Tag: School Age Tooth Care

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

~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

Wax On The Poking Wire Really Helps
Wax On The Poking Wire Really Helps

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 Broken Wire Is Really Bothering My Cheek
Having My Broken Brace's Wire Replaced
Having My Broken Brace’s Wire Replaced
Broken Wire Off, New Wire Going On
Broken Wire Off, New Wire Going On

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 ~

  1. 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.
  2. 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,.
  3. 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
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?

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

~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

Mommy My Tooth Hurts
Mommy My Tooth Hurts

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

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
Mommy And Daddy Are Taking You To The Dentist To Make Your Tooth Stop Hurting

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!

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!

Creating a Fun and Positive Dental Experience with Child Friendly Language

~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You To Know

Open Big And Say Cheese Just Like Counting My Teeth At My Pediatric Dentist's Office
Open Big And Say Cheese Just Like Counting My Teeth At My Pediatric Dentist’s Office

As parents you want to soothe any dental anxiety and remove fears of the dentist for your children, and one of the best tools at your disposal is knowledge.

Keeping descriptions simple, easy going, and relatable is always important no matter what your child’s age. Using child friendly words when explaining the people they will meet, the sites, sounds and instruments (aka tools) go a long way to easing your child into their dental visits. 

Today we’re breaking down the basics on how to keep things simple, honest and understandable when preparing your child for their visit with the pediatric dentist.

Child Friendly Language Is The Key To Creating A Fun And Positive Dental Experience

Each visit is an opportunity for you and your pediatric dentist to create a positive dental experience for your child. Fun and self-explanatory word exchanges allow for understanding and encourage confidence toward dental appointments. 

Child Friendly Dental Words

Adult Dental WordsChild Friendly Dental Words
Dental ChairRecliner
Dental Chair LightFlashlight
Saliva EjectorMr. Thirsty or Straw
Dental MirrorLooking Glass
ExplorerTooth Counter
College PliersPicker Uppers
Air Water SyringeWater Squirter or Super Soaker or Wind & Water
Examine TeethCounting Teeth
CleaningTickle Teeth
Prophy BrushTooth Tickler or Electric Toothbrush
Prophy PasteYummy Flavored Toothpaste
FlossTooth String
FluorideTooth Muscles or Tooth Vitamins
X-ray MachineCamera
Intra-oral SensorTooth Selfie or Photo
Lead ApronEmoji Cape or Superhero Cape or Blanket
CavitySugar Bugs
High Speed Handpiece (aka fast drill)Mr. Whistle or Airplane
Slow Speed Handpiece (aka slow drill)Mr. Bumpitty Bump or Motorcycle
BurShower Head
InjectionSleepy Juice For Teeth
Topical AnestheticJelly or Spicy Jelly
Remove A ToothTooth Dance or Tooth Wiggle
InfectionBubble
Rubber DamRaincoat
Rubber Dam ClampTooth Ring
Isodry or IsoliteMr. Fish or Tooth Pillow
Nitrous-Oxide OxygenMagic Air
Nitrous Oxide-Oxygen NoseIce Cream Nose
Curing LightTooth Dryer or Magic Light
CrownChapeau or Fancy Hat or Baseball/Football Helmet
Space MaintainerTooth Jewelery
SealantTooth Polish
Child Friendly Dental Words
A Big Thumbs Up To My Pediatric Dentist For Being Creative In Helping Me Understand Everything Today
A Big Thumbs Up To My Pediatric Dentist For Being Creative In Helping Me Understand Everything Today
Today Is My Dentist's Appointment And I Can't Wait To Go
Today Is My Dentist’s Appointment And I Can’t Wait To Go
Telling Daddy About The Fun Words I Learned At My Pediatric Dentist Visit Today
Telling Daddy About The Fun Words I Learned At My Pediatric Dentist Visit Today
Daddy's High Five With Me For Having Such A Great Visit With My Pediatric Dentist, Thank You Dentist
Daddy’s High Five With Me For Having Such A Great Visit With My Pediatric Dentist, Thank You Dentist
Mommy Is Showing Me How Much Fun I'm Going To Have At My Pediatric Dentist Appointment Today
Mommy Is Showing Me How Much Fun I’m Going To Have At My Pediatric Dentist Appointment Today
My Mommy Is Tickling My Tummy And My Pediatric Dentist Will Tickle My Teeth
My Mommy Is Tickling My Tummy And My Pediatric Dentist Will Tickle My Teeth
Thumbs Up To My Pediatric Dentist For Helping Me Today, And For Being Such A Good Helper I Get Extra Game Time
Thumbs Up To My Pediatric Dentist For Helping Me Today, And For Being Such A Good Helper I Get Extra Game Time
My Pediatric Dentist. Makes Me So Comfortable When They Use The Mirror And Tooth Counter To Check My Teeth, No Matter How Old I Get
My Pediatric Dentist. Makes Me So Comfortable When They Use The Mirror And Tooth Counter To Check My Teeth, No Matter How Old I Get
I'm Drawing A Thank You Tooth For My Pediatric Dentis
I’m Drawing A Thank You Tooth For My Pediatric Dentis
Mommy Is So Happy Since I Listened So Well To What My Pediatric Dentist Explained To Me At My Visit Today
Mommy Is So Happy Since I Listened So Well To What My Pediatric Dentist Explained To Me At My Visit Today
Thumbs Up To My Pediatric Dentist For Counting My Teeth and Using The Tooth Tickler
Thumbs Up To My Pediatric Dentist For Counting My Teeth and Using The Tooth Tickler
My Pediatric Dentist Did A Great Job Explaining Everything To Me, So I Was A Really Good Helper And Daddy's Proud Of Me-High 5 Daddy
My Pediatric Dentist Did A Great Job Explaining Everything To Me, So I Was A Really Good Helper And Daddy’s Proud Of Me-High 5 Daddy
Thumbs Up For The Best Dentist Appointment Ever
Thumbs Up For The Best Dentist Appointment Ever
Blowing Bubbles With My Prize From My Pediatric Dentist
Blowing Bubbles With My Prize From My Pediatric Dentist
Thumbs Up To Me For Being Such A Good Listener At My Pediatric Dentist's Appointment Yesterday
Thumbs Up To Me For Being Such A Good Listener At My Pediatric Dentist’s Appointment Yesterday
We're Dancing Our Way To Our Pediatric Dentist
We’re Dancing Our Way To Our Pediatric Dentist

