I Was A Great Helper

Your day is going along as usual, then you get a call from your child’s school telling you to come pick them up.

When you get to school the nurse tells you that your child has been complaining their tooth hurts and there’s a pimple on their gums.

You remember the last time they had a pimple it went away. Now it’s back and you know the tooth needs to come out.

But you thought you had more time, because you’re both not ready.

Today we’re breaking down the basics on how to prepare both you and your child for a tooth extraction.

Why Do Children Need To Have Teeth Taken Out?

Children’s teeth may need to be taken out (aka extraction) for a few reasons.

Sometimes teeth develop an infection (aka abscess) when cavities grow bigger allowing bacteria to keep growing through the tooth.

In some cases a broken tooth can lead to an infection. When a tooth is broken bacteria spreads into and through the unprotected tooth layers to the nerve (aka pulp) of a tooth. The pulp becomes inflamed, starts to die, and an infection begins.

There are other times when there is an accident and a tooth is moved out of place, which disturbs or breaks the nerve and leads to an infection.

Sometimes teeth may need to be removed for Orthodontic reasons, such as to relieve excessive crowding.

There are sometimes when a baby tooth is taking its time in falling out and the adult tooth is growing into the mouth.

My Dentist Is Checking Out My Tooth That Hurts

Prepare Yourself

The first step is to prepare yourself. The more you know the better you can help your child.

Your child needing to have a tooth extracted is scary, for them and for you. So you’ll want to know as much as you can to make this as easy as possible for both of you.

So what do you ask?

First, find out why their tooth needs to be removed,
Second, ask what are the benefits of the procedure,
Third, ask about the procedure itself; what happens and how is it done,
Fourth, ask what your child will feel during the procedure,
Fifth, ask if you can be present during the procedure,
Sixth, ask how you can explain this to your child,
Seven, ask as a pediatric dentist how they explain this to your child,
Eight, ask how you take care of your child afterwards.

Preparing Your Child

You know your child best.

Maybe they do better when you bring things up in advance and they have time to think about it, get used to it and ask you questions.

Perhaps they’ll do better with you bringing this up as you’re going to the appointment with less time to stress.

Or maybe your child is somewhere in the middle.

Also, in addition to timing, the conversation is important.

Let your child ask their questions. Be honest that this is something they need to have done. Bring this up gently and use words that are easy and age appropriate for your child to understand.

Staying Positive And How To Respond To Your Child’s Questions About Why Their Tooth Needs To Be Extracted

When talking with your child stay positive, upbeat, and be confident. They feel confident when they see you being positive, confident and upbeat.

Let them know the tooth fairy will be making a visit. Their tooth won’t be hurting any more and they can get back to their pleasant dreams. When their new adult tooth grows in, it will be happy and healthy. They’ll have their smile back again.

Your Child’s Treatment Day

The night before is not the time to worry. Everyone needs to have a good night’s sleep.

Depending on the time of your appointment maybe you can do something fun before hand, like go to the park or the mall.

Does your child have a comfort toy or blanket? You may want to bring them to the appointment for your child to hold. Or you may want to have them on you for afterwards.

Very important, lots of hugs and hi-fives from you.

Preparing For Your Child’s Recovery

Be sure to follow your pediatric dentist’s instructions about antibiotics and pain medication.

Soft, cold foods are a good idea to have on hand. Pudding, ices, ice cream are good for right afterwards.

Tips For An Uneventful Recovery

Eat only soft, cool, easy foods for the first 24 hours.
No rinsing, no spitting, no drinking through straws or sippy cups for the first 3 days.
No hot, spicy, or acidic foods for the first 24 hours.
No eating seeds, nuts, chips, popcorn, pretzels, dry crumbly, chewy foods for the first week,
The area will be numb from the local anesthetic. Watch your child does not bite or suck on their lip, cheek, or tongue.
Instead of a toothbrush, use a soft wet washcloth with toothpaste to clean your child’s mouth for the first 2 days.
Minimize swelling by applying a cold pack wrapped in a towel to the cheek for periods of 10 minutes on/10 minutes off at a time for the rest of the day after the extraction.
Keep fingers out of their mouth and keep their tongue away from the extraction site.
No soda.
No sports, bicycle riding, swimming for the first 2 days.
Follow all additional after treatment instructions given to you by your pediatric dentist.
If your child has any complaints, there’s bleeding from the site, your child starts to run a fever, or something doesn’t look right to you call your pediatric dentist.

What To Eat After A Tooth Extraction

Eat soft, cool, and easy foods that protect the newly healing extraction site like ~

Apple sauce,
Yogurt,
Mashed Bananas,
Mashed Avocado, Mashed veggies,
Mashed Potatoes,
Scrambled eggs,
Oatmeal, pastina,
Mac and Cheese, pasta,
Soup.

Taking It Easy After A Tooth Extraction

After the tooth has been removed, a blood clot forms in the site (aka tooth socket). The clot needs to take hold and become firm inside the socket. This blood clot plays an important part in the healing process.

