Prevention
Cavity Infections
Some people tell me that “weak teeth” run in the family. I respond that everyone in the family most likely have an aggressive type of plaque on their teeth. Because cavities are caused by bacteria, they are the result of infection.
Infection with a specific type of bacteria is more likely to lead to a cavity than other types of bacteria. One of the most aggressive bacteria is called Streptococcus mutans. It is related to Strep throat bacteria but grows especially well on teeth.
First Dental Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists recommends the first dental visit to be whenever the first tooth erupts or by the child’s first birthday.
I agree that this works for first children but I think than once parents have been through the practice of taking their infant off the bottle by age one, brushing and flossing daily, watching sweets, and using fluoride suplements appropriately, the following kids can wait until two or even three for their first dental appointment.
Brushing Braces
One of the hardest things to do as an adolescent is to brush your teeth. We give brushing instructions but when you have braces, it becomes much, much, much harder to do a good job.
Brushing teeth and especially brushing around braces requires attention to detail and taking enough time to do it well. These are not traits that teens are famous for.
Toothpaste
Enough parents ask about toothpaste for their kids that it is worth revisiting. See this page for more information on children’s toothpaste. Most of these questions are concerning fluoride in toothpaste. See the article on Fluoride for more information.
Common questions about children and kid’s toothpaste:
- At what age should I start brushing?
As soon as they have teeth use a soft toothbrush with infant toothpaste or a cloth to wipe them clean.
- GreatGood to see everyone. Keep working on Dorian's dad, to get Dorian in. Sad that he would let his teeth go!
- ReviewGreat Grins is a great place and have wonderful employees! Always a pleasure to go in and both my kids are very comfortable when there.
- We love going to the dentist!You are all so great. Very good with kids of all ages. Everyone is friendly and patient.
- Five stars!Very caring staff. Dr. Mark gave me great motivating advice for caring for my teeth. Appreciate the video games in the waiting room, toys and books for young children, coffee and magazines for parents. ~Jared (age 15)
- Bailey's Visit TodayYou guys always do an awesome job. I wouldn't take my sons anywhere else!
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