Kids, Sports, and Dental Injuries

Kids, Sports, and Dental Injuries

Kids and sports sound like a formula for disaster waiting to happen. Children are natural thrill-seekers and often don’t understand the dangers that can arise when participating in sports.

In a particular study, researchers observed 62% of the 1,020 players studied sustained dental injuries from an unorganized sport. Moreover, 59.6% of these dental injury cases were from children aged seven to 12.

Interestingly, less than half of the studied participants wore mouthguards, and only two sustained dental injuries, indicating their effectiveness in protecting against dental injuries.

What Are Hazardous Sports and Activities for Your Child’s Teeth?

Sports are vital to helping children develop a strong body and disciplined mind. However, if your child is participating in any of the following activities, you should consider taking extra precautions to protect their teeth:

● Martial arts and boxing: Fighting arts are excellent for teaching your children discipline and self-control. However, always ensure your child wears protective gear during sparring matches.

● Stick or bat games: Athletic games like lacrosse, hockey, and baseball require players to run around with sticks in their hands. This increases the chances of accidental contact between sticks or bats and your child’s face.

● Football: American football is popular among children and can be incredibly fun. However, it’s also one of the most dangerous sports in terms of dental injuries. Sometimes, players may not even realize they’ve been hit in the mouth until after the game has ended.

● Ball games: Basketball is a popular competitive and close-contact game requiring players to move quickly and make quick decisions. This increases the chances of accidental contact with another player’s body or head, leading to dental injuries.

What Sort of Prevention or Safety Can Be Used To Prevent Dental Injury?

As a parent, you shouldn’t keep your child from pursuing their passion and keep them participating in the sport they love. The key is to give them ample protection to prevent unwanted accidents. Here are some ways you can protect your child from sports-related dental injuries.

● Helmets: One of the obvious ways to keep your child’s face from injury is to have them wear a helmet. Helmets are necessary for sports like hockey and baseball and can also be used in other risky sports, such as snowboarding and skiing.

● Mouthguards: Mouthguards are incredibly effective in reducing the chances of dental injuries. Even professional competitive players use them to prevent dental and mouth trauma. The key to choosing the right mouthguard is to ensure it’s a perfect fit.

● Rules and Risks: The first two points refer to safety equipment to reduce the likelihood of dental injuries in sports. However, it’s vital to only allow your children to participate in regulated sports and teach them about good sportsmanship and the risks associated with different activities.

Are There Different Types of Mouthguards?

Mouthguards are available in various forms and styles. There are three primary types of mouthguards:

● Stock: Stock mouthguards are often called “ready-made” because they are pre-shaped and don’t require any customization. This offers the least protection because they don’t fit your child’s mouth perfectly.

● Mouth-formed: These mouthguards are also called boil-and-bite mouthguards because of the slight customization they offer. The dentist will boil a plastic mouthguard and have the patient bite and suck on it to fit their teeth. Boil-and-bite mouthguards provide a false sense of security, as the fit loosens over time and is easily damaged by biting.

● Customized: The best type of mouthguard is a custom-made one. These mouthguards are created with exact molds of the patient’s teeth and are designed to provide maximum protection and durability.

What Should You Do if Your Child Experiences a Dental Injury?

Accidents happen, and not all injuries can be prevented. So what should you do if your child experiences a mouth or dental injury?

Call a pediatric dentist ASAP: If your child has suffered a dental injury, you should immediately call a pediatric dentist. This will help prevent further damage and ensure prompt medical attention is given to the injury.

Apply pressure to the area: For an immediate remedy, apply pressure to the site and have your child rinse their mouth with warm salt water. This helps reduce swelling, bleeding, and discomfort.

Offer an ice pack: Cold helps reduce swelling and pain, so it’s vital to offer an ice pack or an ice pop to help manage the pain.
Give pain reliever for unbearable pain: If the pain is too much for your child, you can give them over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Prevent Further Dental Injury With the Right Dental Care

As a parent, we must help our children explore the world and all its possibilities. However, this often means exposing them to pain and risks. That said, there are ways to reduce the chances of dental injuries in sports and ensure your children enjoy their sports with minimal risks.

