Category: Children’s Oral Health Care

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

~ kidstoothhotline

In the know for You to Know

Living My Best Life With Braces
Living My Best Life With Braces

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

  1. Losing Baby teeth either too early or too late can cause problems for the permanent teeth to come into your child’s mouth.
  2. 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.
  3. 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
My Mom And Dad Are Talking About Braces For Me
I Got My Braces Last Christmas
I Got My Braces Last Christmas
Still Getting Used To My Braces But I Like How My Teeth Are Looking
Still Getting Used To My Braces But I Like How My Teeth Are Looking
I'm So Happy When I Look At My Teeth
I’m So Happy When I Look At My Teeth
Checking Out My Braces
Checking Out My Braces

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

  1. Starting at an earlier age can help avoid more complicated and lengthy treatments when a child is older.
  2. 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.
  3. Proactive steps can be an advantage for younger children to correct issues as their jaws grow utilizing interceptive treatments such as palatal expanders.
  4. 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

  1. Create room in a child’s mouth to decrease crowding for adult teeth,
  2. Help with facial growth,
  3. Preserve space when baby teeth are lost early and adult teeth aren’t ready to come in
  4. 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.

Cool Braces To Match My Cool Shades
Cool Braces To Match My Cool Shades
Love To Show Off My Brace's Smile
Love To Show Off My Brace’s Smile
Wearing My Braces To Prom
Wearing My Braces To Prom
Loving The Color Of My New Brace's Elastics
Loving The Color Of My New Brace’s Elastics

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 Pediatric Dentist Said My Child Has Hypoplastic Teeth, What Are Hypoplastic Teeth?

~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

Daddy Says To Smile Pretty Since The Spots On My Front Teeth Are Better Than The One's On My Back Teeth
Daddy Says To Smile Pretty Since The Spots On My Front Teeth Are Better Than The One’s On My Back Teeth

You feel like you’re in a good place keeping up with your child’s twice a day tooth brushing routine. Flossing and brushing is going really well so you know what’s going on with their teeth and gums.

Then you notice there are some spots on their teeth which you didn’t notice before and you’re wondering what they are and why they’re there.

Thinking back to your child’s last dental check-up you remember hearing about the areas of hypoplasia on their teeth. Since they didn’t have any cavities you thought everything was all right.

Now you’re thinking, why does my child’s teeth have these spots and what caused them?

Today we’re breaking down the basics about the spots on children’s teeth which is called enamel hypoplasia.

Tooth Basics

Enamel is the hard outermost layer of teeth and the hardest substance in the human body.

Dental enamel needs to be hard because it forms an insulating barrier that protects the inner layers of the tooth from chewing and biting forces as well as sensitivity from hot and cold foods and drinks.

Dental Enamel Starts Developing Early

Around the time Mom’s are finding out that they are pregnant, tooth enamel is starting to form for baby teeth.

Tooth enamel continues to form as baby teeth develop during pregnancy. Around the time your baby is born the dental enamel begins to form for their adult teeth.

Adult tooth enamel continues to develop as these teeth form during early to middle childhood.

Any type of disruption to the enamel formation process will cause defects in the enamel, including hypoplasia.

What Is Hypoplasia?

Enamel hypoplasia is a developmental defect when tooth enamel doesn’t develop properly causing it to be too thin.

Enamel formation is a complex process of formation and timing. Any disruption leading up to the final step in completing the process can affect the thickness of the enamel layer.

What Causes Enamel Hypoplasia?

The enamel forming cells are precise and sensitive, so hypoplasia can affect a whole tooth, part of a tooth, some teeth, certain teeth or less commonly all the teeth.

Some factors which can cause hypoplastic teeth are ~

  • Premature birth,
  • Low birth weight,
  • Health concerns for Mom or Baby during pregnancy,
  • Health concerns for Baby after birth,
  • Failure to thrive, Malnutrition,
  • Certain bacterial or viral infections,
  • Dental trauma,
  • Fever,
  • Some early childhood diseases and/or chronic illness in the first few years of life,
  • Genetic conditions, such as Treacher Collins syndrome.

Does Enamel Hypoplasia Affect Baby Teeth And Adult Teeth?

Enamel hypoplasia can occur in both baby teeth and permanent teeth, depending on the timing of the disruption.

If enamel formation is disrupted during pregnancy, baby teeth can be affected with hypoplasia.

When the disruption occurs from birth through middle childhood, the permanent teeth which are developing at that time can be affected with hypoplasia.

We Thought The White Spots On My Teeth Were Supposed To Be There, They're Called Hypoplasia
We Thought The White Spots On My Teeth Were Supposed To Be There, They’re Called Hypoplasia
Mommy Says My Front Teeth Look Great But My Back Teeth Have Hypoplasia
Mommy Says My Front Teeth Look Great But My Back Teeth Have Hypoplasia
My Dentist Told My Mommy And Daddy That I Have Hypoplasia On Alot Of My Teeth
My Dentist Told My Mommy And Daddy That I Have Hypoplasia On Alot Of My Teeth

What Are The Signs Of Enamel Hypoplasia?