What To Remember

It’s not what we say but how we say things that make all the difference. Effective language is key to having a positive experience. As children grow and mature pediatric dentists tailor their explanations to be age appropriate. 

No matter what their age, children remember the fun words at the dentist as they grow which helps them have a positive experience and attitude for their dental visits.

Before you know it they’ll be saying to you “I remember when you explained to me about Mr. Whistle and the sugar bugs, by doing that you made it so easy for me at the dentist.” Now that’s empowerment.

I'm Giving My Pediatric Dentist A Thumbs Up For Explaining Everything So I Wasn't Nervous Today
I’m Giving My Pediatric Dentist A Thumbs Up For Explaining Everything So I Wasn’t Nervous Today
My Children Just Had The Best Pediatric Dental Appointment
My Children Just Had The Best Pediatric Dental Appointment

How do you prepare your child for their dental visit? Have you come up with any fun words to explain to your child their upcoming appointment? Which are your favorite children’s dental terms? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email to kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us or chat with us on Facebook

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

Zirconia Crowns: Aesthetic and Durable Choice for Children

~ kidstoothhotline

In the Know for You to Know

My Zirconia Crowns Are As Pretty As My New Teddy Bear
My Zirconia Crowns Are As Pretty As My New Teddy Bear

You’re at your child’s dental check-up and you find out that the tooth you thought has a cavity does have one and that a filling just won’t do.

In my last post about crowns, we discussed stainless steel crowns. Stainless steel crowns are the classic reliable standard for taking care of baby (aka primary) teeth when placing a regular filling puts a tooth at risk for breaking. But let’s face it, they are not very esthetic.

When esthetics is a concern, there is another option and that is the zirconia crown.

Today we’re breaking down the basics on an esthetic children’s tooth crown alternative, the zirconia crown.

What Is Zirconia?

Zirconia is a high quality ceramic material which closely resembles natural teeth, providing durability and a natural appearance.

What Is A Zirconia Crown?

White zirconia dental crowns are an esthetic alternative to stainless steel crowns for children. 

In addition to being metal free, strong and biocompatible, they are esthetically pleasing since they can blend in with your child’s natural teeth; whether back teeth or front teeth.

These crowns are for restoring primary teeth that are chipped, damaged, broken, not developing properly, have had a pulpotomy, or have areas of tooth decay (aka cavity) which are too large for a filling because of the risk of breaking the tooth.

