Tag: Tween And Adolescent Tooth Care

Talking Mom To Mom, What Are The 5 Preventive Dental Care Treatments Your Child Needs Most?

~ kidstoothhotline
Ready To Get My Teeth Counted
Ready To Get My Teeth Counted

In the Know for You To Know

We’ve all heard the saying “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” This is especially true for children’s dental care. As parents it’s important to know that children’s dental care always begins with prevention.

Preventive dental care plays a crucial role in maintaining children’s oral health as they grow. This is an excellent way to prevent cavities, gum disease, and oral health issues. It’s not only about daily brushing. This involves a broader approach.

So what does preventive care look like for children, and why is it so important?

Benefits of Preventive Dentistry for Children

Knowing there are benefits for preventive care helps encourage families to prioritize them. In addition, preventive care allows for dental problems to be caught before they become serious.

The 3 main advantages of preventive care are:

  1. When you take care of your child’s dental health, they are at less risk for painful dental issues,
  2. By having preventive dental care, you can save money and time by avoiding costly dental treatments later on as well as time away from school and work,
  3. Preventive dental care helps set the stage for positive dental hygiene from the earliest stages of childhood into adulthood.
Mommy And Daddy Are Taking Me To The Dentist For My Checkup
Mommy And Daddy Are Taking Me To The Dentist For My Checkup
My Dentist And I Both Did A Good Job
My Dentist And I Both Did A Good Job

Early Preventive Care Is A Life Long Investment In Your Child’s Future

Starting preventive dental care early in childhood sets the foundation for a lifetime of good dental health and healthy smiles.

By establishing good habits when your child is young and keeping up with this, you’re setting your child up for a healthier future.

What’s important is that the effort you put in now will benefit them for years to come.

We Love Our Dentist So Much We Play Dentist At Home
We Love Our Dentist So Much We Play Dentist At Home
Saying Cheese For My Dentist
Saying Cheese For My Dentist

Long Term Benefits of Preventive Care

You want to continue investing in preventive care for your child as it lays the foundation for sound dental health as they grow. The long term benefits of preventive dentistry reach far into adulthood.

4 long term benefits for children who receive preventive care are that they are more likely to:

  • Keep their teeth longer,
  • Avoid losing teeth or having root canals later on in life,
  • Have a confident and energetic smile,
  • Enjoy better overall health.
I Always Learn Something New About Toothbrushing
I Always Learn Something New About Toothbrushing
My Dentist Always Talks About My Teeth With My Mom
My Dentist Always Talks About My Teeth With My Mom

5 Best Preventive Dental Care Treatments For Children

These are the top 5 preventive treatments children should receive for strong, healthy teeth:

1. Routine Dental Examinations and Cleanings

Brushing and flossing at home are essential. But they are not enough.

Regular professional cleanings are necessary to set a solid foundation for oral health. Plaque and tartar build up are removed. The mouth, teeth and gums are examined for any signs of irritation, tooth decay, and bite problems. If anything of concern is found it can be addressed quickly before there is a chance to get worse.

It’s important to know that these visits should begin when your child’s first tooth comes in or no later than their 1st birthday; and regularly every six months. Also, as your child grows the familiarity of these visits help build their confidence and rapport while creating pleasant and positive dental experiences.

2. Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and minimizes the risk of tooth decay.

A simple application during a routine visit can yield many benefits. It’s safe, effective, and a great way to build strong teeth and stay free of cavities. Even though it’s found in the drinking water throughout some communities, it’s still important to have this specific treatment at the dentist’s office.

3. Dental Sealants

Sealants are a highly effective preventive treatment. They act as a barrier that keeps food particles and plaque bacteria from settling into the grooves of the teeth, especially the molars.

Sealants can offer years of protection which greatly reduces the risk of cavities.

4. Custom Mouth Guard

If your child plays sports, a custom mouthguard is a crucial piece of equipment, especially in contact sports. It can protect their teeth from injury, reduce the risk of jaw fractures and concussion. Sure you can get one at the sports store, but it doesn’t offer the same fit, comfort, and protection.

5. Orthodontic Evaluation

It’s recommended to have your child examined by an orthodontist around age 7. While your child’s teeth may look straight, these visits can provide insight beyond what you see at the surface.

The orthodontist will evaluate jaw growth, tooth eruption, and bite development. Issues such as crowding, spacing, and mis-alignments can be addressed early. These early interventions can reduce the need for complex orthodontic treatment later on.

If no treatment is needed, making the connection as a part of preventive treatment brings you peace of mind.

What To Remember

Preventive dental care is a shared effort with you as the parent, your dentist; and as your child grows up this includes them as well. At its core preventive dental care is proactive treatment providing your child with good oral health today and into their future.

Treating your child’s teeth proactively instead of reactively helps avoid cavities, gum disease, and the need for multiple or complex procedures.

My Dentist And I Are Both Checking Out My Smile
My Dentist And I Are Both Checking Out My Smile

So what do you think? Do you agree? Are you team prevention? If you don’t agree that’s okay, why you feel the way you do? Is there more you want to know? What are your own experiences with preventive dental care? Did you receive preventive dental care growing up? Tell Us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@protonmail.me Like Us on Facebook

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

Talking Mom To Mom – Game On, Safety First, Why Should My Child Wear A Mouth Guard?

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I May Look Young But I Can Really Get My Speed Up So I Always Wear My Mouthguard, Thanks Mom!
I May Look Young But I Can Really Get My Speed Up So I Always Wear My Mouthguard, Thanks Mom!

In the Know for You to Know

As parents we always say “wear your helmet!” Especially when our children want to ride their bike, skateboard or scooter. We also say this when they play baseball, football, hockey or lacrosse.

But, have you ever said “wear your mouth guard!”?

Why would you? One word, protection. While a helmet protects a child’s head, a mouthguard protects their teeth, mouth and their head.

You’re thinking, “how does a mouthguard protect a child’s head?” As parents we’ve heard about concussions. We think about concussions as occurring from a blow to the head. However, a hit to the teeth, mouth or jaw can also cause a concussion.