When looking at your child’s teeth some signs to check for to see if they have hypoplastic teeth are ~

  • White spots on teeth,
  • Teeth with ridges, grooves or pits,
  • Stained teeth or teeth that look yellow, brown, or grayish because the enamel is thin and the underlying dentin layer which is yellowish in color shows through,
  • Sensitive teeth due to the thinness of the enamel and the dentin being close to the surface,
  • Excessive enamel wear or enamel fracturing off,
  • Teeth that look mis-shaped,
  • Teeth that look like they have cavities.

Do You Treat Enamel Hypoplasia?

Yes, teeth with enamel hypoplasia do need to be treated.

Even teeth with mild hypoplasia, which may initially be a cosmetic concern, needs to be monitored since they can go on to become a significant dental issue due to the thin enamel.

In addition, the thinness of the enamel places children with hypoplastic teeth at more of a risk for developing cavities faster, having increased sensitivity to hot and cold foods, increased risk for tooth damage, and can impact the position of their teeth and their bite.

How Do You Treat Teeth With Enamel Hypoplasia?

Treatment for teeth with enamel hypoplasia depends on the tooth’s location in the mouth (front tooth or back molar), as well as the extent and severity of the hypoplasia.

For hypoplastic teeth where there is purely an aesthetic concern without any other dental complications, cosmetic treatment options can include ~

  • Fluoride treatments to help strengthen the enamel,
  • Tooth bonding where tooth colored materials are applied over the thin enamel,
  • When your child is older and has passed their last growth spurt, other esthetic restorations are a consideration.

For hypoplastic teeth that are more seriously involved including molars, treatment considerations may include ~

  • Desensitizing toothpaste,
  • Dental sealants,
  • Fillings, tooth colored bonded fillings don’t bond well to teeth with defects in the enamel and can come off or chip the enamel more, so there may be other options depending on the specific tooth involved,
  • Dental crowns,
  • Other restorations when your child has completely finished growing,
  • Orthodontic consultation.

What Can We Do At Home To Help The Hypoplasia From Getting Worse?

Some helpful suggestions for at home care ~

  • Brush teeth for 2 minutes every morning and 2 minutes every night before bed,
  • Floss every night before brushing teeth,
  • Use an alcohol-free fluoride mouth rinse every night after flossing and brushing. You can place a small amount in a disposable cup (enough to cover their tooth brush bristles) and dip their tooth brush into the fluoride rinse, then brush their teeth for 1 minute. If your child is old enough to spit out (and not swallow) then watch them as they swish for 1 minute and then spit out the rinse,
  • After meals, snacks and drinks rinse their mouths with plain water,
  • Water is the best beverage, serve it routinely and encourage your child to drink water,
  • Choose healthy snacks and meals to stay on track with their dental health.
My Mommy And Daddy Thought I Have A Cavity, But It's Called Enamel Hypoplasia
My Mommy And Daddy Thought I Have A Cavity, But It’s Called Enamel Hypoplasia
My Dentist Told My Parents The Spots On My Teeth Are Called Enamel Hypoplasia
My Dentist Told My Parents The Spots On My Teeth Are Called Enamel Hypoplasia
My Dentist Always Checks My Teeth Really Well Since I Have Enamel Hypoplasia
My Dentist Always Checks My Teeth Really Well Since I Have Enamel Hypoplasia
We Have To Take Very Good Care Of Your Teeth So The Hypoplasia Doesn't Get Worse
We Have To Take Very Good Care Of Your Teeth So The Hypoplasia Doesn’t Get Worse

What To Remember

Taking care of teeth with enamel hypoplasia is super important.

This is important because these teeth simply don’t have a thick enough enamel layer to protect them from cavities as well as pain and sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages.

Teeth use each other as a guide for their positioning and alignment. Thin enamel doesn’t provide the support teeth need to stay in place, so these teeth are more susceptible to being misaligned which affects a child’s bite.

Your twice daily at home care routines, healthy choices for meals, snacks and beverages, and regular dental visits are a good place to start to help protect your child’s teeth especially when they have enamel hypoplasia.

My Mom Says The Spots On My Teeth Are Called Hypoplasia
My Mom Says The Spots On My Teeth Are Called Hypoplasia

Have you been told your child has enamel hypoplasia? Does your child have another defect involving their tooth enamel? Have you been told your child has a different defect involving their teeth? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us on Facebook

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

Summer Vacation Tips for Healthy Teeth: Keep Your Child’s Smile Bright

~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

Mommy And Daddy, Did You Remember To Pack Our Toothbrushes And Flossers?
Mommy And Daddy, Did You Remember To Pack Our Toothbrushes And Flossers?

Summer is here and it’s time for long lazy days and fun foods. Whether your plans include traveling, a staycation, or sending your child to camp, it’s even more important to keep up your brushing and flossing routine.

Why? Ice cream, popsicles, summer foods and snacks always taste better with clean healthy teeth.

Today we’re breaking down the basics with summer vacation tips for healthy summer teeth.

Summer Vacation Tips

Brushing and flossing is important even in the summer, especially since children like sugary treats to keep cool.