Mouthguards are an easy tool for you to help protect your children’s teeth and facial structure from the dangers of kids’ sports. Get your child set up with protection today at Bay Area Kids Dentist. The board-certified pediatric dentists at Bay Area Kids Dentist are ready to provide your kids with a positive, fun and educated dental experience. Contact us today for a consultation or appointment.

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Summer Dental Health for Your Kids

Summer Dental Health for Your Kids

We’re only a few months away from summertime, and you know what that means… a lot of sleepovers, camping, and vacation plans. It’s one of the times of the year when children can be children and enjoy more time with friends and family.

Whether that’s consuming bowls full of sweets during sleepovers, eating junk food during movie nights, or tasting new desserts on vacation, your kids have a higher chance of slipping when it comes to dental hygiene. That’s why it’s important to prioritize their dental health during the few short months of summer.

Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups During Summer

Based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cavities are one of the top chronic diseases children develop in the United States. What’s more, the risk of getting cavities increases during the summer months since kids can easily forget their routines.

Without school structures during their break, taking care of oral health takes a back seat, increasing the potential of developing cavities.

We can’t stress enough how important it is to stay on top of your child’s oral health and schedule those regular dental visits – even in the summer.

Summer Is the Best Time for a Dentist Appointment

As busy parents, it may be easy to forget or to put off your child’s dental check-ups throughout the year. That’s why, summer is the best time for a pediatric dentist appointment.

Without the worry of missing classes or causing stress on your child, the summer break gives you the perfect convenience and opportunity to book routine dental appointments. During this time, children have a more flexible schedule, so you don’t need to wait until the weekend comes around to go to the dentist. You can go during the weekday to accomplish this task.

And, with all this extra time on their hands, you can focus on enhancing your child’s nightly oral routine to keep their teeth in the best condition possible.

Tips To Maintain Healthy Teeth During the Summer

If you want further assistance in maintaining your kids’ teeth during the summer, here are some expert tips to help you out.

Stay on Top of Your Nightly Routine

As we’ve mentioned before, summer vacation can easily disrupt bedtime routines. But no matter how action-packed your vacation gets, it’s crucial to stay on top of your nightly routine and continue to practice proper oral hygiene.

We understand how hard it can be to resist the temptation of allowing your kids to skip flossing or brushing their teeth — especially when everyone is tired from a full day of activities. To combat this, set an alarm on your phone for dental care, supervise your children during those times, and help them out if they need it.

Always Bring an Overnight Dental Kit

You never know what can happen in the summer. It’s best to always stay prepared and pack a simple overnight dental kit wherever you go.

When you leave your kids for a sleepover, make sure to check if they have their dental kits packed before dropping them off. In case they forget, you can save the day with your emergency overnight dental kit, complete with floss, toothpaste, and a toothbrush.

Plan for Dental Emergencies

The endless adventures during summer only mean one thing: more time outside. While this can be fun and exciting, it can also open doors for injuries like cracked teeth while riding a bike, playing sports, or doing daring activities.

These accidents are impossible to anticipate. What you can do instead is plan ahead. In case they have dental emergencies, know who to call and which clinic to go to.

Visit Board-Certified Pediatric Dentists at Bay Area Kids Dentist

Bay Area Kids Dentist offers high-quality, comprehensive pediatric dental care. All of our dentists are board-certified pediatric dentists and love what they do.

Our goal is to provide a fun, positive, and comfortable dental experience for all kids. Rest assured that when you visit our dental clinics, you and your kids will leave with a smile on your face.

Schedule an appointment with us this summer before the back-to-school rush begins!

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String Together a Great Toothcare Routine With Flossing

String Together a Great Toothcare Routine With Flossing

Want to ensure a good dental routine for your kids? Make sure to include flossing.

You may have several questions about this, like how early they should start flossing, how to properly floss, and how you can motivate the kids to floss. Check out the article below to help take care of your child’s dental health.

When Should Kids Start Flossing?

Once your child’s teeth begin to fit closely together, you should help them start flossing. This usually happens when they’re two to six years old. Once they reach the age of 10, they’ll more likely be able to floss by themselves.

What Is the Proper Way To Floss?

