Preventative Care of Your Child’s Teeth

BRUSHING TIPS: Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft cloth and water. As soon as your child’s teeth erupt, brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush. If they are under the age of 2, use a small “smear” of toothpaste. If they’re 2-5 years old, use a “pea-size” amount of toothpaste. Be sure and use an ADA-accepted fluoride …

Beware of Sports Drinks

Due to the high sugar content and acids in sports drinks, they have erosive potential and the ability to dissolve even fluoride-rich enamel, which can lead to cavities. To minimize dental problems, children should avoid sports drinks and hydrate with water before, during and after sports.  Be sure to talk to your pediatric dentist before using sports drinks. If sports …

When Is The Best Time For Orthodontic Treatment?

Developing malocclusions, or bad bites, can be recognized as early as 2-3 years of age. Often, early steps can be taken to reduce the need for major orthodontic treatment at a later age. Stage I – Early Treatment: This period of treatment encompasses ages 2 to 6 years. At this young age, we are concerned with underdeveloped dental arches, the …

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

Even though they are temporary, your child’s baby teeth are important and are still susceptible to cavities. Tooth decay in infants and toddlers is often referred to as Baby Bottle Tooth Decay or Early Childhood Caries. Children need strong, healthy teeth to chew their food, speak and have a good-looking smile. Their first teeth also help make sure their adult …

Thumb-Sucking And Pacifier Use

Thumbsucking is a natural reflex for children. Sucking on thumbs, fingers, pacifiers or other objects may make babies feel secure and happy and help them learn about their world. Young children may also suck to soothe themselves and help them fall asleep. How Can Thumbsucking Affect My Child’s Teeth? After permanent teeth come in, sucking may cause problems with the proper …

Cavities

Most people have a cavity or two. The good news is that there are several things you can do to prevent cavities. Here you can learn about cavities, what they are, and how you can avoid getting them. Your dental hygienist at Pediatric Dentistry of San Antonio can show you the proper way to brush and floss—two things you can do …

How to Floss Your Teeth

Whether you can feel it or not, food particles get stuck between your teeth and under the gum line. This can cause plaque buildup and tartar and can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Daily flossing helps remove plaque and food particles between teeth and keep gums healthy. Do you have questions about how to floss your teeth? Here are some helpful …

8 Common Concerns a Parent Can Have

BABY BOTTLE TOOTH DECAY You can help prevent your baby from getting cavities or developing what is called Baby Bottle Tooth Decay or Early Childhood Caries, by beginning an oral hygiene routine within the first few days after birth. Start by cleaning your baby’s mouth by wiping the gums with a clean gauze pad. This helps removes plaque that can …