A clot that doesn’t become firm will continue to bleed and disrupt the healing process. If this happens you need to go back and have the non-healing clot removed and start all over again. This is why the after care instructions are important.

Activities After A Tooth Extraction

Plan some fun activities your child will like for after their tooth extraction and those you know will help with their healing~

Choose a favorite book to read,
Watch a movie,
Go out for ice cream,
Visit Grandma or Auntie,
Crafts, painting, coloring,
Go to the mall,
Screen time,
Rest, maybe take a nap.

What To Remember

Having a tooth extracted can be an intimidating experience for both you and your child. This procedure can be made less frightening if you have a plan in place from the start.

My Tooth Was Sick So My Dentist Sent It To The Tooth Fairy Early

Has your child had a tooth extracted? Do you think you were prepared for their extraction? How did you prepare your child to have a tooth removed? Tell Us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Chat with us and Like Us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

Geographic Tongue in Children: What Parents Should Know

September 12, 2024September 11, 2024 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

I Have My Mom's Tongue, Like Mother Like Daughter — I Have My Mom’s Tongue, Like Mother Like Daughter

You’re having a regular day and while talking with your child you notice their tongue looks strange.

As you look closer you ask them if anything is bothering them. Your child says no but you’re starring at their tongue.

When they stick out their tongue it looks like there’s a map stamped on their tongue. Now you’re thinking, what’s this?

Today, we’re breaking down the basics on a tongue appearance variation called geographic tongue.

What Is Geographic Tongue?

Geographic tongue goes by a few other very technical and official sounding names like benign migratory glossitis and erythema migrans.

Our tongues are not smooth. Feel your own tongue. They are bumpy, and these bumps are due to our tastebuds. We have 3 different types of tastebuds that cover all the surfaces of our tongue in different arrangements.

Depending on the set-up of certain tastebuds on the top and/or sides of the tongue you will see different patterns.

These patterns are called geographic tongue, and make the tongue look like a map.

How Many Tastebuds Do We Have?

On average 10,000 tastebuds. That’s a lot of tastebuds! and children can have more.

What Does Geographic Tongue Look Like?

Geographic tongue can be seen on the top and/or on the sides of the tongue. This appears as smooth tongue colored (or reddish looking) areas surrounded by a white (or off white) border.

Does Geographic Tongue Always Look The Same?

It doesn’t. The pattern on the tongue is random. How and when the appearance changes is based on the tastebuds.

How Long Does Geographic Tongue Last?

Geographic tongue can last a few days to weeks to months. It can last years without changing. These patterns don’t cause tongue scarring.

My Roadmap Tongue Doesn't Look Like A Roadmap Anymore — I Like To Show Off My Tongue

What Causes Geographic Tongue?

While there is no known exact cause for geographic tongue, it is known to run in families.

Is Geographic Tongue Painful?

No. Geographic tongue generally doesn’t cause any pain or discomfort.

How Do You Treat Geographic Tongue?

Since there is no pain or discomfort there is no recommended treatment.

I Have My Daddy's Tongue — I Have My Daddy’s Tongue

My Tongue Doesn't Look Like A Map Anymore — I Have My Daddy’s Tongue

How Did My Child Get Geographic Tongue?

Anyone can develop geographic tongue, from babies to toddlers to school age children to adolescents to adults; and it can also run in families.

A Pediatric Dentist’s Experience With Geographic Tongue

I recently had a new family join my practice family. This was their first visit to my office. While the parents and I were going over their children’s medical, dental and family histories, Dad said “I dare you to find what’s unique about my child’s mouth.”

After ensuring there wasn’t anything of concern or urgent, the Dad said “tell me what you see.”

Well, can you guess what I saw? Yes, you guessed it! One of the children has geographic tongue.

Then before I could ask, Mom asked if I had any questions. Sure I had questions, and the first one I asked was “Did Mom or did Dad have geographic tongue?”

Can you guess which parent has geographic tongue? It’s Mom, Mom has geographic tongue, and so does Mom’s Mom.

What To Remember

As a parent, it can be surprising to see unusual patterns on your child’s tongue. However, it’s important to know that while geographic tongue may look different it is not serious or contagious, and does not pose any health risks. In most cases, no treatment is necessary.

Taking A Selfie To Show Off My Special Tongue

Have you seen geographic tongue? Have you been told your child has geographic tongue? Does geographic tongue run in your family? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@kidstoothhotline Chat with Us and Like Us on Facebook

More Tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

Create a Stress-Free Bedtime Routine for Your Child The 4B’s Method

September 5, 2024September 5, 2024 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

Our Teacher Is Reading Us A Story About Brushing Our Teeth

Brushing Teeth Like Daddy — Our Teacher Is Reading Us A Story About Brushing Our Teeth

An exciting new school year is here and now is the time for your child’s big, healthy smile to shine.

Making your nightly routine enjoyable for your child so they’ll want to take care of their teeth is a good way to start!

