If you’ve been searching for “pediatric dentists near me” and came across Brentwood pediatric dentistry, look no further. Your child’s dental health is one of the most important aspects of their health. Finding a Brentwood pediatric dentist is only the first step.
Your child doesn’t know how to take care of their teeth, so it’s up to you and their dentist to guide them. You can help your child keep their teeth clean and healthy, but you have to know what questions to ask.
We made it easy for you to come prepared to your child’s dentist appointment by compiling a list of the most important questions you should be asking your child’s pediatric dentist.
1. How Often Should My Child Visit the Dentist?
It is recommended that all children visit the dentist every 6 months. Scheduling dentist appointments at regular intervals ensure that their pediatric dentist can catch any signs of irregularities like tooth decay or orthodontic problems in time.
Regular appointments get your child used to going to the dentist as well. That way, every visit, you and the dentist have the opportunity to make it a positive experience.
Set a good and positive example for your child by ensuring that you go to the dentist every 6 months too!
2. How Can I Make Sure My Child Enjoys Coming to the Dentist?
A dentist for kids can seem scary if they haven’t had good experiences. But by working together with your pediatric dentist, you and your child will be perfectly fine.
You know your child best, so schedule the appointment for a time during the day when you know they’re well-rested. If it’s the first time, or they’re still getting used to the experience, describe what the doctor will do. Sometimes they may only be scared because they don’t know what to expect!
Your child can also tell when you’re nervous about going to the dentist. To set a positive example, make sure that you don’t come home from your dentist appointments complaining.
Their dentist may also have their own tricks up their sleeve to make the process more enjoyable, so don’t forget to ask!
3. Will You Show My Child How to Brush Their Teeth?
The best pediatric dentist will show your child the proper way to brush their teeth. As children grow up, dental habits will start to stick. Teaching them the proper way to brush their teeth, floss, and protect their oral health early on will help preserve their teeth as they get older.
Your dentist can not only show your child exactly how to brush their teeth but will probably show them spots that they’re missing or need to brush more thoroughly.
4. What Should I Do if My Child Has a Loose Tooth?
The best way to deal with loose teeth is to let them fall out on their own! While your child might find them annoying or play with them constantly, ultimately, the safest way to get rid of baby teeth is to let your child pull them out when they’re ready or let them fall out on their own.
Yanking them out before they’re ready can result in pain, excessive blood, and even serious nerve damage. It’s best to let your child wiggle it gently back and forth until it comes out on its own.
5. What Type of Toothbrush and Toothpaste Should My Child Use?
As your child grows up, you may be wondering what products are safe for them to use and recommended by dentists.
For specific ages like infants and toddlers, always make sure that they are using specific-sized toothbrushes and the right toothpaste. Some kinds of toothpaste are not safe for younger children in case they swallow it.
Ask your child’s dentist what they recommend for your child. They may even provide you with complimentary toothbrushes! If not, the American Dental Association (ADA) curated a list of approved toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwashes, and even mouth guards and gum for you to refer to!
6. What Are Dental Sealants and Can They Benefit My Child?
Dental sealants are used in pediatric dentistry to protect permanent molars from tooth decay. All the small crevices in molars make them most susceptible to cavities and tooth decay. You wouldn’t want your child’s permanent teeth to get cavities, so sealants work to prevent food from getting stuck in those hard-to-reach places.
Sealants are completely pain-free and easy to get. The ADA has even said that sealants reduce children’s chance of getting cavities by up to 80%. Children between the ages of 6 and 11 are best suited for sealants, but ask your dentist if these could be right for your child.
7. What Should My Child Avoid Eating and Drinking?
When consumed over a long period of time, some foods and drinks can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Though, of course, we all know that sugary foods and drinks like candy, desserts, juice, and soda are bad for our child’s teeth, there are several other foods to watch out for.
Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are high in acidity, which can wear down enamel over time. You should also give starchy foods like potatoes, bread, and pasta in moderation. The starch turns into sugar in your mouth and can be just as bad as candy if left sitting there.
Even ice is bad for your child’s teeth because the crunching can damage them, so try not to let them get into that habit. Ask your child’s dentist about other common foods you should be wary of.
Ask Your Child’s Pediatric Dentist These Crucial Questions
You and your pediatric dentist are on the same team. You both want your child to have strong, healthy teeth!
Take care of your child and their teeth by scheduling regular appointments with Brentwood pediatric dentistry. Proper tooth care starts while they’re young, so teach them correctly by bringing them to a dentist specializing in children’s oral health!