Oral Care – Page 2 – Latest News from Children's Dental Specialties

Vacation Tips From Your Dentist!

Posted on June 18, 2015March 18, 2021

A vacation from work or school doesn’t mean a vacation from your dental health. In fact, the change in your family’s schedule and diet means that it is even more essential to be vigilant in maintaining those beautiful smiles. Here are five pointers for a healthy mouth while you and your children are traveling or on vacation:

1. Get up to date on your dental visits before you go.

Don’t put off needed visits until you return from your travels. It’s always a good idea to plan ahead, get an appointment early and take care of your teeth before the rush and hustle of vacations. Doing this will help prevent dental issues from ruining your time away from home by detecting any underlying issues that need to be treated before your leave. Holidays and vacation times are also very busy time in dental offices, so you want to make sure your appointments are scheduled and taken care of sooner rather than later.

2. Make a dental travel kit.

Nearly everything comes in a travel size and we’ve found that the activity of putting together a dental travel kit will encourage great habits while you are away from home. Don’t forget to pack travel sized mouthwash, floss and a toothbrush for everyone in the family. We’re excited about new convenient options as well, such as quick disposable toothbrushes that can be carried for “in-between” brushing on the go.

3. Protect your toothbrush.

You want to make sure that your toothbrush stays covered. Extra handling, luggage and hotel bathrooms provide bacteria extra opportunity to find its way onto your bristles and into your mouth. Several options are available, including covers that are anti-bacterial. A closed cover gives a warm, damp place for bacteria to thrive, so remember to let your toothbrush dry before covering it up.

4. Watch what you eat.

We are all more likely to indulge in sugary drinks, snacks and desserts while traveling or on vacation. Why not make a conscious decision to eat a bit healthier this year? Instead of planning your days around food, look for opportunities for more fun. Pack healthy snacks so that you won’t be tempted to grab a quick treat that may not be good for your teeth.

5. Keep your routine.

Whatever you decide to eat, don’t forget your regular dental habits. It may be tempting to just go to bed after a long day of fun, but forgetting your routine could mean no-so-fun dental problems later on. Make brushing and flossing an activity that your family does together. It can be a great opportunity to “debrief” and discuss the activities of the day or plan for the next.

We hope everyone has a great summer full of fun and healthy smiles!

Easy Ideas to Motivate Your Kids to Brush

Posted on May 7, 2015March 18, 2021

It can be difficult for all of us to do something that we’re simply not in the mood for. This is especially true for children, whether it’s bed-time or bath-time. Maintaining good oral hygiene can be a challenge as well, so here are a few tips for motivating your children to keep their teeth healthy:

Let kids pick their own toothbrush.

One of the easiest ways to make brushing fun is to indulge your kids with a themed toothbrush. You can find tooth brushing gear with everything from Sponge Bob to Finding Nemo and even comic book characters and superheroes. Always pick one with soft bristles and with a brush size that is appropriate for their mouth and age. Giving your child an opportunity to choose her own toothbrush empowers her to be an active part of maintaining positive dental habits.

Use a kid-friendly toothpaste.

There are a lot of flavored toothpastes on the market that can help to make tooth brushing less “icky” for kids who don’t like the strong mint or cinnamon flavor of adult toothpastes. This is another opportunity to involve your children by letting them choose their toothpaste flavor. Of course, always make sure that toothpaste is approved by the ADA and carries the ADA seal.

Brush together.

Make oral hygiene a family activity. Toddlers love to imitate their parent’s behavior. The same instinct that leads your children to play dress-up in your closet will make them want to take care of their mouth just like you do. Practicing good oral hygiene together will also give you the chance to notice any issues that your children might have with their brushing technique. It’s important that they don’t brush too hard, and that they don’t miss tricky parts of the mouth like back molars, and under the gums. Remember to help your child brush at least once a day until they develop the fine motor skills to do a good job on their own.

Make it musical!

Music is also a great tool for any repetitive activity. Humming a favorite song together is a good way to ensure that your children are brushing their teeth long enough to thoroughly clean them. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children brush their teeth twice a day, for two minutes per session, which can seem like an eternity for a restless child. Using music makes this time pass quicker and can even serve as a way to measure how long teeth are being brushed. Oral care is a repetitive activity that benefits greatly from a little bit of music.

Ultimately, the goal is to make oral care fun. Just because it is a habit, doesn’t mean it also has to be a chore. We would love to hear your ideas about how you’re making brushing fun in your home!

How To Get Relief From Sensitive Teeth!

Posted on April 9, 2015March 18, 2021

One of the most common dental complaints we hear involves sensitive teeth. People of all ages are affected. Whether it’s biting into a cold ice cream cone or drinking a hot beverage, the pain that can come from hypersensitivity can be more than an inconvenience.