Be creative with your own pre-brushing toothbrushing dance, sing some favorite tunes together to help brushing time fly by, buy yummy flavored colorful flossers and have your child choose their color and flavor of the night, and set aside reading time with their best book.

Today we’re talking about tips to setup your routine for motivating your child to take care of their teeth.

The 4B’s For Your Nightly Bedtime Routine

The new school year has started and you’re putting together everyone’s new routine making sure your child starts and ends their day in a healthy way.

Where do you start? Easy, with the 4B’s.

The 4B’s are the key to a consistent bedtime routine for both of you to enjoy together. This helps you to turn challenges into an easy routine and protecting those precious teeth in a big way.

So What Are The 4B’s?

The 4B’s are ~

Bath,
Brush,
Book,
Bed.

Suggestions To Include The 4B’s Into Your Routine

Bath

Low key bath time along with comfy and cozy pjs helps your child to start to relax and wind down from their day.

Depending on how long you both like bath time to linger build that time into your schedule and start earlier before they start rubbing their eyes and you feel rushed.

Brush

Brushing for 2 minutes with a soft wet cloth or favorite soft tooth brush while singing your favorite brushing song puts brushing in a whole new stress free light.

Once their teeth touch each other it’s time to floss.

Remember, nothing to eat or drink after brushing keeps the sugar bugs away.

Book

Children love the sound of their parent’s voice.

Spend together time reading their favorite good night book in your special place, make up your own stories, or use silly voices to tell the story. Your child can follow along as you read to them, they can read to you, or you can make up fun stories together.

Sharing books and being together at the end of the day, even for 15 minutes builds memories and skills you’ll both cherish forever.

As your child gets sleepy it’s book away and into bed.

We Love To Read With Our Mom and Dad After We Brush And Floss

Yes I Still Love It When My Mom and Dad Tuck Me In — We Love To Read With Our Mom and Dad After We Brush And Floss

Bed

Setting a regular bed time and tucking your child in with hugs and kisses for sweet dreams and a restful night’s sleep with clean sparkling teeth helps the whole family have a relaxing night and stress free morning.

The Benefits Of The 4B Routine

These 4B’s will help you create a consistent healthy sleep routine for bed time success allowing your child to settle down for a good night’s sleep, good learning in school, and the added benefit of regular toothbrushing time.

What To Remember

YOU have the power. You can do this!

Set a consistent bath and bed time and stick to it,
Let your child choose their favorite color for their toothbrush, so they feel they’ve made a decision in the process!
Don’t forget to Floss,
Encourage your child to pick out their favorite book or two to read with you before lights out.

From each of us at Kidstoothhotline to you, our Best Wishes for Happy and Healthy Smiles this School Year!

What color is your child’s toothbrush? Which cartoon characters talk about the importance of a healthy mouth? Who’s your superstar brusher? We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Chat with Us and Like Us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

Effective Braces Cleaning: Keeping Your Child’s Teeth and Braces Healthy

August 29, 2024August 28, 2024 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

My Elastics Color Pops With My Clean Teeth And Braces — My Elastic’s Color Pops With My Clean Teeth And Braces

Your child has their braces on and you’re settling into your new normal. Now you’re facing the dreaded “I don’t want to brush.”

You’ve heard about cavities after braces and want to avoid this for your child. So brushing and flossing is more important than ever.

Now you’re thinking about how to explain and show them what to do; especially if you didn’t have braces.

Today we’re breaking down the basics on tooth brushing and flossing when your child has braces.

Can You Clean Teeth With Braces On?

Yes and your child should, especially with braces.

Having braces on makes it feel like it’s more difficult to keep your child’s teeth clean. It can be difficult to go around the archwires and brackets, but remember how extremely important it is to keep your child’s mouth as clean as possible.

Clean Teeth And Braces For Our Happiest Smiles

Clean Teeth And Clean Braces Is A Great Feeling — Clean Teeth And Braces For Our Happiest Smiles

Why It’s Important To Take Care Of Teeth With Braces

While it feels like it’s more difficult to keep your child’s teeth clean, there are 2 influencers that play a role ~

The Plaque Aspect

Plaque and tarter are sneaky and attach themselves to the teeth, as well onto, around and under the brackets, wires, and bands. When plaque and food get trapped and sit around teeth and braces, there is a high likely-hood of bad breath, their gums becoming inflamed, cavities developing, or teeth discoloring.

The Time Aspect

The time factor is made up of 2 components ~

How long your child will be in braces,
How much time it takes to floss and brush with braces on. This takes more time and effort to properly and fully clean around each bracket, band and wire, however it doesn’t take as long as you think it will.

