Care Concerns

Infants and Children

The beginning of a child's dental care program is crucial. The foremost concern is establishing a program of preventive dental care. It is also important to get the facts about early childhood caries (also known as baby bottle syndrome), a risk for every child but one that can be prevented. Ask us about thumb, pacifier and bottle habits. We'll provide you with a wealth of information about your child's growth and development.

Adolescents and Young Adults

There are many factors that make the pre-teen and teenage years an important stage for dental care. It is normal that self-esteem and confidence issues may arise and these are directly related to appearance and self-image. Our office takes these issues into consideration and we are extra sensitive to the needs of teenagers. Eating patterns may become slightly irregular and frequent snacking on unhealthy foods often becomes the norm. Drinking carbonated soft drinks regularly can contribute to the erosion of tooth enamel. Soft drinks contain sticky sugars that bacteria in our mouths use as an energy source. They break these carbohydrates down into acids and adhere to tooth surfaces. Using a straw when drinking soda can help keep sugar away from teeth. Remind your child to rinse his or her mouth with water after meals, especially during school, in order to leave their teeth free of sugar and acid.

Emergencies

If your child has an accident, please call our office as soon as possible. We will see your child immediately. If it is an after-hours emergency, an after hours number will be given on the answering machine. The first 60 minutes after an accident are the most critical to treatment of dental trauma. If a permanent tooth is knocked out, gently rinse, but do not scrub the tooth under water. Replace the tooth in the socket if possible. If it is impossible, place the tooth in a glass of milk or clean wet cloth and come to the office immediately. If the tooth is fractured, please bring in any pieces you can find.