You can teach your child to floss using the loop method or the spool method. With the loop or circle method, you’ll use around an 18-inch piece of floss and tie it to form a circle. Except for your thumb, insert your fingers into the loop. Afterward, let your index finger guide the floss along and between the lower teeth. Then, let your thumbs push the floss through the upper teeth. Cover the gum line with a C motion to remove any food particles or bacteria.

For the spool or finger wrap method, use a piece of floss that’s 18 to 20 inches long. Slowly wrap the floss string’s ends around your middle fingers. Guide the floss up, down, and between the teeth using your thumb and index fingers. Make the C motion too when going below the gum line to get rid of any plaque and bacteria.

How Can You Get Your Kids Interested in Flossing?

First, you should be a good role model to your child. Floss daily with them for two to three minutes. Seeing you do it should encourage them to want to join in.

Allow your child to choose their preferred floss type. They can use dental floss picks if they’re having a hard time with string floss. They’ll love the different flavors and colors. Or to make things a bit more high tech, they can choose a water flosser.

Remind your child to floss gently, so they won’t hurt their gums or get infections. One great way to motivate them to floss is to play or sing their favorite song while you floss together. You can also make their dental routine more exciting by letting them claim prizes depending on the number of dental hygiene stickers they’ve collected.

What New Tools Are Available for Flossing To Make It Easier?

Your kids can take advantage of new tools to make flossing easier and more fun for them. For example, floss picks let them floss using just one hand. There’s no need to wrap it around the fingers. Another tool is a water flosser, which utilizes a strong stream of water rather than dental floss to clean the teeth. It’s perfect for kids with poor dexterity or braces. You can also use an interdental brush that has thin bristles for cleaning in between the teeth.

What Happens if You Don’t Floss?

If a flossing routine is not adopted, plaque can easily build up between your child’s gums and teeth. This can result in cavities and gingivitis or gum disease. The buildup of bacteria can also cause bad breath. That’s why you should guide them to incorporate flossing into their dental routine.

Final Thoughts

Flossing indeed plays a vital role in protecting your kid’s dental health. Early and regular visits to a pediatric dentist should also be prioritized. At Bay Area Kids Dentist, our board-certified pediatric dentists have the skills, tools, and experience to help your child follow a dental care routine that includes regular and proper flossing. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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What’s the Best Way To Find a Pediatric Dentist in My Area?

What’s the Best Way To Find a Pediatric Dentist in My Area?

If you’re searching for the perfect pediatric dentist in your area to care for your children’s oral health, it can be a daunting task — there are so many different factors to consider, and making sure that you find the right one is essential.

The good news is that finding a qualified, experienced pediatric dentist in your area doesn’t have to be overly complicated or time-consuming. To ensure your children receive the best dental care possible, let’s delve into factors to consider when searching for a pediatric dentist and some tips to help you.

4 Factors To Consider When Finding a Pediatric Dentist in Your Area

You may wonder, “Is there a pediatric dentist near me that I can trust with my children’s dental care?” The answer is absolutely! To make the search easier, here are four factors to help you identify pediatric dentists in your area.

1. References

When looking for a dentist for your children, it’s crucial to get reliable information. The best way to do this is to ask family members, friends, neighbors and colleagues in the area who they recommend. This will give you an idea of which pediatric dentists are most trusted and respected by those who know them well.

Additionally, if you already have an adult dentist you trust, they can also provide some helpful recommendations. Researching your options and gathering references can help ensure that your children receive the best care from a qualified professional.

2. Location

Finding a dentist within easy driving distance of your residence is vital when searching for a new dentist. If you find one who is too far away, it may be difficult to fit regular appointments into your schedule or get there in an emergency.

Making a list of all available pediatric dentists in your area and ruling out practices that are too far away can help narrow down your options. Additionally, talk with family, friends, and coworkers to discover what experiences they have had with certain dentists and how it was getting to their offices in a timely fashion.

Once you have thoroughly explored where each office is located in relation to you, you can decide on the most convenient dentist.

3. Certifications

You may have been wondering, “Is there an experienced and accredited pediatric dentist in my area?”

Board certification is a voluntary process that dentists must complete to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and experience in the field.