Taking Care Of Teeth At Home When Your Child Has Braces

Here are some basic things you can do at home to help keep your child’s teeth and braces clean ~

BRUSH, BRUSH, And BRUSH SOME MORE – It’s essential to keep up with your regular 2Minutes 2X’s A Day brushing routine. What boosts your game is adding brushing after each meal and snack.
HOW YOU BRUSH AND WHAT YOU USE MATTERS – Hold their toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to remove plaque and food from around the teeth and braces. Hand held soft bristle tooth brushes are a good choice. Electric toothbrushes vary in styles and features. If you’re looking into an electric toothbrush decide of what you’re comfortable using. Curved, circular or interdental brushes can make it easier to access the areas around their braces and help you get a good cleaning. It’s best to use non-metal containing brushes to avoid scratching the teeth and braces.
REMEMBER TO FLOSS – Flossing is as necessary as brushing. Flossing is tricky but important when your child has braces. You can start with a piece of floss 18″-20” long (yes that long). Slide one end of the floss under their archwire so you have equal amounts above and below the wire. Floss gently around the bracket and in-between their teeth. Gently slide the floss out from under the wire. Clean the floss with a wash cloth and then floss the next tooth. Remember to floss behind the most back teeth.
CLEAN THEIR TONGUE – Food and plaque get trapped in the crevices on the tongue. Have them stick their tongue out (a comfortable amount) and gently brush their tongue in a back to front motion with a soft bristle tooth-brush (no toothpaste needed) or with a tongue scrapper.
RINSE – If there’s no time to brush after lunch or snacks then have them swish and rinse their mouth with water. This way the food residue will be dislodged.

My Dentist Can't Believe How Clean My Teeth And Braces Are — My Dentist Can’t Believe How Clean My Teeth And Braces Are

Smiling Is Fun With My Clean Teeth and Braces — My Dentist Can’t Believe How Clean My Teeth And Braces Are

What To Remember

Taking care of your child’s teeth and gums is always important, and crucial during the time they have braces. A consistent daily oral hygiene routine including brushing, flossing, cleaning their tongue and rinsing helps to protect their teeth from potential dental issues and insure their healthy smile.

Not Worrying About How My Teeth Look In Pictures Is The Best — Rocking My Healthy Smile

How is your child’s oral hygiene routine going? Or isn’t it going? What do you think would make this easier? Tell Us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothotline@proton.me Chat with Us and Like Us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

Are Your Child’s Teeth Ready For The Tooth Fairy?

August 22, 2024August 21, 2024 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You To Know

The Tooth Fairy Came For My Tooth Last Night

The sheer mention of the Tooth Fairy brings out such joy and excitement in all of us. No matter if your child is about to lose their first tooth or you’re a pro the thought of a visit sparks amazing anticipation.

The slightest suggestion the Tooth Fairy will visit causes such happiness and wonder that a special day has been set aside to honor our tooth loving friend. And that day is today!

Yes today, August 22 is Tooth Fairy Day!

Who Is The Tooth Fairy?

The Tooth Fairy is a magical fairy who visits children when they lose a tooth and leaves them a gift if their tooth is healthy and clean.

The Tooth Fairy Always Has Her Basket Of Teeth

A Poem From The Tooth Fairy To You

As pediatric dentists we are very close friends with the Tooth Fairy. So close in fact that she’s written a poem for us to share with you in honor of her special day.

My Dearest Friend,
I saw you wiggling in your mouth and knew a tooth would soon be mine
You kept it close thinking you'd stay up all night long
Then you drifted off to sleep and I began my fairy flight
So into your bedroom I did come upon my fairy wings
When I took a peek I found my favorite thing
Now off I go, I have to dash
I hope you'll send me other teeth but there is no rush
And remember my dearest friend, every time you lose a tooth 
another takes its place for you to floss and brush
Most Sincerely,
Your friend in teeth,
The Tooth Fairy

When To Anticipate Your Child’s First Tooth Fairy Visit

Losing baby teeth is an exciting time for children. Their baby teeth will begin to get looser and looser, eventually falling out, and be replaced by their adult teeth.

This usually begins around 6-7 years old for most children. However, some parents may start seeing loose baby teeth when their child is 4 1/2 years old.

There are 2 things we often see that are helpful for you as a parent to know ~

The earlier baby teeth come in, the earlier the Tooth Fairy visits.
Girls teeth may come in a little earlier than boy’s teeth.

Celebrating A Tooth Fairy Visit

Some fun tips to prepare for your child’s tooth fairy visit ~

Have a Tooth Fairy pillow or door hanger with a pocket to hold their tooth ready for Tooth Fairy pickup.
Your child can write a letter to the Tooth Fairy, and sometimes she answers that letter and includes some of her magical fairy glitter.
Money may be expected, sometimes though the Tooth Fairy leaves a tooth friendly gift that she would really like your child to use. Since this gift is from the Tooth Fairy it gives your child more encouragement to use this.
You may feel that you want to give your child a money gift. Sparkles and money may be the way to go. Place your gift in a home made decorated envelop and add in some magical tooth fairy glitter.
The Tooth Fairy always has her trusty wand to help scoop up those precious teeth. Sometimes a tired Tooth Fairy may leave behind her wand which gets found in their bedroom the next day.
Keep a tooth Fairy journal for you and your child to write about how they lost their teeth, how old they were, the present they received, and what they did with their prize, and any other special notes or pictures you may want to add.
Reinforce positive oral hygiene habits with the Tooth Fairy as a way to achieve this; because the Tooth Fairy (like Santa) always knows.
Think about creating your own family traditions and customs knowing the magic and excitement of the tradition will likely be more important to your child than any monetary amount!