Now you’re thinking, Why are mouth guards so important? How can a mouthguard help prevent an injury?

So stay tuned and keep reading on how to keep your child’s teeth safe.

What Is A Mouth Guard?

A mouth guard is a soft, flexible plastic that fits over the teeth.

It’s used to soften the impact if your child gets hit in the face. Rather than letting the teeth absorb all the impact, the mouth guard distributes the force, reducing the risk of severe dental injuries.

A mouth guard is a protective aid in absorbing and re-distributing the force of the impact that may otherwise cause harm to the jawbone, cheekbones, lips and head. When paired with additional protective gear, such as a padded helmet, it helps to protect your child’s head and mouth.

My Sports Gear Includes My Mouthguard
My Sports Gear Includes My Mouthguard

Types of Mouth Guards

There are 3 types of mouth guards:

  1. Stock – These are found in sporting goods stores and come pre-formed, ready to wear. One size fits most and may not fit very well. They are made of hard plastic, can be bulky and uncomfortable to wear and talk with.
  2. Boil and bite – These mouth protectors can also be bought at many sporting goods stores and may have a better fit than stock mouth protectors. They are first softened in hot boiling water, then placed in the mouth and with your child moving their lips, tongue and cheeks around and closing their teeth together, is adapted to the shape of their mouth. It’s important to be very careful because this is very hot water and very hot plastic.
  3. Custom – These are made by your pediatric dentist specifically for your child. Because it’s custom made, this provides the best fit. They fit snugly, allowing your athlete to run and talk more easily while playing sports. Custom mouth guards are comfortable, and offer excellent protection. They can be made in a wide variety of colors and designs.

Why Is It Important To Wear A Mouth Guard?

A mouth guard is a mouth protector which helps cushion a blow to the 
mouth and face. This minimizes the risk of broken teeth and injuries to your child’s lips, tongue, face, jaws and head.

While collision and contact sports, such as basketball and boxing are higher risk sports for the mouth, children can experience a dental injury in non-contact activities too, such as gymnastics and skating.

My Balance Beam Is Really High And The Mat Is Far Away, I'm Happy I'm Wearing My Mouthguard
My Balance Beam Is Really High And The Mat Is Far Away, I’m Happy I’m Wearing My Mouthguard
Playing Basketball, Guess Who Is Wearing A Mouthguard?
Playing Basketball, Guess Who Is Wearing A Mouthguard?

When Your Child Needs To Wear A Mouth Guard

From a safety stand point it’s wise for a child to wear a mouth guard for any sport or activity where there is a chance of contact. Even non-contact sports can lead to accidents.

If it’s a sport that involves a lot of movement, there’s always a chance of being hit or colliding with another child

What Sports Need A Mouth Guard?

Wearing a mouth guard is recommended for:

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Softball
  • Football
  • Soccer
  • Lacrosse
  • Rugby
  • Wrestling
  • Martial arts
  • Recreational sports such as skateboarding, bicycling, inline skating, gymnastics, volley ball, soft ball.

How Many Mouth Guards Does My Child Have To Wear?

One.

A mouth guard covers the top teeth, and are a great way to protect the soft tissues of their tongue, lips and cheek lining.


There are certain times when depending on specific needs it may be recommended for your child to have a mouthguard which covers their lower teeth.

Can My Child Wear A Mouth Guard With Braces?

A properly fitted mouthguard is especially important for children who have braces.

A hit to the face can damage the wires and brackets or other orthodontic appliances. The mouthguard provides a protective barrier between the braces and their cheeks and lips, limiting the risk of gum and soft tissue injuries.

How To Take Care Of Your Child’s Mouth Guard

4 Tips for taking care of your child’s mouth guard:

  1. Rinse with cool water before each use and after wearing brush with toothpaste, rinse, and dry.
  2. Keep the mouthguard in a sturdy container that has vents and in a safe place. Vents allow air to circulate and help prevent the mouthguard from drying out.
  3. Don’t take the mouthguard out and leave it in the sun. Avoid high temperatures, hot water, hot surfaces and direct sunlight. They will distort the mouth guard.
  4. Check for wear and tear. A mouthguard that’s torn, wearing out, or doesn’t fit any more can irritate your child’s mouth and decrease the amount of protection it provides.

What To Remember

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

So let’s protect those precious smiles and ensure the memories you take home are happy ones.

Mom Is Trying To Balance Me On My Rollerblades And So Happy We Remembered My Mouthguard
Mom Is Trying To Balance Me On My Rollerblades And So Happy We Remembered My Mouthguard
Wishing I Listened and Wore My Mouth Guard.jpg
Wishing I Listened and Wore My Mouth Guard.jpg
Bicycle Riding And I Forgot My Mouthguard
Bicycle Riding And I Forgot My Mouthguard
Helmet, Bat and Mouthguard, All Set To Play Ball
Helmet, Bat and Mouthguard, All Set To Play Ball

Did you wear a mouth guard when you played sports? Thinking back, do you think you should have worn one? How old was your child when they started wearing their helmet to ride their bike or scooter? What sports does your child play? Has your child’s coach told you to have them wear a mouthguard? Have you asked your child’s coach about mouth guards? Are you ready to take the next step in protecting your child’s smile when they play their favorite sports? Tell Us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@protonmail.me Like Us on Facebook

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

Writing Your Own Social Story To Prepare Your Child For Their Dental Visit

~ kidstoothhotline
Having Fun Reading Our Story To My Sister About Going To The Dentist
Having Fun Reading Our Story To My Sister About Going To The Dentist

In the Know for You To Know

As a parent, you know preventing dental related issues is important, and you also know that this is not so simple when your child has Autism.

Whether your child is sensitive to light and sounds or smells and tastes or does not know how to express these feelings; you want them to have a positive experience.

You’re thinking, how do you do this? Once you’ve made their appointment think about telling them a story about going to the dentist. Not just any story. This is a personalized story you’ve written just for them.

Now you’re thinking, why tell them a story about going to the dentist? Story telling is a great way to introduce new or unfamiliar experiences to your child. It’s also a way to re-introduce unpleasant experiences in a positive way.