To become board-certified, dentists must meet specific educational requirements and pass a written exam. This means that if you select a dentist who is board certified, you can rest assured knowing they have been rigorously tested and can provide high-quality dental care.

Further, you can look for pediatric dentist offices with additional certifications, such as those from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. A dentist’s certifications and credentials are important factors when searching for a dentist in your area.

4. Meet and Greet

Meeting prospective pediatric dentist offices can be a great way to learn more about the services offered and the staff and ensure they will address your child’s needs appropriately.

While asking questions about fees, procedures, and safety protocols is essential before any commitment is made, face-to-face communication regarding your family’s unique concerns can help ensure you find the best fit for your child. This ensures that a reliable comfort level has been established between all parties and can provide helpful insight into a more informed decision when selecting the right pediatric dentist’s office.

Closing Thoughts

For kids’ dental care that you can trust, look no further than Bay Area Kids Dentist! Our board-certified pediatric dentists provide expert care for your children.

Whether they need routine cleanings, fillings, sealants, or emergency services, our experienced team is committed to providing high-quality dental care in a warm and inviting environment.

We value open communication with our patients and their families and are dedicated to creating a trusting relationship that lasts for years to come. Contact us today to book a consultation and empower the dental health of your little ones!

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Preventing Tooth Decay With Regular Checkups

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Preventing Tooth Decay With Regular Checkups

Your schedule has been busy for weeks, taking your kids to activities and managing different obligations. After packed days and nights, you finally get a slower day and help the kids with their bedtime routine. But when you check their teeth after brushing, you notice some discoloration. That’s when you remember one place you haven’t been in a while — the dentist.

Tooth decay is a serious issue affecting your child’s overall health and well-being. It’s something every parent dreads, and seeing it for the first time can be alarming. But the good news is that it is preventable, and it starts with regular dental checkups. How knowledgeable are you about tooth decay and tooth decay prevention?

What Is Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay, as defined by WebMD, is the destruction of tooth enamel and the dentin layer. The first signs of tooth decay include tooth sensitivity and discoloration. Your child may feel discomfort when consuming hot or cold food and beverages. The tooth may already be decaying if you also see white to brownish discoloration on the tooth surfaces. Discoloration can also be black if tooth decay has already reached its advanced stages.

What Causes Tooth Decay?

There’s a lot going on in our mouths all the time. We breathe, talk, eat, drink, and more. And while adults may be able to handle the grind, kids may not. In most cases, it is a result of poor oral hygiene and the presence of plaque.

Plaque is a combination of bacteria, food debris, saliva, and acids. It sticks to tooth surfaces and gums and starts wearing off tooth enamel. It leads to tooth decay and cavities as acid attacks tooth enamel.

People who don’t have enough saliva are at risk of tooth decay. It could be because of medicines, diseases, or treatments. Kids who don’t get enough fluoride through toothpaste and toothbrushing are also at risk. Babies and toddlers who drink from bottles and have their teeth frequently exposed to sugary liquids can also be prime candidates for tooth decay.

What Does Tooth Decay Cause?

When left untreated, tooth decay can cause toothaches and lead to cavities and tooth loss. Toothaches are a common symptom and can occur when tooth enamel wears off. It’s also the first sign of tooth infection, which can lead to tooth loss and even infection of other teeth.

Tooth decay can also lead to cavities. Cavities are holes in the tooth and may need a tooth extraction to prevent further damage. Sometimes, a root canal or other treatments may be better solutions.

How Can You Prevent Tooth Decay?

Yes, all these tooth decay stories sound scary, but it’s possible to keep your kids away from the nightmare. As parents and guardians, you don’t want them to feel pain or lose their teeth. To prevent tooth decay, you can do the following with your kids:

Regular Dental Visits

It’s very important to take your kids for regular checkups and teeth cleaning. Dentists thoroughly examine tooth surfaces and can detect tooth decay early on. They can also give you the best advice for tooth decay prevention and treatment.

Get Sealants

It’s also recommended to have kids get tooth sealants. These are thin coatings that help protect tooth enamel from tooth decay. They can also prevent tooth infection and tooth loss. Your dentist can advise if tooth sealants are suitable for your kid.

