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Here are a list of questions related to children's dentistry. Just click on a question to see the answer. Click here to return to list of Question & Answer topics. What are decayed (Baby) erupting teeth (bottle caries)? What about Painless Dentistry? What can be done to prevent tooth decay? Why should you wear a mouthguard? How can you reduce tooth decay? What about Painless Dentistry? What are decayed (Baby)
erupting teeth (bottle caries)? Children who have erupted teeth or are past the age to be weaned are highly susceptible to rotted front teeth when being put to bed with a bottle containing milk, juice or other sugar-containing liquids. There is decreased salivary flow during sleep and clearance of the liquid from the teeth is slowed. The liquid pools around the upper front teeth and creates an excellent environment to promote the growth of decay-causing bacteria. Removing the bottle before the first tooth appears and wiping the child's gums and teeth with a soft cloth before being put to bed can help prevent decay. At 18 months of age, parents should be encouraged to ask their dentist to examine their child and recommend home care. What about Painless Dentistry? What
can be done to prevent tooth decay? To prevent decay, a plastic-like coating called a sealant should be painted on the chewing surfaces of all the back teeth. Studies have shown that sealants can reduce tooth decay by as much as 90% to 100%. The American Dental Association recommends sealants be placed as soon as the first adult back teeth come in at age 6 or 7. Sealants should continue to be used as each adult back tooth comes into the mouth. All back teeth that need to be sealed are present by age 13. Sealant application is simple, fast, and painless. Please call our office with any questions you may have about the benefits using a sealant in preventing dental decay. Why should you wear a
mouthguard? Do: Wear a mouthguard at all times when playing sports. Wear a mouthguard custom-fitted by your dentist, especially if you wear bridges or braces. Don't: Wear removable appliances like retainers when playing sports. There are two types of mouthguards: How can you reduce tooth
decay? When supplements are needed, the administration of fluoride supplements should begin shortly after birth and continue through the time of eruption of the second permanent molars (approx. 12 years of age). Regular dental check-ups should begin no later than 18 months of age. If you have any questions or need more information, don't hesitate to call.
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