Stay With A Routine

Stay with your consistent daily routine and add a twist. Do something fun while brushing to keep your child’s attention long enough for you to brush all their teeth. Brush and floss together and have a brush-a-thon to your child’s favorite tunes. Pack a sticker chart for a fun daily tooth brushing reminder. and look for your child’s favorite flavor toothpaste or toothbrush and flossers with their favorite character for camp.

During your travels bottles and sippy cups may be good for comforting your child, however falling asleep with one in their mouth increases your little one’s risk for cavities.

Raise Your Hands If You Brushed Your Teeth This Morning
Raise Your Hands If You Brushed Your Teeth This Morning
Showing Daddy How Beautiful My Teeth Are After Mommy Brushed Them
Showing Daddy How Beautiful My Teeth Are After Mommy Brushed Them
Looking At The Stars After Flossing And Brushing On Our Staycation
Looking At The Stars After Flossing And Brushing On Our Staycation
Mommy's First Rule Of The Day Is To Brush My Teeth
Mommy’s First Rule Of The Day Is To Brush My Teeth
We Brush Our Teeth With Mommy And Daddy Every Day Before We Go Ou
We Brush Our Teeth With Mommy And Daddy Every Day Before We Go Outside
Fun With Daddy At The Beach After Brushing My Teeth
Fun With Daddy At The Beach After Brushing My Teeth
Mommy And Daddy's Rule Every Night After PJ's They Floss And Brush My Teeth
Mommy And Daddy’s Rule Every Night After PJ’s They Floss And Brush My Teeth

Keep Your Traveling Dental Kit Handy

Put together a dental kit for your travels whether you’re taking a car trip, a plane trip, or sending your child to summer camp.

Pack a kit and a spare (or 2) with floss, toothbrush, toothpaste, and fluoride rinse for everyone. Remember to keep it on you in a carry-on bag so it’s easily accessible for you.

Road Trip, Dental Kit in Red Suitcase
Road Trip, Dental Kit in Red Suitcase
Mommy Packed My Dental Kit For Me To Use At My Camp
Mommy Packed My Dental Kit For Me To Use At My Camp

Have A Choice? Choose Water

Juice boxes and cans of soda may be convenient, but the soda and fruit juices don’t quench thirst for long and even make children thirstier. Then there’s the sugars in those beverages which weaken the outermost tooth layer (aka enamel) causing teeth to look dingy and increase the risk of cavities.

Why water? Water is refreshing, it’s best for keeping your child hydrated and for helping to keep their teeth healthy. Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, and keeps saliva flowing which is essential for helping prevent cavities.

Thirst Quencher Refresher
Thirst Quencher Refresher
Daddy Says Water Is The Best To Drink
Daddy Says Water Is The Best To Drink
Keeping Teeth Healthy And Making Memories
Keeping Teeth Healthy And Making Memories

Healthy Summer Snacks

Special foods are more fun when eaten along with tooth friendly options like fresh fruit, veggies, whole grains, and dairy.

Choose fresh fruits and veggies like apples, carrots, and celery which provide essential vitamins and also help clean teeth. Same for cheese and yogurt (without added jellies, jams or crunchies). These snacks are high in calcium and phosphate, which can help strengthen tooth enamel.

Lunching With My Favorite Summer Foods Poolside
Lunching With My Favorite Summer Foods Poolside
Watermelon Is My Favorite Summer Snack
Watermelon Is My Favorite Summer Snack

Pool’s Rules Rule

Everyone loves to be at the pool. With so much excitement, so many people, and water splashing everywhere there’s always a chance for a slip, a fall, and potential tooth injury. It’s important to follow the pool’s rules about diving, diving boards, jumping into the pool and running poolside.

No one wants to leave the pool because of a tooth accident. Stay safe and follow the rules.

Pool Time After Toothbrushing Time
Pool Time After Toothbrushing Time
Cruising Along With Our Healthy Teeth
Cruising Along With Our Healthy Teeth

Smile Protector

Summer means being outside and having fun swimming, biking, skate boarding, riding the scooter, and playing sports. This fun can sometimes lead to a dental accident.

It’s important to make sure your child wears a mouthguard when playing sports and other physical activities. This preventive step can help protect their teeth from potential injuries.

Protecting Teeth While Having Fun At The Beach
Protecting Teeth While Having Fun At The Beach

What To Remember

While your child is on vacation their teeth are not, this is why it’s so important to stay on track with their dental health.

Time To Go In For Our Night-Time Flossing And Brushing Before Bed
Time To Go In For Our Night-Time Flossing And Brushing Before Bed
Showing Off My Pearly White Teeth
Showing Off My Pearly White Teeth
Showing Off My Dazzling Summer Smile
Showing Off My Dazzling Summer Smile
Hanging Out While My Friend's Having Her Teeth Brushed
Hanging Out While My Friend’s Having Her Teeth Brushed

Have a wonderful summer and enjoy your child’s healthy summer smile!