Have Proper Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene means brushing your teeth and flossing at least twice a day. Brushing helps remove tooth plaque and bacteria from tooth surfaces and gums. And don’t forget to use toothpaste with fluoride, which helps strengthen tooth enamel!

Have a Healthy Diet

Have a healthy diet. Avoid sugary and starchy food that can harm tooth enamel and increase decay risk. Instead of giving flavored or sugary drinks, use water for hydration. Give your kids plenty of fruits and vegetables to keep their tooth enamel strong.

Be Your Kids’ Example

Your kids look up to you, so be a good example of tooth decay prevention. Moreover, “regular” dental visits mean every six months, though some people may need to visit more often. When it’s time to see the dentist, whether during the Halloween season or the holidays, make sure to book your appointment!

No Tooth Decay With Bay Area Kids Dentist

Making kids love brushing their teeth and going on dental visits can be challenging, so what can you do as a parent? Having a board-certified pediatric dentist you trust can make tooth decay prevention so much easier. At Bay Area Kids Dentist, we make tooth decay prevention exciting and enjoyable!

Our dentists help kids have a super smile for life. We guide children and parents in maintaining healthy teeth and gums and offer services necessary for dental concerns. If it’s time for checkups, preventive sealants, or dietary advice, Bay Area Kids Dentist is here!

Let’s keep tooth decay at bay together. Book an appointment now.it

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How Can I Prevent Cavities for My Preschooler?

How Can I Prevent Cavities for My Preschooler?

Does your child frequently complain about tooth pain? As parents, we want to do everything we can to protect our children’s health, including their teeth. Dental pain, possibly from tooth decay, can cause discomfort and pain to any child.

The best way to deal with this issue is to take step to prevent tooth decay altogether by visiting a pediatric dentist regularly and encouraging good dental hygiene practices. By doing so, your child can avoid dental pain from tooth decay and have better oral health.

What Is Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay is when tooth enamel is destroyed because of bacteria. The bacteria in the mouth makes a sticky substance called plaque. This plaque can eat away at a tooth’s enamel, leading to holes in the teeth. It may also cause tooth sensitivity and even tooth loss if left untreated.

Poor oral hygiene, a diet high in sugary foods, and not brushing daily with fluoride toothpaste can all raise a child’s risk for cavities. If your child consumes sugary foods regularly, it can lead to “acid attacks,” resulting in a hole or cavity. Cavities can develop if the enamel is weak, as it is no longer strong enough to protect the teeth against acids and bacteria.

Symptoms of Tooth Decay

It’s crucial to be aware of the signs and symptoms of tooth decay, so we can take steps to prevent it and treat it quickly. Common symptoms of tooth decay include:

Discoloration of the tooth enamel
Pain when eating or drinking something hot or cold
Sharp pain when biting down
Increased sensitivity to sugary or acidic drinks

As parents of young kids, it’s essential to understand the risks and treatments of tooth decay. If you see any of these signs, take your child for a dental checkup as soon as possible.

How To Treat Tooth Decay for Preschoolers

To treat tooth decay in our children, the dentist may recommend various treatments, including fluoride treatments, fillings, sealants, root canals, and even tooth extraction. Depending on the severity of the decay, the dentist may also suggest lifestyle changes such as reducing sugar intake and increasing oral hygiene habits.

It’s important to talk to your pediatric dentist about the best course of treatment for your child and any risks associated with the treatment. With the proper care and attention, we can ensure our children’s teeth are healthy and their smiles stay bright for years.

How To Prevent Tooth Decay for Preschoolers

To prevent tooth decay in our children, we can help them develop good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly. We should also monitor and possibly limit their consumption of sugary and acidic food and drink and ensure they get enough fluoride.

In addition to these preventative measures, sealants can also be applied to the molars and premolars of children to help protect their teeth from decay. Sealants are a thin plastic coating applied to the tooth’s chewing surfaces, providing a barrier against bacteria and plaque that can lead to cavities. Sealants are a safe and cost-effective way to protect children’s teeth and should be considered as part of any preventative dental care plan.

When Should a Child Start Seeing a Dentist Regularly?