The Tooth Fairy Is Always Welcome To Visit Our Home

What To Remember

Today you can remember your own joyful memories of your Tooth Fairy visits, when your newly lost tooth was exchanged for a surprise when you looked under your pillow the next morning. Sharing and passing along these memories with your children is a priceless way to create new and endearing memories for both of you. Happy Tooth Fairy Day!

What are your favorite Tooth Fairy memories? How do you prepare for your child’s Tooth Fairy visit? What treasure does your Tooth Fairy leave? What do you think the Tooth Fairy does with the teeth she gathers up each night? We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@protonmail.me Chat with us and Like Us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

My Dearest Friend,
I saw you wiggling in your mouth and knew a tooth would soon be mine
You kept it close thinking you’d stay up all night long
Then you drifted off to sleep and I began my fairy flight
So into your bedroom I did come upon my fairy wings
When I took a peek I found my favorite thing
Now off I go, I have to dash
I hope you’ll send me other teeth but there is no big rush
And remember my dearest friend, every time you lose a tooth another takes its place for you to floss and brush
Most Sincerely,
Your friend in teeth,
The Tooth Fairy

What To Do When Your Child’s Broken Braces Wire Is Poking Their Cheek

August 15, 2024August 13, 2024 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

You know how it is, the day is going great, everyone is happy and everything is going along smoothly.

Then you hear “Mom, my braces are poking me!!”

Now you’re thinking how did this happen and what can I do to fix it?

Today we’re breaking down the basics on how you can handle the pesky pokey braces wire to help give your child some relief.

Braces 101

Archwires, brackets and elastics are the 3 main components of braces.

Brackets are attached to teeth with a tooth colored material which is similar to (but not the same as) a tooth colored filling. Brackets have openings (aka slots) into which the wire fits. The elastics go around the bracket and hold the wire in place.

Why Are The Wires Called Archwires?

The wires are called archwires because your child top teeth make up their top jaw or upper arch, and their lower teeth comprise their bottom jaw or lower arch.

When the wire is placed into the orthodontic brackets on their top jaw this is their upper archwire, and when the wire is placed on their bottom jaw it is their lower archwire.

What Do Archwires Do?

The archwire is the metal wire which connects all the brackets on the teeth together and curves around the teeth from front to back. The wire corrects teeth alignment and other irregularities to reposition and make your child’s teeth straight.

My Child’s Archwire Is Poking Their Cheek, What Should I Do?

You can use a Q-tip to push the wire so that it is flat against the tooth.

If you can’t position the wire so that it’s comfortable position, place a piece of the wax your orthodontist gave you over the wire where it’s poking your child’s cheek.

Then call your orthodontist to let them know and see your child.

What Is Wax For Braces?

Dental wax is usually made from one or a combination of several waxes, mostly beeswax, carnauba wax, and/or paraffin wax.

Dental wax can also be found under a few different names, including tooth wax, braces wax, and orthodontic wax.

The wax can be applied to create a smooth protective barrier between your child’s mouth and the area of the wire that is causing discomfort.

Similarly, dental wax can be an excellent at-home remedy for relief and protection when a wire has come out of a place. Applying a small piece of dental wax can act as a protective barrier until your orthodontist can correct the issue.

How To Use Wax For Braces

First have your child brush their teeth (or you brush their teeth) to make sure the wire itself is clean, especially the part where you’ll be placing the wax.

After brushing, with clean hands gently pull their cheek away from the area where the pokey wire is. They can wiggle their lower jaw to the side where you’ll be placing the wax to allow you to see better.

Take off a new, unused piece of wax about the size of a small green pea and roll it into a ball. Place the wax where the wire is poking out or causing irritation.

The wax should reduce pain or irritation caused by the wire. Make sure to remove the wax when eating or brushing teeth and then reapply new, unused wax as needed or until you see your orthodontist.

Why Do Archwires Become Loose?

Sometimes a wire can break depending on the food your child eats, as their teeth are moved, if they get hit in the mouth while playing sports (and not wearing a mouth guard), or the wires might be too long in the back of their mouth.

Your child may feel a pokey archwire coming in contact with their gums or cheeks. If this happens. the wires can cause small mouth sores or cuts on the gums and cheek, so it’s important to take action right away.

My Orthodontist Is Removing The Wax From My Broken Brace's Wire — My Orthodontist Is Removing The Wax From My Broken Brace’s Wire

My Broken Wire Is Really Bothering My Cheek — My Orthodontist Is Removing The Wax From My Broken Brace’s Wire

Foods To Avoid With Braces

During the time your child is in braces it is important to use caution when eating certain foods and snacks which put their braces at risk.