Several things can cause sensitive teeth:

Cracked or fractured teeth
Missing or worn fillings
Gum disease
Cavities

Each of these needs to be treated by a dentist. Ignoring tooth sensitivity or expecting it to get better on its own can cause problems to compound and bring on even more pain. By far, the most common cause of tooth sensitivity is exposed dentin, the soft tissue just below the hard enamel that protects your teeth. Dentin can be exposed by one of the causes listed above, or simply because it has worn away as a result of abrasion.

This article from the American Dental Association addresses several of the treatments available for tooth sensitivity.

If your tooth sensitivity is mild, and if a dental visit has shown no need for advanced medical treatment, there are a few steps you can take yourself to help control or even eliminate pain. You might consider the following:

Use toothpaste made specifically for sensitive teeth.

Because most sensitivity is caused by exposed dentin, many types of toothpaste made for this purpose work by filling in the microscopic channels in the dentin.

Use a mouthwash with fluoride.

Mild gum disease, which again causes an exposure of the dentin, can often be treated by the regular use of a fluoride rinse. This will help to strengthen the enamel on your teeth and reduce the bacteria that is attacking your teeth and gums.

Stop using medium or hard toothbrushes.

Your toothbrush should be one with soft bristles as most of us already use too much force when brushing. This can further wear away enamel and cause greater sensitivity.

Start brushing and flossing regularly.

If you aren’t brushing twice a day, as well as flossing, you should start. The buildup of plaque on your teeth creates an acid that makes already sensitive teeth even more sensitive.

What’s the Best Toothpaste for My Child?

Posted on February 12, 2015March 18, 2021

One of the more common questions we are asked on a regular basis concerns choosing the right toothpaste. There are so many choices that it can be difficult to find one that is best for your child’s oral health. Here are a few quick guidelines to make sure you find one that’s right:

1) Look for the ADA seal.

When trying to find the best toothpaste, it’s important to start with one that is recommended by the American Dental Association. Their seal of approval can be found on the box and tube and ensures that the toothpaste has been objectively evaluated for safety by the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs.

2) Avoid harsh abrasives.

Many toothpastes, especially those advertised as “whitening” often contain abrasives that can damage young tooth enamel.

3) Check for fluoride.

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has been shown to dramatically reduce tooth decay. But you should remember to have children spit out toothpaste and avoid swallowing it. Too much fluoride can cause a condition known as fluorosis. For children too young to spit out toothpaste, you may consider using a fluoride free toothpaste or only a small “pea size” amount.

4) Consider the flavor.

While not a health related issue, you want to make sure that a toothpaste doesn’t taste bad to your child. Many children often find traditional flavors like mint to be “spicy” and they often prefer the more kid friendly options available today.

Since Baby Teeth Are Temporary, Are They Important?

Posted on January 29, 2015March 18, 2021

We often hear people downplay the importance of primary teeth (also called “baby” or “milk” teeth). The front 4 primary teeth generally last until 6-7 years of age, while the back teeth (cuspids and molars) aren’t replaced until age 10-13. People mistakenly believe that since these teeth are temporary, that they do not matter in the long run. This will often lead to the neglect of primary teeth and can cause permanent damage.

In truth, it is very important to care for the health of the primary teeth. Untreated cavities frequently lead to problems which have long term effects on developing permanent teeth. Here are four reasons why caring for primary teeth is so important:

(1) Proper chewing and eating. A cavity free mouth often means that it’s easier to enjoy healthy foods without pain or discomfort. It also means that children are more likely to chew their food completely and are less likely to develop bad eating habits.

(2) Providing space for the permanent teeth. Primary teeth reserve space for the permanent teeth. They help in guiding primary teeth into the correct position.

(3) Permitting normal development of the jaw bones and muscles. Like any muscle, your baby’s face and jaw muscles need exercise to help them develop; healthy primary teeth allow for proper chewing to build these muscles. Without well-developed jaw muscles, your baby’s jawbones may not develop properly.

(4) Proper development of speech. Missing teeth can affect the ability for a child to form words and learn to speak properly. These speech problems can translate into difficulty later in life.

Aside from the reasons listed, there is a very practical reason for taking care of primary teeth: healthy smiles add to an overall attractive appearance which encourages a positive self esteem and good self image.

4 Sure-Fire Tips for a Cavity Free Year

Posted on January 1, 2015March 18, 2021

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one out of every five children in the US has an untreated cavity. More than 51 million school hours are lost every year because of dental problems. However, nearly 100% of cavities are preventable. Want a cavity free year? Following these four simple steps can keep you and your kids on the right path to a healthy mouth:

1. Set a timer (or play music) for two minutes of brushing, twice every day.

Brushing for two minutes, twice each day is basic to staying cavity free. Brushing at the same time each day, as part of your regular routine can help develop a daily habit of oral care. Consider brushing with your children so they can see an example of good oral hygiene and will be motivated to care for their own teeth. Because brushing for a full two minutes can be a challenge for young children, the ADA has created fun videos that are exactly two minutes long. You can find them on the2Min2X website.