Now that you know how to treat and prevent tooth decay, you should also be aware of when your child should begin visiting a kid’s dentist. When a child’s first tooth appears, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that they see a pediatric dentist within six months.

Parents can find more information on tooth decay by speaking to a pediatric dentist. With the right knowledge and preventative measures, we can protect our children’s teeth from decay and help them maintain a healthy smile.

Take Steps To Protect Your Child’s Smile

The right care and attention can ensure our children’s teeth are healthy and their smiles stay bright for years. To ensure your child’s teeth stay healthy, visit the board certified pediatric dentists at Bay Area Kids Dentist. With our expertise and knowledge of pediatric dentistry, we can help you and your child navigate the preventative and treatment options available.

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Thumb Sucking and Pacifiers: How To Break the Habit

Thumb Sucking and Pacifiers: How To Break the Habit

Thumb sucking is not uncommon for infants. In fact, about 90% of newborns display various forms of this habit just two hours after birth. Using a pacifier is also very common and generally harmless for babies.

But at what age do these practices become troublesome?

Are they bad for dental care?

Do they have long-term effects?

We aim to answer these questions. Hint: They won’t do older kids any favors.

Ultimately, we want to help your child break the habit. Read on to discover just how to do it.

Why Do Infants Start Thumb Sucking or Using a Pacifier?

It may come as a shock to you, but babies develop natural sucking reflexes — sometimes even before birth. For this reason, thumb sucking and using a pacifier are habits easily developed. Below are some of the reasons why they do it.

Eating necessity: Newborn babies eat by sucking. Hooray if your child has already figured it out!
Calming mechanism: Sometimes, even newly-fed babies still need to suck more. Their non-nutritive sucking soothes them.
Availability: There’s another reason why babies suck their little thumbs. They’re always right within reach!

What Does Thumb Sucking or Using a Pacifier Do to Mouth and Teeth Formation?

Thumb sucking and pacifier sucking are not ideal for children’s teeth. A pediatric dentist can further explain some of the outcomes, like:

Jaw misalignment: Pacifiers come in all shapes and forms, some of which are unnaturally large for a child’s mouth. These scenarios push teeth out of alignment since the pressure from the cheek, lips, and tongue can create an open bite or posterior crossbite.
Slanting teeth: Pressure from a prolonged sucking habit pushes teeth out of alignment. The front teeth may appear flared out. Fortunately, a children’s dentist can help address this symptom.

How Long Can a Child Safely Thumb Suck or Use a Pacifier?

Don’t be alarmed if a newborn or infant enjoys thumb sucking or using a pacifier. After all, these habits are natural coping mechanisms for them.

The natural sucking urge typically drops when a child turns six months. However, some kids might still find comfort in these habits well past this age.

As a gauge, many professionals and even the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) agree that thumb sucking and pacifier use should be okay until about age three. After this timeframe, it’s best to help kids beat these habits.

How To Break the Habit

Remember, every child is different. There’s really no one-size-fits-all solution in helping them say goodbye to thumb sucking or pacifiers. However, here are some of the most popular methods parents and guardians use:

Ignore them: More often than not, children will naturally stop sucking on their thumbs and pacifiers. There’s no need to use harsh words or punishments to get rid of these habits.
Praise and reward: When your child doesn’t suck on their thumbs or pacifiers, applaud them for it. Treats like hugs, kisses, and high-fives are also most welcome.
Keep them busy: Sometimes, children use sucking to deal with boredom. When this happens, distract them with fun activities.

How Your Pediatric Dentist Can Help

Apart from family members, friends, and other loved ones, one more person can help you talk to your kids about thumb sucking and pacifiers: your children’s dentist. Regular visits can make all the difference in your efforts.

Reliable dental specialists can teach you and your child how to address changes to the teeth and jaw often associated with these habits. They are the ideal partner in such endeavors because they can give you tips and tricks for stopping the behaviors. Ultimately, the goal is to avoid expensive treatments in the future.

Usually, these strategies work well on their own. However, if necessary, a pediatric dentist can use an oral appliance to break these practices within a couple of months.