So what are these foods that can pop off or dislodge an archwire?

Anything that is hard, or sticky, or gooey, or chewy,
Chewing gum,
Nuts and seeds
Popcorn
Want to eat a bagel or an apple? Instead of biting in, cut the food into bitesize pieces and eat on their back teeth.

What To Remember

It is expected during the course of your child’s braces the wires will pull out and cause poking.

These are 3 steps to help you to help your child stay comfortable ~

Stay calm and check things out – look in their mouth to see what’s happening. If you can, with a clean finger try to move the wire away from their cheek back towards the teeth.
Always keep the small container of orthodontic wax handy. Take a small green pea size amount of wax and roll it with your fingers into a ball and place it over the end of the poky wire,.
Never hesitate to call your orthodontist, no matter how many times this may happen.

Remember to remove the wax before eating and brushing, and don’t reuse the wax. Once you remove it you’ll need a new piece of wax.

What’s been your experience with poking wires? Does wax do the trick for comfort until your child’s next orthodontic appointment? How often do poky wires occur? Tell Us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Chat with us and Like Us on Facebook

I May Be Smiling But The Wire Poking My Cheek Really Hurts

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

Why Does My Child Need Braces? Aren’t They Too Young?

August 8, 2024August 7, 2024 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the know for You to Know

As parents we love that cute adorable stage when our child’s teeth are white picket fence perfect.

Then they start losing their baby teeth and their adult teeth start coming in and they don’t look as perfectly positioned.

When you talk with some other parents they’re saying the same thing but some are making appointments to have their child examined by an orthodontist.

You know your child’s dental check-up is coming up and you think to yourself that you’ll bring it up then.

Today we’re breaking down the basics on when a child should be evaluated for possible braces.

Braces Evaluation For Children, Helping Develop A Healthy Smile

For children (and adults) oral health is a window into their overall health.

Potential orthodontic treatment can be an important part of your child’s oral health care. Teeth that are correctly positioned make for confident smiles as well as eating and chewing properly.

Starting Early

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation around the age of 7, or when a potential problem is recognized.

It’s important to remember there is a big difference between an orthodontic consultation and actually beginning orthodontic treatment.

So Why Age 7?

This is because around the age of 7 years old, children have a combination of baby teeth and permanent teeth.

An examination with an orthodontist at this age provides a lot of information. If a problem exists, or if one is developing, then the orthodontist can advise you on what treatment is recommended, when it should begin, and estimate how long it will last.

However, if you notice something, it’s not necessary to wait until your child turns 7 years old.

Should Your Child Be Evaluated For Braces? Signs To Check For

The first step is to look inside your child’s mouth.

A few things to look out for ~

Crooked teeth,
Too many teeth in a too small mouth,
Difficulty flossing and brushing,
Frequently biting the inside of their cheek,
Jaw discomfort or a clicking sound when chewing or jaw pain upon waking,
Losing baby teeth early or late,
Adult teeth coming in early with no room or coming in late,
Problems with chewing food,
An underbite, An overbite, A deep bite,
Mouth breathing,
Thumb or finger sucking,
Missing teeth or extra teeth.

3 Reasons Why This Matters

Losing Baby teeth either too early or too late can cause problems for the permanent teeth to come into your child’s mouth.
How teeth come together is important for the life of the tooth. In what is considered “a good bite” the outside surface of the upper teeth prevent the cheeks from getting caught between the chewing surfaces with the bottom and top back teeth. If the teeth aren’t matched up, this can cause constant cheek biting and prevent a child from wanting to eat.
Bite problems can over time also lead to jaw problems such as pain, clicking, popping, or locking.

My Mom And Dad Are Talking About Braces For Me

I Got My Braces Last Christmas — My Mom And Dad Are Talking About Braces For Me

What Is The Purpose Of Evaluating My Child’s Bite When They’re So Young?

Parents want their child to have healthy teeth and a good bite. To have this means that they need to have 2 things, good tooth alignment and good jaw position.

4 Benefits Of Early Braces Evaluation

Starting at an earlier age can help avoid more complicated and lengthy treatments when a child is older.
Most children will have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, so the way their permanent teeth come in can be evaluated and potential issues can be addressed such as a cross-bite, crowding, or impacted teeth.
Proactive steps can be an advantage for younger children to correct issues as their jaws grow utilizing interceptive treatments such as palatal expanders.
A beautiful smile can boost a child’s self-esteem and confidence.

What Will I Learn From A Consultation With An Orthodontist?

The orthodontist will examine your child and discuss with you when it will be best for your child to begin treatment as well as the type of treatment they are recommending.

Each child has their own specific individual treatment needs. For some children starting early when they still have baby teeth may be best for them. Other children may benefit from some extra growing time and waiting until they’ve lost their baby teeth. Some children may wait until they have all their adult teeth to begin braces.

