Shenk Dental Care
Roswell, GA 30075
Archive:
Tags
- oral hygiene (11)
- pregnancy (2)
- periodontal (gum) disease (6)
- oral health (28)
- common symptoms (10)
- teeth whitening (2)
- cosmetic dentistry (18)
- root canal (5)
- diabetes (2)
- snoring and sleep apnea (2)
- smile makeover (12)
- crowns (4)
- orthodontics (1)
- tooth decay (2)
- cambra (1)
- tmd (1)
- tmj (1)
- bad breath (2)
- wedding day smiles (3)
- veneers (4)
- dental implants (3)
- oral piercings (1)
- dental injuries (4)
- mouthguards (3)
- sports dentistry (3)
- oral cancer (2)
- chewing gum (1)
- xylitol (1)
- bridgework (1)
- fillings (2)
- replacing teeth (1)
- dental implant (1)
- missing tooth (1)
- sealants (1)
- pediatric dentistry (2)
- dental health tips (1)
- dental emergencies (2)
- dental crowns (1)
- dentures (1)
- heart disease (1)
- periodontal disease (2)
- gum disease (2)
- celebrity smiles (4)
- dental hygiene (1)
- dental injury (1)
- crown (1)
- tooth colored fillings (1)
- sinus surgery (1)
- thumb sucking (1)
- tooth pain (1)
- toothache (1)
- pediatric care (1)
- tooth wear (1)
- prepless veneers (1)
- laser dentistry (1)
- porcelain veneers (1)
- bleeding gums (1)
- wedding day smile (1)
Categories:
MY BLOG
Posts for tag: pediatric dentistry
One topic we are often asked about is finger or thumb sucking and/or pacifier use — a challenge that most parents or caregivers will likely face with at least one of their children. The first and perhaps most important thing to remember is that it is totally normal for babies and young children to suck their fingers, thumb or a pacifier. It only becomes a problem when it continues as the child ages or if you unnecessarily make it a problem.
For most children, the sucking instinct starts in the womb before birth. This fact is evident, as many expectant mothers are shown their child sucking fingers or a thumb during a mid or late-term sonogram. Once the child is born, the habit may continue because it provides the child with a sense of security. Other research indicates that some babies start sucking habits as a way to make contact with, test and learn about their new world outside the womb. It is interesting to note that most children typically tend to stop finger or thumb sucking habits on their own and without much intervention between the ages of two and four. However, for others it can continue much longer. And that is the scenario that parents and caregivers need to be aware of so that they can monitor sucking habits.
Children who suck their thumbs or a pacifier after the age of two have a higher risk of developing some long term negative effects from the habit. This includes but is not limited to upper jaw development issues and “buck” teeth (upper front teeth that protrude forward out of a natural position towards the lips). For this reason, some researchers feel that children should cease thumb or finger sucking and/or pacifier use by 18 months of age. However, the Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that parents and caregivers encourage children to cease this habit by age three.
If you feel your child is at risk due to his/her age and habits, please contact us today to schedule an appointment for your child. After a thorough exam, we can work with you to create a strategy for helping your child overcome finger, thumb or pacifier habits. To learn more about this topic, continue reading the Dear Doctor magazine article “Thumb Sucking in Children.”
The eruption of your child's first permanent teeth is a milestone in his or her development. As parents, you want to help your child preserve and protect their new permanent teeth so that they can last a lifetime. Dental sealants are one easy, simple, and inexpensive way to protect them from decay.
How do cavities develop?
The back teeth (premolars and molars) are formed with deep grooves on their biting surfaces that we call “pits and fissures.” These crevices are too deep for toothbrush bristles to reach. Bacteria can therefore grow and thrive inside them. The acid produced by these bacteria begins to dissolve the tooth enamel, starting the decay process.
Are new teeth more vulnerable?
Yes, the enamel surface of newly erupted teeth is more permeable and less resistant to tooth decay. As the enamel matures, it becomes more resistant.
How can you prevent decay in these new teeth?
Good oral hygiene habits, nutrition (including low sugar consumption), together with fluoride, sealants, and regular dental visits strengthen the teeth and can dramatically reduce tooth decay.
How does fluoride protect these teeth?
Fluoride makes the enamel surface harder and more impermeable and, therefore, less susceptible to acid attack and decay. Fluoride adds some protection to the deep pits and fissures of the teeth but they are still at high risk because of their shape and they often need further protection.
What are sealants and how do they work?
Sealants are protective coatings placed in the tiny pits and fissures to seal them from the bacteria and acids that promote decay. They actually “seal” the pits and fissures to prevent decay and can be used in the treatment of very early decay by arresting it. Greater use of sealants could reduce the need for subsequent treatment and prolong the time until treatment may become necessary.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to discuss your questions about dental sealants for your children. You can learn more about them by reading the Dear Doctor magazine article “Sealants for Children.”