Smiling Pretty With My Mommy After Getting My New Zirconia Crown
Smiling Pretty With My Mommy After Getting My New Zirconia Crown
Mommy And Me Reading Up On Zirconia Crowns
Mommy And Me Reading Up On Zirconia Crowns
Showing Grandma My New Zirconia Crowns
Showing Grandma My New Zirconia Crowns
Mommy's So Proud, My Brother Did Awesome For His Zirconia Crowns Today
Mommy’s So Proud, My Brother Did Awesome For His Zirconia Crowns Today
Can You Guess Which Of My Teeth Have Zirconia Crowns?
Can You Guess Which Of My Teeth Have Zirconia Crowns?
I'm Showing My Zirconia Crowns To My Friend
I’m Showing My Zirconia Crowns To My Friend
Can You See My Zirconia Crown?
Can You See My Zirconia Crown?
Mommy and Me Looking In The Mirror Checking Out My New Zirconia Crown
Mommy and Me Looking In The Mirror Checking Out My New Zirconia Crown
I'm Cuddling With My Mom After Getting My Zirconia Crown Today
I’m Cuddling With My Mom After Getting My Zirconia Crown Today

How Long Does A Zirconia Crown Last?

Zirconia is very strong and well suited for children who need their crowns to last for several years until they naturally lose their baby teeth.

How Do We Take Care Of A Zirconia Crown?

Your child’s daily brushing and flossing routine has the same importance now as it always has, and with increased emphasis now that your child has a crown.

It’s best to avoid biting anything hard, sticky, chewy and gooey since they can dislodge the crown or pull it off completely.

Are The Reasons For A Zirconia Crown Different From A Stainless Steel Crown?

The reason for a children’s tooth crown, whether it is a zirconia crown or a stainless steel crown are the same.

I'm Showing Off My Zirconia Tooth Crown
I’m Showing Off My Zirconia Tooth Crown
Can You Guess Which Are My 2 Zirconium Crowns?
Can You Guess Which Are My 2 Zirconium Crowns?
Mommy Said I Did Great For My Zirconia Crowns
Mommy Said I Did Great For My Zirconia Crowns

5 Indications For A Children’s Zirconia Crown

  • Tooth decay has caused so much loss of tooth structure that a filling will break, break the tooth even more, or both,
  • After a pulpotomy,
  • A fractured tooth,
  • A tooth that grew in with weak structure (not due to a cavity),
  • Esthetics are a concern.

When Isn’t A Zirconia Crown Recommended?

There are 4 specific times when a Zirconia crown isn’t advised~

  • When a child grinds their teeth,
  • When there is space loss between the tooth needing the crown and the adjacent teeth,
  • When there is too little tooth structure remaining to retain the crown on the tooth,
  • When there is substantial crowding between the teeth.

What To Remember

Baby teeth may be small but their need is great.

This is because children’s primary teeth are essential for chewing, speaking, and maintaining space for the development and correct positioning of their adult teeth.

Zirconia crowns are a good treatment choice for these important teeth for 4 reasons ~

  • They have good retention,
  • They are fracture resistant,
  • They are oral hygiene friendly,
  • They have parent’s satisfaction and increase children’s self-confidence.
I Really Like How My Zirconia Crown Looks
I Really Like How My Zirconia Crown Looks

Have you been told your child needs a crown? Are you concerned about the crown’s esthetics? What do you think about zirconia crowns? Do you feel comfortable discussing zirconia crowns with your child’s dentist? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email to kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us or chat with us on Facebook

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

The Importance of Stainless Steel Crowns for Child Tooth Care

~ kidstoothhotline ~ 1 Comment

In the Know for You to Know

Why Am I Going To The Dentsit For A Crown? I'm Already Wearing One
Why Am I Going To The Dentsit For A Crown? I’m Already Wearing One

You take your child for their regular dental check-up appointment and you’re feeling good this time but you still have this feeling they may have a cavity or two.

The hygienist asks you to come over and the pediatric dentist begins to discuss the best way to take care of the tooth with the big cavity. Yes, that tooth. The tooth all the way in the back that has been a challenge to floss and brush.

As the dentist is talking with you, you’re thinking “maybe a filling, a smallish filling, after all it’s a baby tooth and not very big.”

Then you hear the words “cap” and “crown.” You’re surprised and thinking “oh no, what?, how?, you’ve got to be kidding.”