2. Keep regular dental visits.

Start the year off right by setting up an appointment and taking care of issues you may have been avoiding. Time or finances can result in missed checkups, but putting off needed exams or dental work often causes problems to become more costly, more time consuming and more painful. Your family should schedule an appointment once every six months for a regular cleaning and check-up.

3. Take advantage of fluoride.

Fluoride is a natural mineral that has been shown to dramatically reduce cavities. You may not realize it, but most of the water coming from faucets in the U.S. is fluoridated. Unfortunately, bottled water usually doesn’t contain fluoride, so kids and adults that exclusively drink bottled water may be missing valuable anti-cavity benefits. Switch to tap water this year. You could save a plastic bottle from the trash and possibly your teeth from a cavity.

4. Teach your kids to floss.

Surprisingly, a survey from Delta Dental revealed that 43 percent of parents said their children’s teeth are never flossed. Additionally, the ADA reports that one in ten US adults neglect flossing as well. Why not start a new habit this year and begin flossing regularly? If your child can tie his or her own shoes, there’s a good chance they may be ready to learn how to floss. Flossing helps to reach the places that a toothbrush simply cannot go and it’s one of the best ways to prevent gum disease.

Cavities are preventable. This could be a banner year for your teeth simply by following these simple steps. Please leave a comment below if you have any questions or give us a call to set up an appointment today!

Seven Healthy Teeth Stocking Stuffer Gift Ideas Your Kids Will Love

Posted on December 18, 2014March 18, 2021

Looking for a few last-minute ideas to fill the stockings you’ve hung with care? Here are ideas for a few items that will get little ones excited about taking care of their teeth this coming year!

A New Toothbrush

Everyone loves a new toothbrush. For the holidays, pick one that will get your kids excited about brushing their teeth. There are character brushes, brushes that light up and even brushes that play music while you clean your teeth! Be sure and choose a soft-bristled brush with the appropriate sized head for smaller mouths.

Fun Dental App

Whether your child has their own mobile device or uses yours, there are a ton of new dental apps that make oral care fun and educate kids about dental topics. From educational games like Tiny Dentistand Monster Mouth, to apps that help kids brush for two minutes like Brush DJ, there’s something for everyone. You can purchase the app and simply put a note or card in your child’s stocking or give a gift card for the iTunes store or Google Play.

A Tooth Timer

If brushing the correct amount of time is difficult for your kids, consider getting a small timer to keep in the bathroom. Brushing for two minutes can seem like a long time. A timer can ensure your kids are brushing long enough and can even become a game!

A Wacky Toothpaste Flavor

There are so many fun toothpaste flavors to choose from. Try giving your kids something silly that you wouldn’t usually pick out. There’s bubblegum flavor, chocolate, and even bacon! Look for theADA seal on whatever you buy.

Sugar-Free Chewing Gum With Xylitol

Did you know that chewing gum can actually be good for your teeth? While not a substitute for brushing, sugar-free gum can help in the production of saliva which washes away trapped food particles. Further, gum containing xylitol has actually been proven to help reduce cavities.

Sports Mouthguard

Unfortunately, a lot of kids are playing sports without adequately protecting their teeth. If you have a child who plays an active sport, consider getting a mouthguard for Christmas. Even if they already have one, a fun new color or style can get kids excited about staying in the habit of wearing it.

Silly Toothbrush Holder

There are a lot of fun toothbrush holders out there. We’ve seen ones shaped like super heroes, animals and even rocket ships. Get rid of the boring mug and replace your child’s toothbrush holder with something fun.

5 Tips for Healthy Holiday Smiles

Posted on December 4, 2014March 18, 2021

A season of holiday cheer doesn’t mean a holiday from your family’s dental health. In fact, the change in your schedule and diet means that it is even more essential to be vigilant in maintaining your beautiful smile. Here are five pointers for a healthy mouth during the holidays:

Get up to date on your dental visits before the year is out.

Don’t put off needed visits until you return from visiting family. It’s always a good idea to plan ahead, get an appointment early and take care of your teeth before the rush and hustle of celebrating. Staying up to date will help prevent dental issues from ruining your time away from home by detecting any underlying issues that need to be treated before your leave. Holidays and vacation times are also very busy time in dental offices, so you want to make sure your appointments are scheduled and taken care of sooner rather than later. And don’t forget flex benefits! Many flex pay health care plans require you to spend any accumulated funds before year end.

Make a dental travel kit.

Protect your toothbrush.