Since we all love to tell a really good story or listen to one, today we’re helping you write your own dental social story.

When To Start Preparing Your Child For Their Dental Visit

Once you’ve made your child’s appointment you know when it’s best to introduce this to them. Your approach needs to be tailored to your child’s individual needs.

Your child may do well if you wait until the day before or day of the appointment to talk to them about their visit. Most children do not. So preparing them starts weeks before their appointment.

Preparing a child with autism for their trip to the dentist well in advance can be very helpful in easing anxiety and having a calm and successful visit.

You’re thinking, what is the best way to prepare them?, and how do I write a social story?

What Is A Social Story?

Social stories use positive, simple, straight forward language to describe the sequence of events your child will experience. The stories usually have photos or pictures to help show the things they will see, hear, and do.

My Daddy Is Reading To Me Our Story About My Dentist Visit
My Daddy Is Reading To Me Our Story About My Dentist Visit

Writing Your Own Social Story

After you’ve made your child’s dental appointment consider taking pictures of the street the office is on, the parking lot, the outside of the building, the office’s front door with the dentist’s name.

You might want to stop by and ask if you can take some pictures of the office to include in your social story. Introducing yourself and your child ahead of time helps everyone, especially your child.

This way you’re showing your child what to expect step by step.

My Mom Recorded Our Dentist Story And Now We Can Read And Listen Together
My Mom Recorded Our Dentist Story And Now We Can Read And Listen Together

Things To Keep In Mind When Writing Your Social Story

  • Write your story for your child, use their name;
  • Stay positive;
  • Give examples;
  • Pictures help explain;
  • Leave room for questions;
  • Include a “The End” to complete your story.

Using a scrap book or empty picture book can help you organize your child’s story. You can also use your phone, since children love the phone.

Your Social Story

Steps What Will Be Happening
1We’re going to the Dentist and we’ll be driving down this street. Then we’ll park our car near the Dentist’s office. After we park the car we’ll walk to the Dentist’s office. The office is upstairs/downstairs/on the walk-in floor so we may/may not need to take an elevator ride; or we may/may not take the stairs. When we get to the Dentist’s office we’ll open the door and walk in.
2There is a lady sitting behind a desk. She’s the receptionist. She’ll say hello to us when we walk in. After we say hello, we’ll tell her your name. She may ask us to sit down and watch a movie, or play one of the games until it’s our turn.
3When it’s our turn the hygienist will call your name. The hygienist is the lady/man who cleans your teeth.
Then we’ll all walk together to a room with a few special chairs that look like Daddy’s recliner chair.
4The hygienist will ask you to sit down in the chair. The hygienist will tell you that this chair is special because it moves up and down and reclines back almost like a bed, but you don’t have to take a nap.
The hygienist will show you the buttons that make the chair move and will show you how the chair moves.
5The hygienist will show you how the chair moves back so she and the Dentist can look at all your teeth even the one’s all the way in the back. The hygienist will also tell you that when you’re lying down on the chair you can hold my hand and put your legs straight out.
6Then the hygienist will ask you to sit on the chair. After you sit down the hygienist will tell you that she’s going to press the button for the chair to lay down. Let’s ask if you can press the button.
7The hygienist will ask you how big you can open your mouth?, and count how long you can stay open wide.
The hygienist will show you the big light she and the dentist use so they can see all your teeth. Before she turns the light on, the hygienist will ask you if I want to wear sunglasses because the light is bright or if you want to close your eyes.
8The hygienist will show you the special mirror she and the dentist use to look at your teeth. She’ll let you touch the mirror will also show you what the mirror feels like on your lips and tongue and cheeks.
Then the hygienist will show you and let you touch the tooth counter she and the dentist use to count and check your teeth.
9The hygienist will show you the special floss string she uses to clean in-between your teeth, she’ll let you touch the floss and she’ll show you how it feels in-between your fingers. Then she’ll floss your teeth.
10The hygienist will show you the special power toothbrush and special toothpaste she uses to clean your teeth. Then she will let you touch this special toothbrush and she’ll show you what the brush feels like on your finger and then on your teeth. The best part is that the hygienist says you get to pick the flavor of your toothpaste.
The hygienist will show you the special tooth vitamins she puts on your teeth after the dentist checks your teeth with his mirror and tooth counter. And you also get to pick your flavor.
11The dentist may want to take special pictures of your teeth. The hygienist will explain that these photos are called x-rays and you get to wear a super special emoji apron to take the x-rays. The apron may feel heavy to take the pictures.
12When you’re all finished the hygienist will give you a fun bag filled with a brand new toothbrush and toothpaste, and you’ll get to choose a super special prize and sticker.
13After you get your prize we’ll go back and make your next appointment with the receptionist.
14Then it’s time to say Goodbye and go to our car. Maybe we’ll go someplace special afterwards since you did such a good job.
The End

Why Social Stories Are Helpful

Remember last week when we talked about positive dental visits? We also talked about a technique called Tell-Show-Do. This is essentially what a social story is doing.

You are introducing your child to their dental visit by Telling them about their visit. You’re explaining their entire visit to them step by step from beginning to end.

When you’re at their visit the Tell is reinforced and then it’s adding the Show and Do.

Helpful Information For Parents And Caregivers

  1. Explaining the reason for the visit helps your child know what to expect. This helps to decrease worrying and begins to build trust.
  2. Meeting the Receptionist is the first step into the office and helps start on a good note. Activities during wait time helps time pass and reduce anxiety.
  3. Knowing people’s roles helps identify them and make them familiar.
  4. Clear instructions using everyday words helps reduce anxiety and provides structure.
  5. Knowing what to expect increases comfort and helps to establish expectations.
  6. Describing what will be happening during their appointment and being part of this builds confidence.
  7. Wearing sunglasses or closing their eyes can reduce light sensitivity.
  8. Seeing and touching the instruments first helps build consistency and predictability.
  9. Describing what they will feel during their visit ahead of time helps to prevent surprise.
  10. Involving your child helps them look forward to and focus on their specific part of their visit.
  11. A clear end to the visit with a prize helps end the visit in a positive way.
My Mom Is Telling Me About Flossing My Teeth
My Mom Is Telling Me About Flossing My Teeth At My Dentist Visit

What To Remember

Social stories help to better prepare your child for their dental visit. These stories walk you and your child through what you can expect at their appointment. Each step shows where they’ll be going and what they’ll be doing.