Depending on your child’s needs, they may be evaluated every 6 months or 1 year to watch their growth and development progress to take advantage of their natural growth.

Why Would An Orthodontist Recommend Early Treatment?

Early treatment is a proactive and valuable way to address some issues so they don’t become more involved long term problems.

4 Reasons An Orthodontist May Recommend Early Treatment

Create room in a child’s mouth to decrease crowding for adult teeth,
Help with facial growth,
Preserve space when baby teeth are lost early and adult teeth aren’t ready to come in
Decrease trauma risk for protruding top front teeth.

What To Remember

There is a big difference between an orthodontic consultation and actually beginning braces.

An evaluation when your child has a combination of baby teeth and adult teeth doesn’t always mean that they’re getting braces right away. If and/or when treatment is needed, it can begin at the appropriate time for your child.

Love To Show Off My Brace's Smile — Cool Braces To Match My Cool Shades

Do you feel like braces runs in your family? Have you thought to yourself that since you had braces your child will also? Did you want braces as a child but didn’t have them and you want to make sure that your child doesn’t feel the way? Have you thought about getting braces as an adult? Do you have braces now? Tell Us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Chat with us and Like Us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re her just for kids!

My Child Has A Pimple On Their Gums, Why Does Their Tooth Have An Abscess?

August 1, 2024July 31, 2024 ~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

Everything is going according to plan with your at home toothbrushing and flossing routine.

Then your child comes to you and says their tooth and/or their gums hurt, or they’ve been up at night crying needing pain medicine, or when you look inside their mouth you see a pimple on their gums, or you notice their face is swollen.

You’re thinking, what is this?, why did this happen?, and what do I do?

These are some signs of children’s tooth infections, also known as an abscess, and need to be taken seriously.

Today we’re breaking down the basics on abscesses involving children’s teeth.

What Is A Tooth Abscess?

A tooth abscess is an infection. The abscess is buildup of pus that looks like a red, swollen bump or pimple on the gums.

The most common type of abscess involving children’s teeth is a periapical abscess, which is a bacterial infection.

This type of infection forms when the bacteria from a cavity or fractured tooth spread from the outermost layer of tooth enamel through the to the nerve (aka pulp) of the tooth and out of the tooth to the area around the tooth that is in the bone.

There are 2 other types of abscesses which are ~

A gingival abscess starts in the gum tissue and does not touch nearby teeth. There are some medical conditions which cause this type of abscess to occur. A popcorn kernel stuck in the gums is also a likely cause of this type of abscess
A periodontal abscess is located in the gum tissue and alongside the root of a tooth. This is less often seen in children and is most commonly seen in adults.

Why Do Children’s Teeth Abscess?

Cavities are caused by bacteria. When cavities go untreated they grow bigger which allows more bacteria to grow through a tooth.

In some cases a broken tooth can lead to an infection. When a tooth is broken the inner parts of a tooth are exposed and bacteria grows into and through these unprotected tooth layers.

When the bacteria reach the pulp of a tooth, the pulp becomes inflamed, starts to die, and the infection begins.

In addition, there are other instances when there is an accident (aka tooth trauma) and a tooth is hit and/or moved out of place, which can disturb or break the nerve and lead to an infection.

What Are The Signs Of A Tooth Abcess To Look For?

A child’s symptoms depends on several factors including how long the pain has been bothering them and how far the infection has spread.

Also be on the look out for ~

Pain in the affected tooth may come on suddenly and increase quickly to severe pain (and possibly in other teeth, their ear, their jaw, their neck, their temples, and/or their eyes),
Pain mostly at night when they are lying down,
Decrease in eating and drinking,
Temperature sensitivity,
Sensitivity to pressure placed on the affected tooth,
Tooth mobility,
Color change in the affected tooth (e.g., the tooth turning brown or black),
Swelling and/or redness in the gums around the tooth,
Facial swelling,
Their tongue feeling like it doesn’t fit in the bottom of their mouth,
Swollen lymph nodes under the child’s jaw or in their neck,
Bad breath,
Bad taste in their mouth,
Fever,
Feeling sick.

Mommy And Daddy Please Make My Tooth Stop Hurting — Daddy, Why Is My Face Swollen?

Can An Abscess In A Baby Tooth Affect The Permanent Tooth?

Yes.

Abscesses in baby teeth can affect the development of permanent teeth growing underneath the baby tooth and lead to discoloration, weakened enamel, malformed or mottling of the adult tooth.

Do Children’s Tooth Abscesses Go Away On Their Own?

No.

An abscess in a child’s tooth will not go away on its own.

The pus bubble may pop BUT that does NOT mean that the infection has gone away.

Even if your child’s symptoms appear to be improving, this does not mean that the abscess is healing, an abscessed tooth still requires dental treatment.

In fact the infection will come back worse (and it does) because the bacteria continue to grow causing more pain and swelling.

At the first sign of pain and/or swelling you need to contact your pediatric dentist or pediatrician right away.

When left untreated the infection will not only affect other teeth, it will become a medical emergency.