This isn’t a ploy. There are times when a child’s tooth may have a cavity, a developmental defect, or a fracture and the best way to restore the tooth is with a dental crown.

Today we’re breaking down the basics on a commonly used dental crown for children, the stainless steel crown.

What Is A Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth shaped cap that restores a decayed or broken tooth.

The crown fits over the entire tooth (like a hat covers your child’s head) and is contoured to ensure a proper fit. 

Why Does A Baby Tooth Need A Crown?

Baby Teeth (aka primary teeth) are important to take care of because they help with proper speech development, chewing, and maintaining space for adult teeth to come in correctly.

When a baby tooth has a cavity, or defect, or is fractured the structure of the tooth is weakened and can easily break; which causes another set of issues.

Covering the tooth with a crown gives support and structure while preserving the tooth’s form and function.

What Are The Reasons For A Dental Crown?

Tooth decay (aka cavities) is very prevalent among children, and the extent of the cavity is the most common reason for a crown.

There are several additional indications for why a child needs a dental crown —

  • After a pulpotomy,
  • The decay has caused so much loss of tooth structure that a filling will break, break the tooth even more, or both,
  • The tooth has developmental defects that compromise the structure of the tooth,
  • A fractured tooth
I Had To Have 2 Silver Caps
I Had To Have 2 Silver Caps
Mommy And Daddy Say This Is Why I Need Silver Caps On My Molars
Mommy And Daddy Say This Is Why I Need Silver Caps On My Molars
My Mom Said At least I Only Needed 1 Silver Crown, My Brother Needed 4
My Mom Said At least I Only Needed 1 Silver Crown, My Brother Needed 4

What Is A Stainless Steel Crown?

Stainless steel crowns are a metal crown which are pre-formed, resemble the anatomy of the tooth and can be contoured to the tooth. The crown is then affixed onto the tooth with a special dental cement.

A stainless steel crown is the most traditional type of crown for baby molars. The reason is that they are designed to last for several years until the baby tooth falls out. They are very durable, and adapt very well to the tooth.

What Is A Stainless Steel Crown Made Of?

Stainless steel crowns are manufactured using a stainless steel alloy which contains nickel and chromium.

If your child has any sensitivity or allergy to any of these materials it’s important for you to speak with your pediatrician and pediatric dentist before your child’s crown appointment.

How Long Does A Stainless Steel Crown Last?

A stainless steel crown is placed to help restore form and function to a baby tooth (most typically a baby molar), and lasts as long as the baby tooth.

The tooth and the crown usually come out together, which can be around the time your child is 10 to 14 years old.

Grandma Do You Remember When I Had All Those Silver Crowns In My Mouth? I Learned My Lesson
Grandma Do You Remember When I Had All Those Silver Crowns In My Mouth? I Learned My Lesson

How Do We Take Care Of A Stainless Steel Crown?

Floss and brush around the tooth with the crown just like all your child’s other teeth.

It’s best to avoid sticky, chewy and gooey candies since they can dislodge the crown or pull it off completely.

Daddy's Helping Me Brush My Teeth So I Won't Have To Get Any More Silver Crowns
Daddy’s Helping Me Brush My Teeth So I Won’t Have To Get Any More Silver Crowns

Is There An Alternative To A Stainless Steel Crown?

While stainless steel crowns are the gold standard for children’s molar teeth, there are other options available, such as stainless steel crowns with a pre-veneered tooth colored white facing and zirconium crowns.

Stainless Steel Crown With Pre-Veneered White Facing

Stainless steel crowns can be made to look more esthetically pleasing with a pre-veneered tooth colored plastic face.

These crowns appear more cosmetic because from the front they look “tooth colored” but the area around the facing, the biting surface, the sides and back of the crown are all the traditional silver color.

For the tooth colored facing to adhere to the metal crown extra bulk is added, so these crowns look thick and round.

The facing also has an increased tendency to easily break off exposing the silver underneath.

Zirconium Crowns

Stay tuned for my upcoming post on these new for children highly esthetic crowns.

What To Remember

The care of baby teeth is essential due to their role in chewing, speaking, and maintaining space for the development and correct positioning of adult teeth.

While baby teeth may be smaller in size than adult teeth, tooth decay, structural defects and fractures loom larger for them.