With practice and preparation, dental visits for children with autism can become more accepted and predictable over time.

I hope this is helpful and reassuring for you as a parent. Every child deserves to have a positive experience at each dental visit.

Have you heard about social stories? Have you written your own social story for your child? Was it helpful? Do you want to start all over again with a new story? 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!

Happy Spring Holidays!

~ kidstoothhotline
Happy Holidays
Happy Holidays

In the Know for You To Know

Happy Holidays!

Wishing you and your family the most beautiful of holidays.

Happy Passover

Happy Passover
Happy Passover


Happy Easter

Happy Easter
Happy Easter


Happy Orthodox Easter

Happy Orthodox Easter
Happy Orthodox Easter

From each of us at KidsTootHotline to each of you all our best for an amazing holiday.

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

Talking Mom To Mom, How To Tell If That Bubble On Your Child’s Lip Is A Mucocele

~ kidstoothhotline
The Bubble On My Lip Is Right Here
The Bubble On My Lip Is Right Here

In the Know for You to Know

You’re going about your regular day. Work, school, after school, dinner, homework. Then you walk into your child’s room and notice they’re playing with their lip. They see you standing there and before you can ask anything, they say “Mom, look at this bubble on my lip.”

When you look, there is definitely a bubble on the inside of their lip. Then you think back and don’t recall anything being there yesterday or the day before that.

After a few questions you find out that this bubble comes and goes, it gets bigger and smaller, thankfully doesn’t hurt, and they run their tongue and teeth over it when it’s there.

But what is this bubble? Where did it come from? Why does it come and go, and change shape?

There is a specific type of bubble that is commonly found in the mouth that acts in this way; it’s called a Mucocele.

So, what is there to know about mucoceles?

What Is A Mucocele?

A mucocele is another name for a mucous cyst. By nature, cysts are fluid filled sacs.

Mucoceles are frequently seen in children due to their tendency to bite or suck on their lips and cheeks. These habits can lead to trauma not only to the delicate oral tissues but also to the minor salivary glands which lie underneath.

These glands have ducts which provide a path for the saliva to flow into the mouth. When these ducts are blocked the saliva has no where to go. Saliva keeps forming and with no where to go causes the glands to swell. The swollen salivary glands become a mucocele.

What Does A Mucocele Look Like?

Mucoceles tend to be transparent, mucous-filled dome shaped bubbles.

The bubble may be clear or the same color as the mouth tissues. It can take on a bluish or reddish color depending on where it is and how much pressure there is from the buildup of saliva.

Sometimes the surface may become white, rough or scaly due to repeated sucking on the bubble.

What Causes A Mucocele To Form?

Mucoceles are usually the result of trauma in the mouth which injures the tiny salivary ducts lying just under the surface of the mouth tissues.

Lip or cheek biting and/or sucking causes trauma which injures these salivary gland ducts. Saliva keeps on forming normally. It is the ongoing accumulation of saliva under the surface that causes the mouth tissues to bulge. This bulge is the saliva bubble (mucocele) that you see and feel.

Why Do Mucoceles Get Bigger and Smaller?

Mucoceles may fluctuate in size. They can often grow larger and then shrink. In some cases, they can rupture spontaneously releasing the built up saliva into the mouth.

However, they can reappear if the underlying cause is not addressed.

How Common Are Mucoceles?

4 things to know:

  1. Mucoceles are most common in children between the ages of 3 and 20 years old.
  2. This is the age range where you’ll see 70% of mucoceles.
  3. The peak age for mucoceles to occur is between the ages of 10 and 20 years old.
  4. The inside of the lower lip is the most common place for a mucocele to form.
I Don't Want Anyone To See The Bubble On My Lip
I Don’t Want Anyone To See The Bubble On My Lip

Where Else Are Mucoceles Found In The Mouth?

Mucoceles can develop in a few places in the mouth.

These areas include the:

  • Lips
  • Cheeks
  • Underneath the Tongue (called a Ranula)
The Bubble Is On The Inside Of This Cheek
The Bubble Is On The Inside Of This Cheek

Do You Need To Worry About Mucoceles?

Mucoceles are generally harmless and tend to resolve on their own. They can be a source of discomfort and may persist if not evaluated and properly treated.

Is Any Treatment Needed For Mucoceles?

When treating mucoceles in children, pediatric dentists often opt for a conservative approach. In many cases, the mucoceles will deflate on their own and heal without intervention.

However, if a mucocele persists, becomes painful, interferes with eating and speaking then surgical excision may be necessary to alleviate discomfort and help prevent recurrence.

When To Seek Care For A Mucocele

If your child experiences any of these symptoms, you need to contact your pediatric dentist or pediatrician:

  • Mucoceles That Persist for More Than a Few Weeks – Most mucoceles resolve on their own over time. However, if this remains unchanged for several weeks or shows no signs of improvement, it’s important to make an appointment with a pediatric dentist for a thorough assessment.
  • Pain, Discomfort, or Interfere with Daily Activities – While mucoceles are typically painless, the size, presence and location can cause discomfort while eating, speaking, or chewing.
  • Frequent Recurrence or Rapid Growth – If the mucocele ruptures and then reappears frequently or grows rapidly, this may indicate an important underlying issue which needs to be identified and addressed.

My First Patient With A Mucocele

Like the saying goes, the first time you see something won’t be the last time. The first time I saw a child with a mucocele was when I was in the 1st year of my pediatric dentistry residency

I have seen mucoceles many times over the years since then. Each time a child comes into my office with one, I remember back to the first time a Mom brought her daughter in to have “her lip bubble” checked out.

What you learn from textbooks is not always how you see it in person. But this was classic.