What is your child looking forward to doing most this summer? What is their most favorite, must have snack, drink and summer food? Do you have any summer family traditions? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us or Chat with us on Facebook

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

Talking Teeth During National Children’s Dental Health Month

~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

Showing Off My Pink Sneakers, Pink Sunglasses and Happy Smile
Showing Off My Pink Sneakers, Pink Sunglasses and Happy Smile
I've Always Brushed My Teeth For 2 Minutes 2X's A Day
I’ve Always Brushed My Teeth For 2 Minutes 2X’s A Day

Today is the 1st day of National Children’s Dental Health Month, #NCDHM!

National Children’s Dental Health Month has a long and distinguished history. The American Dental Association (ADA) observed the very first Children’s Dental Health Day on February 8, 1949. Then in 1955, this 1 day event was extended to 1 week, and in 1981 it was transformed into a 1 month celebration as an acknowledgement for children’s dental health.

Today, National Children’s Dental Health Month is observed every February and is supported by the ADA (ada.org) and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, (aapd.org)

Did You Know?

Did you know that tooth decay is the #1 chronic disease of childhood in the U.S.?

Yes it is. Cavities are more common than childhood obesity, asthma and diabetes.

When left untreated, tooth decay can lead to pain and infections, which can impact a child’s ability to speak, eat, play, and learn.

What To Know For Your Child’s Teeth

Children need healthy teeth. Healthy teeth help children to chew and to speak clearly. Baby teeth also keep space for their adult teeth.

Children need their teeth to be brushed twice day just like their mommy and daddy.

Taking Care Before Teeth Come In Is Important

Before your baby’s teeth come in it’s important to clean their gums. Clean gums, clean teeth, healthy mouth from the start!

This is why it is important to establish an oral care routine by the time your baby turns 1 year old, including regular check-ups. Good oral care habits and routine visits with a pediatric dentist can help prevent tooth decay.

After Her Bottle I Cleaned Her Mouth And Then We Put her To Bed
After Her Bottle I Cleaned Her Mouth And Then We Put her To Bed
Smiling My Gummy Smile
Smiling My Gummy Smile
Healthy Teeth, Healthy Body, Happy Family
Healthy Teeth, Healthy Body, Happy Family
Come To Daddy And Then We're Going To Clean Your Teeth Before Bedtime
Come To Daddy And Then We’re Going To Clean Your Teeth Before Bedtime

Taking Care Of Teeth For Your Children, Tweens and Teens Is Important

Children and adolescents who have poor oral health are more likely to have tooth pain, miss school, and perform poorly in school.

Good oral health care to help prevent cavities in childhood and adolescence is important because oral health affects a person’s overall health and well-being throughout their life.

Dental care, especially early dental visits for children is important because as parents you can be educated on oral hygiene, fluoride, injury prevention, and nutrition.

Playtime With Lots Of Beautiful Smiles
Playtime With Lots Of Beautiful Smiles
My Dentist And My Teacher Gave Me An A In Oral Health
My Dentist And My Teacher Gave Me An A In Oral Health
Nothing Can Stop Us, Healthy Teeth Strong Learning Skills
Nothing Can Stop Us, Healthy Teeth Strong Learning Skills
Showing Off Our Big Healthy Smiles
Showing Off Our Big Healthy Smiles
Smiling My Best Smile
Smiling My Best Smile
Healthy Teeth, Happy Smiles, Healthy Family
Healthy Teeth, Happy Smiles, Healthy Family
Brushing My Teeth Has Helped Me Learn Better
Brushing My Teeth Has Helped Me Learn Better

Talking Tooth Care

Introducing brushing and flossing into your child’s routine can seem complicated and feel exhausting.

A fun way to start introducing your oral care routine may by watching a video cartoon the ADA put together about a school age dinosaur named Dudley, his younger sister along with their friends, and Dudley’s message about taking care of teeth, #ADA160.

What To Remember

Tooth decay is preventable with proper care oral hygiene techniques, allowing parents and caregivers to help give their children healthy teeth, bright smiles and healthy futures!

Even On Vacation We Still Brush Our Teeth 2 Minutes 2X's A Day
Even On Vacation We Still Brush Our Teeth 2 Minutes 2X’s A Day

Do cavities run in your family? Does your child have cavities? Do you feel that no matter what you do, your child will get cavities? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Send us a email to kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us or Chat with us on Facebook at facebook.com/kidstoothhotline

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

Why Does My Child Grind Their Teeth?

~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

My Mom and Dad Say I Grind My Teeth But I Don't Know Why
My Mom and Dad Say I Grind My Teeth But I Don’t Know Why

You walk into your child’s room to check on them after they’re asleep, you hear what sounds like fingernails on a chalkboard and you think “Oh no, they’re grinding their teeth. But do children grind their teeth?”

According to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia about 3 out of 10 children grind their teeth, and that’s before they’re 5 years old. So yes, teeth grinding is fairly common for children.

What Is Tooth Grinding?

Tooth grinding, is also known as bruxism. Bruxism is when your child grinds or clenches their teeth together. This can occur unconsciously during the day or at night while they are sleeping.

What Are The Signs My Child Is Grinding Their Teeth?

