Our philosophy on dentistry for kids
It is our number one goal to make dentistry fun for kids. I have had many patients tell me how scared they were of their dentist when they were young because the dentist was either not friendly or caused them pain. With that in mind, I try to:
1. Communicate with each child in a way that is age appropriate so they understand.
2. Explain what we are going to do and ask the younger child to be my “big helper”.
3. If there is going to be discomfort or pain, I am honest and tell the child ahead of time.
I believe that children are OK with “ouchies” as young kids get hurt all the time. What kids are not OK with is an “ouchie” without warning or being told, “this won’t hurt!” when it does...because that means I’m lying to them, which makes me untrustworthy.
Importance of baby teeth
Starting your child off with good dental habits is important so your child learns to keep those habits forever. It is important to take care of even “baby” teeth as they are essential in helping your child speak clearly and chew food. Baby teeth also hold space so permanent teeth can grow in straight.
How to care for your child's teeth
Even at birth, you need to start caring for your child’s gums. Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, wet cloth after feedings. As soon as baby teeth appear, begin cleaning them with a soft, child-sized toothbrush daily. Up until the age of 4, it is recommended to use a small, pea-sized dab of children’s fluoride toothpaste and be sure your child does not swallow too much of it.
CLICK HERE to watch a Caesy video on pediatrics.
Fluoride
Fluoride helps strengthen teeth and prevents tooth decay. If the water where you live does not have enough fluoride, talk to your physician or Dr. Dahm about supplements for your child. When mixing formula for infants, be sure to use a fluoridated water, which can be found at most grocery stores.
Your child’s first trip to the dentist
Dr. Dahm recommends that a child have their first formal dental exam by age 3. Most children at this age are able to sit in the dental chair and allow a good examination, dental cleaning and also have a fun time at our office. We are willing to provide examinations for children of any age, however if no teeth are present, it is not necessary. Please contact us if you have any concerns regarding your young child’s teeth and we will schedule an exam.
A healthy diet
A healthy diet leads to healthy teeth. Sweet foods such as candy, starchy foods such as crackers, and sticky foods such as raisins stay in the mouth longer, which can cause tooth decay. Fruits and vegetables make for better snacks in between meals and they are better for your child's teeth.
The greatest tooth decay cause in our culture is frequent sweet beverages. These drinks include: milk, fruit juice, juicy juice, soda and sports drinks. Sweet drinks are best consumed at mealtime or snacktime. They should not be sipped over time. We were designed to drink water, not sugared, acidified, food colored, carbonated, chemical laden drinks that lead to digestive problems, obesity, hyperactivity and tooth decay.
Thumb sucking
It is common for infants to suck their thumbs, fingers or a pacifier. These habits soothe an infant, but after a year of age cause damaging growth alteration of the upper and lower jaw bones, which often require orthodontic treatment and even jaw surgery to correct. They encourage an incorrect swallowing pattern which further aggravates facial growth and bite problems. Although most psychologists recommend allowing your child to continue such habits saying no harm is done, they are concerned with your child's self-esteem, not the proper development of your child's face, swallowing pattern, jaw bones and airway. It is my recommendation to discourage finger sucking in your infant as soon as they begin for the following reasons: First, others love to touch your infants hands, transferring bacteria and virus', which promptly go in their mouth giving you a sick baby. Second, the sooner you teach your baby to not put a finger or toe in their mouth the less nagging you will do at age 4 and above, which will definitely place a thorn in your relationship with your child. Third, children who suck fingers are embarrassed about their problem when they are around peers, which makes them feel "different" from the other children. Fourth, why encourage damaging growth in your child's face that will require expensive treatment during adolescence? Pacifiers and baby bottles should be discontinued by age 12 months. This allows the mature swallowing mechanism to develop while encouraging the infantile sucking type swallow to disappear naturally, rather than be maintained into childhood and beyond.
Up until age 3, combating the finger habit is up to you, the parent. We are here for any help or advice you may need. After age 3, Dr. Jeff will have a talk with your child to see if they are ready to stop a finger or pacifier habit. If they are ready to give up the habit we will have good success. If not, the most helpful reminder for your child is a product called "Mavala Stop!" It is a clear fingernail polish with a very bitter taste. Remember, this won't stop finger sucking, it will just remind your child when they put a finger in their mouth without thinking about it. There was a finger habit book called "My Thumb and I" which is excellent for ages 5+ which may be found used on the internet.
Do we discourage finger habits? YOU BET!
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