A Mom brought her school age daughter into see me since this “cheek bubble” was “there for a while.” They were great with giving me an understanding of the time line, what had changed, and what their concerns were.

What Did I See On My Examination That Led Me To Diagnose This “Bubble” As A Mucocele?

The cheeks like the lips have many, many little salivary glands. When 1 or more of these glands is hurt their ducts get squished and the saliva has no place to go so it stays inside the gland.

Saliva is continuously being made so it builds up in each gland. As the saliva builds up it creates a “bubble.”

In this child’s case the bubble was the size of a pencil eraser and the color of her cheek. The cause? Cheek biting. Not just one time. As her Mom said “only when she gets nervous.”

What Caused This Mom To Bring Her Daughter In For An Examination?

According to Mom, she noticed her daughter was biting her cheek a lot. Then during toothbrushing the previous night, she also noticed the “bubble” was bigger than before and came in the next morning.

Why Didn’t Mom Bring Her Daughter In When She First Noticed The “Bubble?”

I asked Mom why she hadn’t called or come in before? Mom said that since it wasn’t bothering her and it would come and go she wasn’t worried. But when she saw it the night before all that changed and she brought her daughter in. Which we were both glad she did.

What Was The Treatment For This Child?

Since this mucocele had been an ongoing issue at the time for almost 6 months I gave Mom a referral to the Oral Surgeon. Once I knew the specifics about the Oral Surgeon’s plan for treatment I made them a follow up appointment with me.

The Outcome?

A happy Mom with peace of mind and a happy daughter.

Has your child had a mucocele? What (if any) treatment did they need? Did you know about mucoceles before? 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!

Talking Mom To Mom, Why World Health Day Is So Important

~ kidstoothhotline
Brushing My Teeth Like My Daddy So I'll Be Big And Strong Like Him
Brushing My Teeth Like My Daddy So I’ll Be Big And Strong Like Him

In the Know for You to Know

World Oral Health Day is a global observance dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of oral health and promoting good oral hygiene practices.

This day emphasizes the connection between oral health and overall well-being, encouraging parents and people of all ages to take care of their children’s and their own teeth and gums.

So what is there to know about World Oral Health Day?

What Is World Oral Health Day?

This is an annual event that focuses on the significance of maintaining good oral health throughout life.

World Oral Health Day’s goal is to encourage and develop better oral care practices.

When Is World Oral Health Day?

World Oral Health Day is observed every year on March 20th.

March 20th was chosen to reflect the importance of the number 20 in oral health. Children should have 20 baby teeth, and seniors should aim to have at least 20 of their natural teeth.

History Of World Oral Health Day

World Oral Health Day was launched by the FDI World Dental Federation in 2007 to raise awareness about oral health and its impact on overall health.

For 2026 the motto “A Happy Mouth is…A Happy Life” inspires lasting, positive change by showing the vital role oral health plays in living a healthier, happier life; which begins in childhood.

Nice Clean Mouth And All Ready For Bed
Nice Clean Mouth And All Ready For Bed
Mommy And Daddy Give Me Yummy Healthy Foods For My Teeth And To Grow
Mommy And Daddy Give Me Yummy Healthy Foods For My Teeth And To Grow

Why is World Oral Health Day Important?

Oral health is a crucial component of overall health.

Poor oral hygiene can lead to a range of issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, and even systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Systemic disease in adulthood can be traced back to childhood habits.

Oral Health Across The Lifespan

A positive mouth-body connection ultimately shows how oral health supports well being throughout life.

Oral health matters at every age and stage of life. From a baby’s first tooth to a confident smile in older age, oral health is far more than just healthy teeth. It shapes how we eat, speak, learn, work, and connect with one another.

Oral health is essential to living life to the fullest. It is inseparable from overall health, influencing both body and mind.

At its core is prevention, simple daily habits and regular check ups that can make a lifelong difference.

Love To Brush My Teeth
Love To Brush My Teeth
Good Teeth and Great Grades
Good Teeth and Great Grades
Still No Cavities At My Age, Healthy Mouth And Healthy Me
Still No Cavities At My Age, Healthy Mouth And Healthy Me
Learning To Hold A Scisssor Is Like Learning To Hold A Toothbrush
Learning To Hold A Scisssor Is Like Learning To Hold A Toothbrush
Flossing Is Part Of My Nightly Routine For Heathy Gums
Flossing Is Part Of My Nightly Routine For Heathy Gums

Ways To Celebrate World Oral Health Day

Celebrating World Oral Health Day is celebrating every life, young and old. Because feeling your best starts with a healthy smile, every day and at every age.

How To Celebrate

  • Schedule a Dental Check-Up: Use this day as a reminder to schedule your children’s and your regular dental check ups. Early detection and prevention are key to maintaining good oral health.
  • Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Make sure everyone brushes their teeth at least twice a day and flosses overnight.
  • Educate Your Family and Friends: Encourage your extended family members and friends to follow a good oral hygiene routine as well.
  • Promote Oral Health In School: As a parent encourage your children’s school to talk about oral health and teach children about the importance of brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits.
Happy Heathy Mommy Happy Heathy Baby
Happy Heathy Mommy Happy Heathy Baby
Strong Healthy Teeth, Strong Healthy Me
Strong Healthy Teeth, Strong Healthy Me
Playing Is Like Brushing Teeth And Flossing, We Do It Everyday
Playing Is Like Brushing Teeth And Flossing, We Do It Everyday
Even On Vacation We Still Brush Our Teeth 2X's A Day
Even On Vacation We Still Brush Our Teeth 2X’s A Day
Mommy And Daddy Brush My Teeth And My Tongue
Mommy And Daddy Brush My Teeth And My Tongue

What To Remember

It’s important to prioritize your child’s and your oral health for a very good reason, a healthy mouth is the gateway to a healthy, happy life.