There are usually 6 signs to look out for that your child is grinding their teeth —

  • The grinding, nails on a chalk board sound,
  • Their teeth are getting shorter because they are getting worn down and becoming more sensitive,
  • Their teeth look flatter especially the eye teeth (aka canines),
  • Their jaw joints (aka Temporomandibular joint or TMJ), jaws and/or cheeks are sore in the morning,
  • Their neck muscles are tight and painful in the morning,
  • They have a headache in the morning.

While children may let you know about most of these signs in the morning, they can also occur during school, after school, and in the evening.

Why Do Children Grind Their Teeth?

Young children such as toddlers and preschoolers usually grind their teeth as a way counteract teething discomfort or pain. They’re getting new teeth so this is also a way for them to learn how to place their teeth together.

Most school age children between the ages of 6 and 9 stop grinding on their own.

For the school age children, tween and teenagers who still constantly grind there could be a few reasons why —

  • It could be a sign that they are stressed. We don’t usually think that children have stress, but they do. There’s school work, home work, tests, sports, after school, in other words lots of reasons to be stressed,
  • Their teeth aren’t lining up in a way that’s comfortable for them to bite together and they’re searching for the right spot for all their teeth to fit together comfortably,
  • Some medications,
  • They may not be getting good sleep due to things like nightmares, night terrors, snoring, sleep apnea,
  • Ear infections cause a buildup of pressure in the middle ear and a child may grind to compensate and try to equalize what they’re feeling.
  • Everyday I Have A Headache and My Jaw Hurts
  • Why Do My Teeth and Jaw Hurt Everyday?
  • Grinding My Teeth Hurts

Can Bruxism Cause Problems?

Chronic bruxism can cause ongoing problems such as —

  • Worn off tooth enamel
  • Fractured and chipped teeth,
  • Tooth sensitivity,
  • Jaw pain,
  • Jaw joint issues,
  • Headaches.

How is Bruxism Treated?

Toddlers and preschoolers grind their teeth usually when they are teething. To help with the teething pressure you can try a clean cool wet washcloth, you hold the cloth while having them bite on it. The coolness of the washcloth helps soothe their gums.

For older children who haven’t stopped clenching and grinding their teeth, like school age, tweens and teenagers and you’re concerned that it’s damaging their teeth or causing jaw pain, your pediatric dentist can sometimes fabricate a custom night guard. A night guard helps cushion the impact from grinding, which can help prevent damage to the teeth and jaw joint.

If teeth clenching and grinding is part another sleep issue like snoring or sleep apnea, it’s important for you to speak with your pediatrician before your child’s next appointment.

As A Parent, What Can I Do To Help My Child?

Help your child, no matter their age, feel relaxed and comfortable before bed by establishing a calming bed time routine —

  • Set a regular bedtime and wakeup time every day,
  • Encourage beds are only for sleeping, no electronics or doing homework in the bed
  • Set up their room decor in a warm, welcoming, comfy and cozy way,
  • Have them take a warm bath or shower before bed,
  • Older children may want to listen to their favorite book on a podcast,
  • For younger children, reading their favorite stories or books together,
  • You may want to start the evening with their favorite music or some calming music and have some fun,
  • You may want to turn on an app with some calming water sounds, white noise, nature sounds,
  • As an after school activity you may want to consider children’s yoga,
  • Try to find out what’s causing the grinding. This may take some detective work and part of that is talking with your child to see how things are going, if anything has changed, anything new at school or with sports…

If you’ve tried and it’s not working, then it’s best to speak with your pediatrician and pediatric dentist to help you delve deeper and help you get the right treatment.

What To Remember

Often, the first indication that your child is grinding is the noise created by the clenching during sleep; or, you may notice their teeth getting shorter. 

There are many thoughts as to why this occurs. Stress or inner ear infections are only 2 likely causes.

While the majority children may outgrow this or not require any treatment, there are children who need to see their pediatric dentist and pediatrician to address the cause of their bruxism and provide treatment.

If you suspect bruxism or have any concerns, always discuss this with your pediatrician and pediatric dentist.

  • It's Hard To Concentrate In School When My Jaw Hurts
  • I Want To Study But My Jaw Hurts To Much
  • My Jaw And Head Hurt All The Time and I Don't Know How To Explain It

Do you grind your teeth? Have you heard your child gnashing their teeth together? What have you done to help stop the grinding? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email to kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us or Chat with us on Facebook at facebook.com/kidstoothhotline

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

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

Is My Child To Young For Braces?

~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

My Picture Perfect Smile
My Picture Perfect Smile

The 2 questions parents ask most often about their children’s teeth are about braces and cavities.

When asking about braces, we’ll often hear one of two types of questions. Many parents ask if “now” is the time to see the Orthodontist. While many more parents will ask “Isn’t my child too young to start braces?”

The answer is, there is a lot that goes into recommending when to first see the Orthodontist.

What Does The Orthodontist Say?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7.

Does This Mean We’re Ready To Start Braces?

An evaluation does not mean that your child will start braces immediately. Depending on your child’s growth and development, braces may or may not be indicated for several years.