If you’re leaving town for the holidays, you want to make sure that your toothbrush stays covered. Extra handling, luggage and hotel bathrooms provide bacteria extra opportunity to find its way onto your bristles and into your mouth. Several options are available, including covers that are anti-bacterial. A closed cover gives a warm, damp place for bacteria to thrive, so remember to let your toothbrush dry before covering it up.

Watch what you eat.

We are all more likely to indulge in sugary drinks, snacks and desserts during the holidays. We’re also more likely to allow our children to indulge for special occasions. Why not make a conscious decision to eat a bit healthier this year? Instead of just planning your days and family activities around food, look for opportunities for more active fun. You might also decide to pack healthy snacks so that you won’t be tempted to grab a quick treat on the road that may not be good for your teeth.

Keep your routine.

Whatever you decide to eat, don’t forget your regular dental habits. It may be tempting to just go to bed after a long day of family fun, but forgetting your routine could mean no-so-fun dental problems later on. Make brushing and flossing an activity that your family does together. It can be a great opportunity to “de-brief” and discuss the activities of the day or plan for the next.

We wish everyone a great season of love, joy, happiness and healthy smiles!

Four Ways to Say “Thank You” to Your Teeth!

Posted on November 20, 2014March 18, 2021

Your teeth are important! Not only are they the first stage in eating and digestion, but a healthy set of teeth will keep you looking your best. So perhaps it’s a idea good to say “Thank You” to your teeth for being so awesome. Here are a few ways you can show your gratitude.

Hum to your teeth while you brush.

Yes, you read that correctly. Listening to a song while you brush may help you brush your teeth better. Most of us don’t brush long enough, so playing a song that lasts at least two minutes can help you brush for a longer period than you’re used to. This is especially true with children. The 2min2x.com website has great videos and songs that last exactly two minutes and are a great way to encourage longer brushing times.

Be gentle with your teeth.

Not only do most people not brush long enough, but they also brush too hard. If your toothbrush shows signs of early wear and bending bristles, then it’s likely that you’re brushing too hard. Be nice to your teeth and gums by brushing gently with a soft bristled toothbrush.

Give your teeth a drink of water.

One of the easiest, least expensive and most effective ways to care for your teeth is to drink more water. Staying hydrated not only helps your overall health, but water can wash away food trapped in your teeth after meals, it can help balance the acidity of your mouth and reduce the amount of plaque-causing bacteria. Additionally, because bad breath is often caused by having a dry mouth, drinking plenty of water can help your breath smell better too!

Take your teeth to the dentist.

How often should you and your child go to the dentist? Even if you take excellent care of your teeth at home, a regular six month visit to the dentist will help you avoid potential problems and clean areas that are difficult or impossible to get yourself. Preventative care is always the best way to say “Thanks!” to your teeth.

Should you worry about your child’s teeth grinding?

Posted on October 23, 2014March 18, 2021

Occasionally parents will reach out to us because they’ve been alarmed by the sounds their children make while sleeping. It’s not uncommon for children to grind their teeth, especially during sleep. In fact, some estimates put that number close to 33%. Tooth grinding, or bruxism, is most common when baby teeth begin to emerge and permanent teeth come in. And while it generally goes away, there are a few considerations you should be aware of.

What causes bruxism?

We aren’t always 100% sure why children grind their teeth. Oral discomfort as teeth shift and realign may cause much of the temporary bruxism, as well as allergies and other minor illnesses. Bruxism may also be caused by minor changes in inner ear pressure, similar to what’s experienced on an airplane. Ongoing teeth grinding may be more serious and can sometimes be the results of anxiety, stress or fear. While most children stop grinding their teeth over time, it’s often important to look at your child’s overall health as well as the frequency and severity of tooth grinding to determine if intervention is necessary.

When should parents worry about bruxism?

Again, bruxism is extremely common, and most children grow out of the habit. But as with any issue you are concerned with, please always feel free to reach out to us with your questions. The following list of symptoms are signs that your child’s teeth grinding may require additional investigation:

If your child is having trouble sleeping or is waking frequently throughout the night
Jaw pain or soreness
Headaches
Tooth sensitivity or pain not associated with other dental issues
Teeth begin showing signs of wear
Damage to the soft tissues of the mouth
Loud, persistent grinding that doesn’t seem to subside over time

What can parents do to help alleviate minor bruxism?

If your child occasionally grinds his or her teeth at night, and isn’t showing any serious side effects like those mentioned above, you may try the following tips to reduce or eliminate bruxism without the intervention of a dentist:

Work to identify and decrease your child’s stress. Allow your child to talk openly about his or her feelings.
Be sure your child is getting a proper diet
Since dehydration may be linked to bruxism, be sure your child is drinking enough water

Of course, you should always make us aware of any issue involving your child’s teeth. We can help you monitor them for any potential issues. Never hesitate to reach out to us with any questions or concerns you might have.