Reading Our Social Story About Keeping Our Teeth And Body Healthy
Reading Our Social Story About Keeping Our Teeth And Body Healthy
Loving My Teen Smile
Loving My Teen Smile
Mommy Fed You And Cleaned Your Mouth Now It's Time For Bed
Mommy Fed You And Cleaned Your Mouth Now It’s Time For Bed

What are your thoughts? Do you think there is a connection between a healthy mouth and a healthy body? Do you believe oral health plays a vital role in living a healthier, happier life? Tell Us, We’d really like to know! Send us an email at kidstoothhotline@proton.me Like Us on Facebook

Healthy Teeth, Healthy Body, Happy Family
Healthy Teeth, Healthy Body, Happy Family

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

Talking Mom To Mom, Why Does My Child Have Bad Breath?

~ kidstoothhotline
Monster Breath
Monster Breath

In the Know for You to Know

When it’s snuggle time with your child, you expect your child’s breath to smell as sweet as they are. While children’s breath can be very sweet, there are times when your toddler to teen’s breath is plain stinky.

Bad breath, also known as Halitosis not uncommon in children. A comprehensive 2014 study found 37.6% of children have bad breath.

As a pediatric dentist I’m routinely asked about this by parents. Most of the time the conversation starts with: Why does my child’s breath smell so bad?, or The white gunk on my child’s tongue smells really bad, or My teenager is really uncomfortable about their breath.

Today I have answers for you about what causes halitosis, how to take care of it and when it needs to be evaluated by your pediatric dentist or your pediatrician.

First Things First, What Is Halitosis?

Halitosis is the medical term for chronic bad breath.

Everyone, even children get bad breath from time to time. Especially after eating stinky foods like garlic, onions or other strong odor foods.

But if bad breath is ongoing or doesn’t resolve, it could be a sign of an oral health issue or something else going on in their body.

Bad breath isn’t usually a sign of something serious. But if it doesn’t get better despite changes you make to address it, it’s time to see the pediatric dentist or pediatrician.

9 Most Common Causes of Bad Breath In Children

1. Mouth Breathing

Everyone breathes through their mouths once in a while, especially when it’s cold and flu season. Even then you’ll notice that your mouth feels dry and chapped.

This is because breathing through the mouth, and especially for children who breathe through their mouths every night when they sleep do dry out their mouth. The drying effect is due to a decrease in saliva production. Less saliva means more dry mouth.

What else can cause mouth breathing? Something stuck in their nose, congestion from a sinus infection, seasonal allergies, or certain medicines like an asthma inhaler. When any of these issues show no signs of resolving anytime soon, it’s time to see your pediatrician.

2. Enlarged Tonsils or Tonsil Stones

Tonsillitis is an infection that makes the tonsils appear red and swollen. It occurs due to viruses or bacteria.

On the other hand, enlarged tonsils and adenoids can cause bad breath when they trap nasal secretions, food particles, and bacteria.

Tonsil stone(s) sit on the surface of the tonsil(s). With time it attaches food and bacteria. Since you can’t reach it to clean, what’s on it stays there and attracts more and more. This is the time to see your pediatrician.

3. Dehydration and Not Enough Saliva

Drinking the right amount of water is important to keep your child’s body hydrated. Being well hydrated means that their salivary glands are producing the correct amount of saliva which in turn helps to cleanse their mouth and teeth, helping them to have fresh breath.

The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research states that saliva helps clean the mouth. When children don’t drink enough water, the amount of saliva in their mouth’s decreases. Less saliva leads a decrease the natural ability to clean our mouths. and an increase in the odor causing bacteria in our mouths.

4. Oral Hygiene And Tongue Coating

Poor oral hygiene can cause smelly breath even in children as young as toddlers. The most common places for food debris to hang out is in-between teeth, on the gums, and also on the tongue.

Food debris is more than left over particles of food, it is also the mouth bacteria that attaches onto the food, and all of this together make up what we call dental plaque (or plaque for short).

Ever notice a white coating on your child’s tongue? That’s the plaque that attaches to the natural crevices on their tongue. You know that if the plaque is on the tongue, it’s for sure on the teeth and gums.

5. Cavities, Loose Fillings, Loose Crowns, Dental Infection

Did you know that bacteria causes cavities? Yes they do.

The natural bacteria in the mouth latch onto the plaque. The longer this sits on the teeth and in-between the teeth the more the tooth enamel is broken down, which is how cavities are formed and grow.

Cavities keep growing and the larger it gets the more likely it is to cause an infection. When the infection forms more types of bacteria come to the site and since these bacteria have their own smell the mouth gets even smellier.

If your child has a loose crown or filling, food and bacteria can get trapped underneath, which can also cause bad breath.

6. Gum Disease

The same plaque that sits on the teeth, in-between teeth and on the tongue also sits on the gums and causes their breath to smell like sulfur or rotten eggs. Also known as gingivitis, this causes the gums to become red, swollen and bleed during toothbrushing.

7. Eating Smelly Foods

Some of the foods we really like are good for us and are happy our children want to eat can cause smelly breath. The most talked about are onions and garlic.

So what to do? After enjoying your oniony-garlicky delights, your child can rinse their mouth with water, brush their teeth, or chew sugar-free gum to freshen up their breath.

The sugar free gum helps to stimulate saliva production to naturally help cleanse their mouths.

8. Medical Conditions

Your child may have bad breath if they have certain medical conditions, such as tonsillitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, or other respiratory infections.

If your child has a serious medical condition such as diabetes, kidney disease, gastrointestinal issues, liver disease they may also experience chronic bad breath.

9. An Object In The Nose

Some children, especially toddlers like to put things into their nose, whether it’s a tiny toy, something they find, or bits of food.

When something gets put into the nose, it causes an increase in nasal secretions like a runny nose, inflammation and a bad smell that can be mistaken for bad breath. This is the time to seek immediate medical attention.

You Mean Stuff Caught In My Braces Can Give Me Stinky Breath
You Mean Stuff Caught In My Braces Can Give Me Stinky Breath
Good Morning Breath
Good Morning Breath

What You Can Do To Get Rid Of Your Child’s Bad Breath

Children can have halitosis for several reasons, and the approach to treatment depends on the cause.

Sometimes it’s a trip to your pediatrician to make sure everything is okay; or sometimes it’s your pediatric dentist you contact.