Stainless Steel Crown’s are the treatment of choice for primary teeth for 3 important reasons —

  • Durability,
  • Longevity,
  • Reliability.
Mommy Had Silver Caps in Her Mouth When She Was Little, I'm Making Sure My Precious Angel Never Does
Mommy Had Silver Caps in Her Mouth When She Was Little, I’m Making Sure My Precious Angel Never Does
I Got A Tooth Crown And Princess Crown Today
I Got A Tooth Crown And Princess Crown Today

Does your child have a stainless steel crown? What were your thoughts when you heard your child needed a stainless steel crown? Did you have a stainless steel crown as a child? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email to kidstoothotline@proton.me Like Us or chat with us on Facebook

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

Why Does My Child’s Baby Tooth Need A Pulpotomy?

~ kidstoothhotline ~ 2 Comments

In the Know for You to Know

My Dentist Told My Mom That I Need A Pulpotomy
My Dentist Told My Mommy And Daddy That I Need A Pulpotomy

Your child may have woken up with a toothache or hurt their tooth playing sports. Maybe your neighbor or sister-in-law called you because your child is at a sleepover and has tooth pain. Before you know it you’re being told the nerve in their tooth is inflamed and they need a pulpotomy.

Then you’re thinking, what does all this mean, what is a pulpotomy, and why does my child need a pulpotomy?

I’ve had a lot of questions recently about pulpotomies. Today I’m answering your questions and breaking down the basics on a frequently performed procedure but one you’re not familiar with, a pulpotomy.

Do Baby Teeth Have Nerves?

Yes, Baby teeth have nerves. The nerve is the inner most part of the tooth.

The Nerve Of The Tooth Is Also Known As The Dental Pulp

The nerve, or dental pulp of a tooth is the inner most part of the tooth. The pulp is a jelly-like structure in the center of every tooth, which contains nerves, blood vessels, connective tissue and specialized cells. The purpose of the pulp is to keep the tooth alive.

Why Does A Baby Tooth Need A Pulpotomy?

Cavities and a traumatic injury to a child’s tooth are the main reasons the tooth’s pulp is wounded.

A pulpotomy is performed in order to remove the damaged portion of the nerve and keep the remaining part of the pulp intact and alive.

This way the tooth feels normal and your child can keep their baby tooth until it falls out naturally and is replaced by an adult tooth.

What Is A Pulpotomy?

A pulpotomy is a procedure in which a dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth’s pulp to help prevent the formation of an infection, so your child can keep their baby tooth until it falls out naturally.

This procedure is only performed on baby teeth, and when there are no signs or symptoms of infection, such as pain, sensitivity, or swelling.

Is A Pulpotomy Like A Root Canal?

A baby tooth pulpotomy is sometimes referred to as a “baby root canal” or a “baby nerve treatment,” but this is not the same as an adult tooth root canal.

In a traditional root canal, all of the dental pulp is removed. In contrast a pulpotomy only removes the diseased pulp and is intended to preserve the remaining healthy pulp. This helps to keep the tooth healthy and strong.

It’s Only A Baby Tooth, Why Save It?

Children with strong healthy baby teeth grow up to have strong healthy adult teeth.

It’s important to take care of baby teeth because infections in baby teeth cause pain and can damage developing adult teeth.

Healthy baby teeth are also important because they help with proper speech development, chewing, good nutrition, and maintaining space for the adult teeth to come in correctly.

What Should We Be Doing At Home To Prevent Needing A Pulpotomy In The Future?

ToothBrushing And Flossing Routine

Tooth brushing and flossing are simple but crucial to keep your child’s mouth healthy. Make sure to brush 2X’s a day and floss once a day with your child to establish a healthy brushing routine.

Mouthguards Matter

As a parent you are always saying “Wear your helmet!” when our children want to go out to ride their bike, skateboard or scooter. Mouthguards offer the same protection.

While a helmet protects a child’s head, a mouthguard helps cushion a blow to the mouth and face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to your child’s lips, tongue, face or jaws.

When it comes to protecting your child’s mouth, a mouthguard is an essential piece of athletic gear that should be part of their standard equipment from an early age.

What To Remember

A pulpotomy is often recommended as a way for your child to be able to keep their baby tooth and is performed on a tooth for a few reasons —

  • when the bacteria from a cavity penetrate into the nerve of a tooth,
  • a tooth is broken and the crack is extends into the nerve of the tooth.

This procedure is done because they are too young to lose their baby tooth, and their adult tooth is not developed enough to grow in.