Daddy's Taking You To The Dentist To Check Your Gums — Daddy’s Taking You To The Dentist To Check Your Gums

Mommy And Daddy Are Taking You To The Dentist To Make Your Tooth Stop Hurting — Daddy’s Taking You To The Dentist To Check Your Gums

Are Antibiotics Needed For A Child’s Tooth Abscess?

In most cases a child will first be prescribed antibiotics to control the infection and reduce swelling so that treatment can be performed.

Contact your pediatric dentist or pediatrician to have your child examined for them to determine the best course of antibiotic treatment for your child.

Can A Child’s Tooth Abscess Turn Into An Emergency?

Yes.

If you suspect your child may have a tooth abscess, call your child’s dentist’s office right away and tell them your child’s symptoms.

If left untreated, a tooth abscess can spread to other parts of the body, potentially leading to serious medical complications.

There are times when a tooth abscess can lead to life-threatening conditions.

If your child is experiencing difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, swelling in their neck, facial swelling or other potentially life-threatening conditions, you should first seek immediate treatment at your closest hospital’s emergency room.

What To Remember

Abscesses occur as a result of prior injury to a tooth or untreated cavities.

They can affect the development of your child’s permanent teeth.

These infections do not heal on their own and become serious very quickly.

A child’s symptoms depends on a several things in addition to how long the pain has been bothering them and how far the infection has spread.

It’s important to watch for any of the symptoms I’ve described above, and to contact your pediatric dentist or pediatrician immediately with your child’s first complaint.

I Don't Want To Play Because My Tooth Hurts — I Don’t Want To Play Because My Tooth Hurts

Do you know a child who has had a tooth abscess? or a dental infection? We hope that everyone is okay, what needed to be done to take care of the infection? Have you ever had an infected tooth? Tell Us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Chat with us and Like Us on Facebook

More tips? We have lots. We’re here just for kids!

Is It Normal For A Toddler’s Gums To Bleed?

What Causes Bleeding Gums For Toddlers?

Are Bleeding Gums And Gingivitis The Same Thing?

What Are The Signs Of Gingivitis In Toddlers?

Can A Toddler Have Gum Disease?

How To Treat And Prevent Bleeding Gums For Toddlers?

What To Remember

If this is helpful for You Please Share:

Eating An Apple Is Almost Like Using A Toothbrush

How Is This Possible?

Apples Are Great Snacks

10 Fun Apple Facts

If this is helpful for You Please Share:

Why Do Children Need To Have Teeth Taken Out?

Prepare Yourself

Preparing Your Child

Staying Positive And How To Respond To Your Child’s Questions About Why Their Tooth Needs To Be Extracted

Your Child’s Treatment Day

Preparing For Your Child’s Recovery

Tips For An Uneventful Recovery

What To Eat After A Tooth Extraction

Taking It Easy After A Tooth Extraction

Activities After A Tooth Extraction

What To Remember

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What Is Geographic Tongue?

How Many Tastebuds Do We Have?

What Does Geographic Tongue Look Like?

Does Geographic Tongue Always Look The Same?

How Long Does Geographic Tongue Last?

What Causes Geographic Tongue?

Is Geographic Tongue Painful?

How Do You Treat Geographic Tongue?

How Did My Child Get Geographic Tongue?

A Pediatric Dentist’s Experience With Geographic Tongue

What To Remember

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The 4B’s For Your Nightly Bedtime Routine

So What Are The 4B’s?

Suggestions To Include The 4B’s Into Your Routine

Bath

Brush

Book

Bed

The Benefits Of The 4B Routine

What To Remember

If this is helpful for You Please Share:

Can You Clean Teeth With Braces On?

Why It’s Important To Take Care Of Teeth With Braces

The Plaque Aspect

The Time Aspect

Taking Care Of Teeth At Home When Your Child Has Braces

What To Remember

If this is helpful for You Please Share:

Who Is The Tooth Fairy?

A Poem From The Tooth Fairy To You

When To Anticipate Your Child’s First Tooth Fairy Visit

Celebrating A Tooth Fairy Visit

What To Remember

If this is helpful for You Please Share:

Braces 101

Why Are The Wires Called Archwires?

What Do Archwires Do?

My Child’s Archwire Is Poking Their Cheek, What Should I Do?

What Is Wax For Braces?

How To Use Wax For Braces

Why Do Archwires Become Loose?

Foods To Avoid With Braces

What To Remember

If this is helpful for You Please Share:

Braces Evaluation For Children, Helping Develop A Healthy Smile

Starting Early

So Why Age 7?

Should Your Child Be Evaluated For Braces? Signs To Check For

3 Reasons Why This Matters

What Is The Purpose Of Evaluating My Child’s Bite When They’re So Young?

4 Benefits Of Early Braces Evaluation

What Will I Learn From A Consultation With An Orthodontist?

Why Would An Orthodontist Recommend Early Treatment?

4 Reasons An Orthodontist May Recommend Early Treatment