The evaluation gives the Orthodontist a chance to examine your child, and discuss with you their growth pattern, the next steps and when to begin treatment.

What is Early Treatment?

Early treatment is also called Interceptive Orthodontics or Phase 1 treatment.

In this phase, the emphasis is on growth; specifically your child’s growth pattern.

The Orthodontist is interested in the position and symmetry of the jaws, future growth, spacing of the baby teeth, breathing and other oral habits which can, over a period of time affect your child’s dental and facial development.

When Is Early Treatment Recommended?

Early treatment may be recommended for —

  • Habits such as tongue thrusting or thumb sucking
  • A constricted airway due to enlarged adenoids or tonsils
  • Mouth breathing or snoring problems
  • A bad bite
  • Narrow or underdeveloped jaws
  • Space maintenance (if there are any missing teeth)

Treatment in this phase of development does not necessitate or eliminate the need for future orthodontic treatment.

Remember this phase is all about how your child grows.

If There is Phase 1, Is There A Phase 2?

In the second phase, the Orthodontist will be looking at how your child’s teeth and jaws fit and come together.

Teeth will be straightened and their bite (aka occlusion) is properly aligned. Attention is given to their jaw joint (TMJ), their facial profile and gum tissues.

Showing Off My Beautiful Smile
Showing Off My Beautiful Smile
On Our Way To The Orthodontist's Office
On Our Way To The Orthodontist’s Office
My Braces Make Me Want To Smile
My Braces Make Me Want To Smile
Being Careful With My Braces During Swimming
Being Careful With My Braces During Swimming

What To Remember

You want your child to have their best smile. While some children may need braces sooner than others, there is no exact age on when to start; and each child needs their own distinct treatment protocol.

An evaluation by an Orthodontist is valuable because it helps identify and address dentofacial issues early, putting your child on the path to their healthy beautiful smile.

Did you have braces? Does your child have braces? or, Are you about to start braces? What questions do you have? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email to kidstoothhotline@protonmail.me Like Us or Chat with us on
Facebook at facebook.com/kidstoothhotline

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

Summer Tooth Tips For Your Family

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In the Know for You to Know

Hello Summertime

Summer is here and your family wants to have fun, fun, and more fun. Lazy days and yummy foods have been on your children’s minds since the count down to vacation began.

This is also a stressful time for you because you know what they want and you want to keep up their balanced diet and keep going with those good habits you’ve worked hard on.

So how do you indulge those eagerly awaited extra special delights and stay on track?

4 Bite Sized Tips For Healthy Summer Teeth

Keep up with your child’s routine

Whether you’re traveling, day tripping, planing a staycation or a trip to Grandma’s, put together a traveling dental kit. This way if schedule changes disrupt your good habits you can start up where you left off. Also remember that while bottles and sippy cups are good for comforting your child, don’t let them fall asleep with one in their mouth as it increases their risk for cavities.

Stick to your child’s healthy diet

Make those special foods and beverages more delicious when eaten with a healthy and balanced meal full of fresh fruit, veggies, whole grains, lean protein, water, and plain milk.

Indulge with care

Gooey, sticky and chewy are fun to eat, not so much to brush off teeth. Choose treats that are super smooth and slide off the teeth like chocolate bars without crunchies, italian water ices, and ice cream.

Make it fun

Vacation time is happy and new every year. This year tweak your consistent daily routines in a fun way. Try doing something to keep your child’s attention long enough for you to brush all their teeth, like – brushing and flossing together or have a brush-a-thon to your child’s favorite tunes. Children love stickers, so use a sticker chart and remember to be on the look out for their fun flavor toothpaste or a toothbrush with their favorite character.

What's Your Sweet Tooth?
Yummy Gelato, Which Is Your Favorite?
Summer Fun At The Amusement Park
Happily Eating Watermelon
Cherries Are The Best Summer Fruit
Summer's Here And We're Gonna Have Fun
Summer Fun Eating Ice cream with Mommy
Fun At The Beach
Summer Means Popsicles
Ice cream And Summer Go Together
Grapes Are Our Favorite, Easy To Pack And Easy To Eat
My Favorite Summer Drink Is Water
Fresh Veggies Are The Colors Of Summer
Daddy has my tooth brush in his knapsack
Loving Our Strawberry Water
Your Choice, Fruit or Veggie Smoothies
Strawberries Are The Candy Of Summer
The Foods Of Summer
Yummy Summer Fruits

Summer time is always a busy time for families. Being out of school with a steady stream of activities puts every day life on hold, including good tooth routines and habits.

If your good habits go haywire, pick up where you left off and help your child get back on track with their good brushing, flossing and healthy eating habits.

Enjoy your summer and make those amazing memories while at the same time protecting those beautiful smiles!

How do you keep up with your children’s brushing and flossing over the summer? What are your families favorite summer foods? We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@proton.me or Chat with us and Like Us on Facebook at facebook.com/kidstoothhotline

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

Does Tongue Tie Go Away?

