Dental FAQs

Pediatric Dentistry FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Welcome to Shady Grove Pediatric Dentistry, located near Gaithersburg in Rockville, MD. We understand that parents have many questions about their child's oral health and pediatric dentistry. Our dental FAQ page is designed to address these common inquiries, providing clear and helpful information. Here, the pediatric dentist Gaithersburg parents trust offers answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about child/infant dental health.

1. When should my child first visit a dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months after the first tooth appears. Early visits help establish a dental home and allow the dentist to monitor development and catch potential issues early.

2. What is pediatric dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the oral health of infants, children, and adolescents, including those with special health care needs. Pediatric dentists undergo additional training to handle the unique dental issues and behavioral needs of young patients.

3. How often should my child visit the pediatric dentist?

Children should visit the dentist every six months for regular check-ups and cleanings. These visits are crucial for preventing dental problems and ensuring proper oral health. However, based on your child’s individual needs, Dr. Ball may recommend a different visit schedule.

4. What are the benefits of seeing a pediatric dentist?

Pediatric dentists are specifically trained to treat children's dental needs. They use equipment and have offices that are designed to be child-friendly, reducing anxiety and making dental visits more enjoyable. Pediatric dentists are also trained in managing behavior, helping children feel comfortable and cooperative during dental treatments.

5. How do I care for my baby's teeth?

Begin cleaning their mouth during the first few days after birth by wiping their gums with a clean, moist gauze pad or washcloth. As soon as their first teeth appear, decay can occur. When your child’s first tooth appears, brush gently with a child-size toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice.

6. What should I do if my child has a toothache?

If your child complains of a toothache, rinse their mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between the teeth. If the pain persists, contact our office immediately to schedule an appointment. Do not apply aspirin on the aching tooth or gum tissues.

7. Are thumb sucking and pacifier use harmful for a child's teeth?

Thumb sucking and the use of pacifiers are natural self-soothing behaviors in children. However, if these habits continue for a long period, particularly past the age of three, they may cause problems with the proper growth of the mouth and tooth alignment. Dr. Ball can offer advice on how to wean your child off these habits.

8. How can I prevent cavities?

Good oral hygiene removes the bacteria and leftover food particles that combine to create cavities. For infants, use a wet gauze or clean washcloth to wipe the plaque away. For older children, brush their teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily. Also, ensure your child eats a balanced diet and limits sugar intake, and visit the pediatric dentist regularly.

9. What should I do if my child knocks out a permanent tooth?

If your child knocks out a permanent tooth, find the tooth and rinse it gently in clean water. Do not scrub it or remove any attached tissue fragments. If possible, try to reinsert it in the socket. If that’s not possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and take your child and the glass immediately to see Dr. Ball.

10. What treatments do pediatric dentists provide?

Pediatric dentists like Dr. Ball provide comprehensive oral health care that includes the following:

  • Infant oral health exams, including risk assessment for caries in mother and child and advice about teething
  • Preventive dental care, which includes cleaning and fluoride treatments, as well as nutrition and diet recommendations
  • Habit counseling (for example, pacifier use and thumb sucking)
  • Early assessment and treatment of improper bite and dental crowding (orthodontics)
  • Repairing tooth cavities or defects
  • Care for dental injuries (for example, fractured, displaced, or knocked-out teeth)

Why choose Shady Grove Pediatric Dentistry?

Dr. Ball is the pediatric dentist Gaithersburg parents trust and rely on for comprehensive, compassionate dental care. Our office in Rockville is designed with children in mind, making dental visits a positive experience. Dr. Ball and our team are committed to providing personalized care that addresses each child’s specific needs, helping to foster a lifetime of good oral health.

If you have more questions about children's dentistry or your child’s oral health we didn't cover on this dental FAQ page, please contact us at Shady Grove Pediatric Dentistry. We are here to ensure your child’s dental experience is comfortable, comprehensive, and effective.

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