Has your child had a toothache and needed a pulpotomy? Has your child suffered a hit to their mouth which cracked their tooth and they needed a pulpotomy? Have you ever had a root canal? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email to kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us of Chat with us on Facebook

I'm Having Fun Playing With My Dad and Brother After Brushing and Flossing So I Don't Need Another Pulpotomy
I’m Having Fun Playing With My Dad and Brother After Brushing and Flossing So I Don’t Need Another Pulpotomy
My Mom Says My Baby Molar Needs A Pulpotomy
My Mom Says My Baby Molar Needs A Pulpotomy
My Mom And Dad Always Say This Is Why Having My Teeth Checked Is So Important
My Mom And Dad Always Say This Is Why Having My Teeth Checked Is So Important
Mommy And Daddy Said I Did A Great Job During My Pulpotomy
Mommy And Daddy Said I Did A Great Job During My Pulpotomy
Daddy Says We'll Get To Play More After We Brush and Floss So I Won't Need A Pulpotomy Like My Brother
Daddy Says We’ll Get To Play More After We Brush and Floss So I Won’t Need A Pulpotomy Like My Brother
Smiling My Beautiful Smile After My Pulpotomy
Smiling My Beautiful Smile After My Pulpotomy
Peek-A-Boo, We're On Our Way Home After My Pulpotomy
Peek-A-Boo, We’re On Our Way Home After My Pulpotomy
Mommy And Daddy Are Helping Me Brush and Floss My Teeth So I Won't Need Another Pulpotomy
Mommy And Daddy Are Helping Me Brush and Floss My Teeth So I Won’t Need Another Pulpotomy
Checking Out My Mouth After My Pulpotomy
Checking Out My Mouth After My Pulpotomy

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

The Top 5 Children’s Teeth Truths

~ kidstoothhotline ~ 1 Comment

In the Know for You to Know

These days there’s a lot of information out there for parents. Most of the time what appears true simply isn’t true. Yet there are myths that continue to be spread.

We want you to be knowledgeable and informed, so today we’re breaking down the most common children’s dentistry myths.

Myth #1 Baby Teeth Aren’t Important, They Fall Out

Truth: Baby teeth are the foundation for a life time of good oral health. When your child’s tooth foundation is strong and healthy, they grow up with strong and healthy adult teeth.

The 2nd truth about why it’s important to take care of baby teeth is because if baby teeth aren’t well cared for, tooth decay (aka cavities) may develop. This decay can cause pain and infection that spreads into the gums and cause damage to developing adult teeth.

The 3rd truth is that healthy baby teeth help with proper speech development, chewing, and maintaining space for the adult teeth to come in correctly.

Myth #2 Cavities Are Only Caused By Sugar

Truth: Sugar does play a large role in cavities, but there is also another cause for you to be aware of. Starches in chips, crackers and cookies lower the pH of saliva which makes the saliva more acidic. A lower pH saliva causes cavities to form more quickly and more often.

Myth #3 Children Can Brush Their Own Teeth

Truth: Yes, you should have your child brush their own teeth, BUT ONLY IF they can do it effectively. Most children can’t brush their own teeth because they are too young to have the dexterity to know how to adapt the toothbrush around their mouth. This takes time for a child to develop. You can start your nightly brushing routine when your child is young by spending time with your toddler showing him/her how to brush all sides of their teeth and gums effectively.

The 2nd truth is that teaching correct and proper brushing habits early is essential for good life long oral hygiene habits.

Myth #4 Fruit Juice Is Healthy

Truth: Do you know that fruit juice can have as much sugar or more sugar than a soda? Yes, it’s true. This high amount of sugar cancels out all the benefits of the small amount of vitamins in the juice.

The 2nd truth is that all this sugar in the mouth causes the saliva to become acidic. The more times a child drinks a sugary beverage the more acidic their saliva becomes. The lower pH breaks down tooth enamel, which leads to cavities developing.

Myth #5 Children Should Never Chew Gum

Truth: Gum can be good for children’s teeth, as long as it’s sugar-free. This is because sugar-free gum helps neutralize the pH of saliva.

A 2nd truth is that the action of chewing increases the amount of saliva in the mouth. Both of these aspects can help keep cavities away.

What To Remember

Children’s dental health is a vital aspect of their over all health and well-being.

Share The Information, Now that you’ve read the truth about the most common children’s tooth truths you can spread the word to everyone you know. This way everyone will understand how to take better care of their child’s dental health.

What children’s tooth myths have you heard? Do you have any tooth truths you’d like to share? Tell us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email to kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us or chat with us on Facebook

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