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In the Know for You to Know

Mommy and Daddy Love That Now I Can Stick Out My Tongue
Mommy and Daddy Love That Now I Can Stick Out My Tongue

Tongue tie is a short muscle attachment under the tongue which may restrict tongue mobility and can cause potential difficulties for breastfeeding and speech.

In our last post we talked about recognizing tongue tie, and how the tie affects breast feeding and speech. Today we’re discussing Treatments for Tongue tie.

Some doctors may take a wait and see approach to evaluate if tongue tie goes away as in some milder cases. There are an increasing number of others who recommend prompt treatment to prevent ongoing feeding difficulties for an infant, or for an older child who has speech difficulties, dental problems, and social concerns. Most cases of tongue tie are treated as soon as they are diagnosed, and depending on the child’s age, it can be done either in the office or in the operating room.

Does Tongue Tie Go Away On Its Own?

Treating Tongue Tie

Tongue tie does not really go away on its own. Sometimes the tight tie may loosen slightly as the child’s mouth grows. For some as they get older they seek to accommodate to their limited tongue movement for chewing and speech. Nonetheless there are children who continue to experience difficulties with eating and speech.

Look How Far I Can Stick Out My Tongue
Sticking Out My Tongue Because Now I Can
This Is How Far I Can Stick Out My Tongue

Once a child has been examined and it’s decided that the best way to address the tie is to surgically alter the attachment, you may be referred to either an ENT (Ear Nose and Throat) Physician, an Oral Surgeon, or a Pediatric Dentist.

Tongue tie can be corrected in one of two surgical ways:

Frenotomy

The doctor examines the frenum and then snips it free with sterile scissors. The procedure is quick and usually there is little blood. Most times local anesthetic isn’t used because discomfort is minimal due to there being few nerve endings and blood vessels in the frenum. After the procedure, you stay for a while in the office while the baby breastfeeds. In this circumstance, the breast milk is for pain relief and as an antiseptic.

Frenuloplasty

On examination if the frenum is too thick for a frenotomy, a frenuloplasty, may be recommended. This procedure uses general anesthesia and surgical tools to free the tongue from the thick band of tissue in the bottom of the mouth. When the frenum is free the wound is closed with stitches that dissolve on their own within a couple of weeks. The child will most likely not need to stay in the hospital overnight, and will likely go home the same day as the operation. As with all surgeries there are possible complications and can include bleeding, infection, scarring, or damage to the tongue or salivary gland.

Follow-Up Care

After the procedure a follow-up appointment is usually scheduled between 5 and 7 days to check on healing in the treated area.

Your pediatrician may refer you to a speech therapist depending on how your child’s speech was affected by the tongue tie to overcome any articulation and enunciation problems.

The doctor who performed the procedure or your pediatrician may give your child simple exercises to help improve the full motion of their tongue.

Do you know a Mom who is having trouble with painful breastfeeding? Have you seen a child who is unable to stick their tongue out all the way or move it from side to side? Do you know someone whose child doesn’t want ice cream because they can’t lick the cone? Do you know a child who doesn’t want to be in the school band because they can’t play the wind instrument they want? Newborns, babies and children, tweens and adolescents can have tongue tie. Let us know if you know a family whose child has (or had) tongue tie and what they are doing (or did) to address the tie.. Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@protonmail.me Like Us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kidstoothhotline

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

Why Can’t I Brush The Yellow Off My Child’s Teeth

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In the Know for You to Know

You love seeing your child’s beautiful pearly white teeth. The pure whiteness has you thinking to yourself those are the cutest teeth ever.

Then one day you notice not all their teeth are sparkling white, and in fact some look yellow. You’re thinking wait, when did that happen?

Well you’re in good company. The most common time as a parent you’ll ask about yellow teeth is when your child’s first adult teeth begin to appear.

Will All My Teeth Be Sparkly And Bright?
Will All My Teeth Be Sparkly And Bright?

Baby Teeth Are White, Adult Teeth Are Not

Baby teeth are actually whiter than adult teeth. As your child gets older and their adult teeth start to come in you may see a noticeable difference in the color between the teeth. While baby teeth are more white, adult teeth tend to appear more yellower in color.

The color differences are due to the differences in the thicknesses and actual color hues of the tooth layers. Baby teeth have thinner and whiter layers so they appear more translucent. Adult teeth have thicker and different deeply colored layers so they appear more opaque.

When you’re looking at new adult teeth coming in next to baby teeth the difference is more eye-catching. As more of your child’s adult teeth come in the difference becomes less obvious.

Are There Other Reasons For Yellow Teeth?

There are lots of causes, however the 2 most common for baby teeth and adult teeth are cavities and tooth injuries.

Cavities start out as super white spots on teeth that over time cause the outer enamel shell to disintegrate leaving the inner layer of the tooth (aka dentin) exposed. This exposed part of the tooth is yellow, and that can’t be brushed back to white.

Mommy and Daddy Look At My Yellow Tooth

If your child injures their tooth the baby tooth can turn yellow or in rare cases the adult tooth can come in with a yellow spot.

As A Parent What Can You Do?

Talk with your child. School age children and teens have insecurities about their appearance, and their teeth are part of that. If you’ve noticed the yellow chances are they have also. Let them know that while lots of families deal with yellow teeth it’s something that you can take care of together.