Sometimes what you’re doing at home is the solution to taking care of your child’s bad breath.

4 Tips For Your At Home Oral Hygiene Routine:

1. Good daily oral hygiene –

Toothbrushing twice a day in the morning before going to school and at night after flossing. Remember to brush their tongue and use a fluoride toothpaste to help reduce the risk of cavities;

2. Change their toothbrush –

Toothbrush bristles wear down with regular twice daily use and should be changed every 3 months to make sure your child’s teeth are properly cleaned so their breath can stay fresh;

3. Brush to their favorite tunes

Or use a 2 minute brushing timer;

4. Be rock stars of the toothbrushing world together –

Brush teeth together and establish your daily routine.

What To Remember

Most children and teenagers have bad breath when they wake up. This usually goes away after they have something to eat, drink and brush their teeth.

Key ways to prevent bad breath for your child is to:

  • Maintain good oral hygiene including toothbrushing, flossing, tongue brushing,
  • Decreasing the habit of mouth breathing by learning how to breathe through their nose,
  • Staying well hydrated by drinking healthy amounts of water which also helps maintain adequate flow of saliva.

However, there are times when you’re concerned because your child’s bad breath doesn’t go away no matter what you do. This is the time for you to talk with your pediatric dentist or pediatrician.

Mommy And Daddy Love Your Sweet Smelling Breath
Mommy And Daddy Love Your Sweet Smelling Breath
I Love My Mommy And Daddy, And They Love My Fresh Breath
I Love My Mommy And Daddy, And They Love My Fresh Breath

Have you noticed your child’s breath lately? Are you worried your child may have bad breath? Has your child asked you how their breath smells? 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!

Talking Mom To Mom, Are Mouth Piercings Worth The Risk?

~ kidstoothhotline
Showing Off My Mouth Piercing, Now Have To Really Watch My Teeth
Showing Off My Mouth Piercing, Now Have To Really Watch My Teeth

In the Know for You to Know

Back in the day it was all about getting your ears pierced. I remember being so excited when my parents finally said I was old enough to get my ears pierced and pick out my first set of earrings.

Fast forward to today. Now it’s about piercing the tongue, lips, cheeks, skin around the mouth and even the uvula (the little flap of skin hanging down in the back of the mouth).

You may not be surprised to see a teenager with a face or mouth piercing. But it may be surprising to know how dangerous they can be.

While everyone likes to display their personal style, oral piercings can cause dental problems along with other health risks and complications.

How Harmful Are Mouth Piercings?

Piercings can interfere with:

  • Speaking,
  • Chewing,
  • Swallowing.

They can also cause:

  • Pain,
  • Swelling,
  • Infections,
  • Choking.

In addition:

  • Some children may be allergic to the metal in the piercing,
  • Piercings on the face and lips can lead to facial scarring,
  • Tongue piercings can lead to broken teeth, nerve damage or speech problems.

How Do Mouth Piercings Hurt Teeth?

Piercings can hurt teeth in several ways:

  • Cut into the gums and cause the gums to recede away from the teeth,
  • Crack teeth,
  • Scratch teeth,
  • Cause sensitive teeth,
  • Damage fillings.
  • The mouth jewelry may become trapped between the teeth,
  • Having a piercing in the mouth can also lead to excessive drooling.
I'm Expressing My Real Self
I’m Expressing My Real Self
My New Lip Piercing
My New Lip Piercing

Recommendations For Parents

Everyday Care:

  1. Keep the piercing site clean and call your pediatrician immediately if your child shows any signs of infection.
  2. Avoid clicking the jewelry against teeth and avoid stress on the piercing.
  3. Be gentle and aware of the jewelry’s movement when talking and chewing.
  4. Check the tightness of their mouth jewelry daily (with clean hands) to help prevent swallowing or choking if the jewelry becomes dislodged.
  5. See your pediatric dentist regularly, and remember to brush twice a day and floss daily.

When Taking Part In Sports:

  1. Remove the jewelry,
  2. Protect their mouth with a mouthguard.
Piercings Are So Not Us
Piercings Are So Not Us

What To Remember

The best advice about oral piercings is to avoid getting them altogether.

If your child already has a piercing prevention is best. Something doesn’t seem right? It’s best to remove their mouth jewelry before it causes more of a problem, and contact your pediatric dentist or pediatrician.

Don’t pierce on a whim. The piercing will be an added responsibility to your child’s and to your life, requiring constant attention.

If you’ve made the decision to have a piercing done, make sure an experienced professional does the piercing.

Just Say NO To Piercing
Just Say NO To Piercing

Does your child have a mouth or face piercing? What type do they have? How do they take care of their piercing? 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!

Talking Mom To Mom, Changes In Your Child’s Mouth That Are Normal

~ kidstoothhotline

My Teeth
My Teeth

In the Know for You to Know

Being a parent means worrying about absolutely everything. Especially when it comes to things in the mouth.

The mouth is a scary place for so many, especially when you’re not quite sure what you’re looking at.

Thankfully there are a few things that don’t need to worry you. These are actually typical findings seen in a child’s mouth.

Some children may have 1 or 2, some may have all; but all children will experience at least 1 of these changes as they grow.

I’ve put together 9 commonly seen oral changes you may notice in your child’s mouth.

A Baby’s Tooth Chart Is Totally Individual

Children’s teeth are just like they are, lots of variety.

While there is a typical time line for baby teeth to come in there is also variability in the process. Most babies get their first teeth between 4 and 9 months of age.

The exact order the teeth come in doesn’t matter. What matters is that the teeth come in and your child has their full set of 20 baby teeth by about their 3rd birthday.

Still Getting My Baby Teeth
Still Getting My Baby Teeth
My Sister And I Have The Same Teeth But They Came In At Different Times
My Sister And I Have The Same Teeth But They Came In At Different Times

Spaces Between Baby Teeth Are Good

Spaces (or gaps) between baby teeth is good. This is something important that we like to see.

Baby teeth are smaller than adult teeth and permanent teeth need the extra space to come in correctly. Without enough room, crowding can develop as the adult teeth come into the mouth.