Big Girl Teeth-Yeah! Not As White-Why?
Big Girl Teeth-Yeah! Not As White-Why?

Whether you’re dealing with yellow baby teeth or adult teeth be sure to keep up with your child’s daily brushing and flossing routine.

Have you wondered if it was normal for your child to have yellow teeth? What did you do about it? Share your tips with us, we’d really like to know. Email us at kidstoothhotline@protonmail.me Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/kidstoothhotline

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

Overcoming Tooth Brushing Struggles For Children With Autism

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In the Know for You to Know

Our Family Motto
Our Family Motto

For parents it’s all about finding creative ways to introduce and teach your child about tooth brushing and routine oral hygiene. Every child responds in their own way, and for children with Autism their reactions may be unforeseen because of communication challenges, or certain behavioral characteristics to new changes in routine and sensory sensitivities.

This is especially stressful for you when you’re trying to establish healthy dental hygiene habits and your child is overwhelmed by sounds, smells, tastes, textures, or flavors.

So what to do and where to start to overcome your tooth brushing struggles?

In our last post My Child Has Autism, How Can I Brush Their Teeth? we suggested 2 ideas. Creating a step by step picture guide book (aka story board) or an activity schedule. We included a step by step plan for you on how to assemble your own story board and activity sheet. Which one (or both) you choose, they are absolutely helpful and go a long way to establishing your daily routine.

Now that you have your story board or activity sheet ready to go it’s time for the next step–

Second, Let’s Practice

There are a lot of movements we make with our mouths when we brush, so it’s always good to practice.

1st, it’s great to start with opening wide, and staying open wide. Maybe you make it a game and count to see how long you can both stay open wide. Remember to use the phone timer to count those seconds.

2nd, let’s count teeth. How many teeth are in there? Yes you need to count all the way to the back so be sure to (you guessed it) stay open wide.

3rd, let’s brush. Put a dab of toothpaste on the brush, remember to open wide, and let’s brush those teeth slowly and gently. Maybe you can count teeth, sing a song, or use the phone timer to count. Remember your goal is 2Minutes 2X’s A Day.

For children who have taste or texture sensitivity, there are fluoride tooth pastes that come in different flavors (bubblegum, berry), or unflavored or non-foaming (sodium lauryl sulfate free). There are also choices for toothbrushes, such as a spinning or battery-powered toothbrush for children who like vibration.

4th, time to spit out the toothpaste. Spitting not happening? No problem, drooling out the toothpaste in the sink (or washcloth) and wiping with a wet washcloth is a good alternative, or skip the drooling and use the wet wash cloth.

Sometimes children need more assistance and more practice with brushing their teeth.

If brushing is challenging it may be the sensation is uncomfortable. If that’s the case then try showing the brushing on your finger first, then on their finger, then on the back of their hand, then on their lips, then just inside their mouth or pick the 2 front teeth (top or bottom their choice) and start with brushing those teeth.

Third, Help Your Child Learn The Steps For Toothbrushing

Your child’s age determines how much tooth paste goes on their brush. If they’re 3 years old and younger place a rice grain size of tooth paste on their brush. If they’re older than 3 years old place a peas size amount on their brush.

  • Brush the top front teeth (inside, outside, and chewing surfaces),
  • Brush the bottom front teeth (inside and outside),
  • Brush the bottom back teeth (outside, inside, and top surface),
  • Brush the top back teeth (inside, outside, and chewing surface),
  • Finally, brush all around and spit out the tooth paste.

Fourth, Develop A Reward System

Children adore receiving praise from their parents and parents are eager to show their pride in their child, so let your child know how proud of them you are.

You can also start a rewards system (such as a rewards jar or sticker book) to reinforce your pride and their positive behavior after toothbrushing is complete.

Medical and Dental Go Together

As parents you may be dealing with multiple pressing significant health issues for your child and you need to prioritize their needs. They may be taking medicines that are sugar flavored so that you can get them to take it. Going to bed with a bottle of a nutrition drink may be part of your nightly routine because your child needs to gain weight.

Please do not let their dental health take a back seat. It can be as easy as wiping their mouths, tongue and cheeks with a wet washcloth while you are holding them. Or alternating their bottle with water so they don’t fall asleep with the sugary liquid on their teeth even though you’re still wiping their teeth with a wash cloth. You can always slip in some water for them to drink during the day or begin by diluting their juice with 50% water then 75% water then 100% water.

Remember What’s Most Important

Lots of praise, hugs and smiles for both of you!

First We Play Peek-A-Boo Second We Brush My Teeth
Hide And Seek Then We Brush Our Teeth
Practicing Smiling In Our Happy Place
Waiting for Mommy and Daddy to Clean My Mouth
I Am A Teenager And I Will Let You Help Me Brush My Teeth

Tell us about your Story Board or Activity Sheet. How is brushing time for your family? What works for your family? Share your tip with us, we’d love to know. Email us at kidstoothhotline@protonmail.me Like Us on Facebook at facebook.com/kidstoothhotline.

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