Why Are There Spaces Between My New Teeth?
Why Are There Spaces Between My New Teeth?

Children Lose Their Baby Teeth On Their Own Timeline

Generally children start losing (aka exfoliating) their baby teeth around 6 years of age.

However, the earlier baby teeth come into the mouth, the earlier they fall out. Like wise, the later baby teeth come in the later they fall out.

Getting My New Tooth
Getting My New Tooth

Adult Teeth Can Grow In Behind Baby Teeth

Baby teeth start to become loose when the adult teeth push up from under the gums and naturally melts away the baby tooth’s root. Then the adult tooth grows into that same place.

Sometimes the adult tooth isn’t growing directly under the baby tooth, it’s growing a little further to the back behind or in front of the baby tooth. When this happens the baby tooth doesn’t fall out and the adult tooth grows in behind or in front of the baby tooth.

Showing Off My Shark Teeth
Showing Off My Shark Teeth

Adult Molars Grow In Without Losing Baby Teeth

6 year molars (aka first permanent molars or adult molars) are the first set of permanent teeth which come into a child’s mouth that do not replace any baby teeth.

You’ll see these adult molars coming into your child’s mouth all the way in the back in the empty space behind their last baby molar.

See I Have My 6 Year Molars
See I Have My 6 Year Molars

Children Can Have Baby Teeth And Adult Teeth At The Same Time

When children have a combination of baby teeth and adult teeth they are in their mixed dentition.

This is the time when they start losing their front baby teeth and their adult teeth begin to come in. The mixed dentition lasts up to when a child loses their last baby tooth.

Getting My Adult Teeth
Getting My Adult Teeth

Children’s Bite and Jaws Change As They Grow

As children grow so do their jaws. Each growth milestone is reflected in the position of their jaws, the eruption pattern of their teeth, and the alignment of their teeth.

Facial and jaw growth can also affect how teeth look.

This is why it’s important to monitor a child’s developing dentition and growth pattern at regular examinations.

When I Smile This Way You Don't See My Crooked Teeth As Much
When I Smile This Way You Don’t See My Crooked Teeth As Much

Their Gums Are The Windows To Their Teeth

The gums outline teeth in a specific way and the way they look says a lot. When we look at the gums were look at 3 things. The color, the shape and the texture of the gums.

It’s not that only 1 aspect can be off. If 1 is off, there’s something going on that affects all 3 characteristics.

Which is why dry, puffy, red, swollen, irritated, or bleeding gums adversely affect the teeth.

Teeth Can Cause Discomfort As They Come In

Whether it’s baby teeth or adult teeth, as a tooth makes it way toward the tops of the jaws it is common to feel pressure. This pressure, known as teething is sporadic, intermittent, and can be uncomfortable.

When bottom teeth are coming in, it’s common to feel pain in the ears. This is why some children will pull on their ears or put their fingers into their ears.

When the top teeth are coming in, it’s common to feel like they have a headache. This is why some children will rub their foreheads or the tops of their heads.

What To Remember

While these 9 changes are commonplace, if any issues last for more than a couple of days or things are getting worse it’s important to follow up with your pediatric dentist or pediatrician for an examination.

What is the scariest thing you’ve seen in your child’s mouth? Which of these findings has your child had? 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!

Talking Mom To Mom, Happy Valentine’s Day!

~ kidstoothhotline
Happy Valentines Day
Happy Valentines Day

In the Know for You to Know

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Time has really flown by. It feels like yesterday we were ringing in the new year and now Valentine’s Day is almost here. With all these never ending sweets, how are you supposed to protect your child’s healthy smile?

While there are a lot of Valentine’s traditions that involve sugary candies, there are other ways to celebrate this special day.

As a Mom and pediatric dentist, I understand. We want to preserve the fun traditions, the fun foods, but with a twist. A twist that’s equally special with a little less added sugar.

In honor of Valentine’s Day I’ve put together for you some tooth friendly ideas for you to try.

Make Breakfast And Lunch Valentine’s Special

Breakfast

Jazz up their morning pancakes by adding a drop or two of red food coloring to the batter and with a cookie cutter, cut them into heart shapes.

French toast more to their liking? Cut the bread into hearts after cooking.

Bagel and cream cheese or toast part of their breakfast. Add a drop of red food coloring to their cream cheese to make it pinky-red. You can also cut their toast into hearts.

Fruit with breakfast is always great. Cut strawberries into heart shapes and serve with pancakes, or french toast, or bagels, or toast. Or prepare your child’s favorite fruits and serve them in a heart shaped bowl.

Lunch

Keep the celebration going with lunch.

They’ll be so excited when they see their heart shaped sandwich and fruit, especially if you include a hand written heart shaped note next to their plate.

On a cold and frosty Valentine’s soup hits the spot. Why not serve it in a heart shaped bowl?

Having a salad? Arrange your salad fixings in a heart shape along with your heart shaped sides.

Our Mom Made Us A Heart Of Cherries
Our Mom Made Us A Heart Of Cherries
Our Favorite Chocolate Dipped Fruits For Valentines Day
Our Favorite Chocolate Dipped Fruits For Valentines Day

Classroom Valentine’s

Teachers love celebrating Valentine’s Day. They always ask for the children’s (and parents) participation.

Instead of sweets like candies or cupcakes, consider Valentine’s cards with small stickers or toys, and always include one for the teacher.

Family Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas

It’s really nice to receive that heart shaped box of candy. Once the candy is gone, what is there? Celebrating Valentine’s Day is more than candy, it’s lasting memories.

Some great classic gifts are stuffed animals like teddy bears, balloons (or heart shaped bouquets), and of course flowers.

Maybe there’s a certain toy or game your child wants and has been working towards or has earned. A trip to their favorite park is always fun and great together time or family time.

How about a Valentine’s family night out? What about staying home and making some family favorites together?

Valentine's Day Is Coming
Valentine’s Day Is Coming

However you choose to celebrate, Happy Valentine’s Day!

How are you celebrating Valentine’s Day? What are some of your healthier tips for Valentine’s Day? 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!