Book an Appointment With Bay Area Kids Dentist Today

If your child still sucks on their thumbs and pacifiers past age three, it’s time to double your efforts to help them beat such habits. After all, they may lead to dental problems like jaw misalignment and slanting teeth. If left untreated, these habits may require costly treatments.

Let the experts at Bay Area Kids Dentist help. All our dentists are board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD). We know how to make dental visits comfortable and fun for kids of all ages. Plus, our dental assistants have a commitment to excellence and a warm demeanor.

We would like to help you and your child beat thumb sucking and pacifiers for good! Book an appointment with one of our super dentists now.

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The Basics of Choosing the Right Pediatric Dentist for Your Kids

The Basics of Choosing the Right Pediatric Dentist for Your Kids

Many children, both in their early years and later in life, suffer from dental cavities and complications due to dental problems. According to studies, dental cavities affect roughly 42% of children between the ages of 2 and 11 and a similar number of children between the ages of 6 and 19 who have permanent teeth.

For your child’s dental health, it’s important to choose the right dentist. As a parent, you are aware of the significance of maintaining your child’s oral health. Since children are more likely than adults to experience cavities and other dental problems, it is important to develop a relationship with a reliable and trustworthy pediatric dentist to take care of your child’s dental needs.

But how do you choose the best pediatric dentist for your child? We review the basics of what you should look for when choosing a pediatric dentist for your child.

Pediatric Dentists Vs. Family Dentists

Understanding what a pediatric dentist is and how one differs from the standard family dentist will help you find the best pediatric dentist for your child.

Pediatric dentists and general dentists both address conditions related to dental health, but there are several ways in which they differ. The obvious difference is that a pediatric dentist specializes in treating the dental health of children. General dentists often treat and concentrate solely on adult teeth and adult dental health conditions. While a pediatric dentist, also known as a kids dentist, specializes in addressing children’s teeth, baby teeth, tooth care/habits, and overall dental conditions of children. They are trained and experienced, with the proper tools and knowledge to specifically address children’s dental health. You should choose a pediatric dentist for your child and not a family dentist.

What are some things you can do before choosing a pediatric dentist for your child?

Ask Friends or Talk to Other Parents

One excellent way to find out about fantastic pediatric dentists is by asking friends or speaking with other parents for a recommendation. Every parent wants to give their kid the best, thus a lot of parents may already have a reliable pediatric dentist in mind.

You can ask other parents that you trust where they take their child for dental care and pay attention to what they have to say about the service and the dentist. This can assist you in reducing your options, avoiding those with negative reviews from reliable sources, and having a list of solid recommendations that you may further investigate.

Check Qualifications

When choosing a kids dentist for your child, it is crucial to take their areas of specialization into account. Compared to general or family dentists, pediatric dentists are dental experts who have completed additional years of school and have additional training and experience treating children. Pediatric dentists complete a two-year residency program following dental school.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, pediatric dentists are trained in advanced diagnostic and surgical techniques, child psychology and clinical management, oral pathology, child-related pharmacology, radiology, child development, management of oral/facial trauma, care for patients with special needs, conscious sedation, and general anesthesia. Therefore, your options should only include certified pediatric dentists and not regular dentists. Make sure the pediatric dentists you’re looking at have relevant qualifications and credentials.

Check Reviews

Many companies, including dental offices, let customers post honest reviews on their websites, social pages, and reputable websites like Google. This gives you important knowledge about how the dentist and their staff have handled other patients and what other patients liked and disliked about their visit. If the reviews are largely positive, then it can be a great indicator that it is an excellent dentist for your child.

Last but not least, reading reviews will enable you to observe how the dentist addresses and responds to negative reviews. This will allow you to perceive an office’s genuine approach to all patients, not just those with positive feedback.

Visit the Office and Schedule a Consultation

Scheduling a consultation can assist you in figuring out whether your children feel at ease with that particular dentist and observing how the staff interacts with you and your child. Bring your child with you to meet the most favorable dentists on your list. During the initial consultation, pay attention to how the dentist spends time getting to know you and your child.

Take note of how the dentist and staff interact with your children and how they make your child comfortable. A good pediatric dentist will find ways to make treatment enjoyable for your child. They’ll have an uplifting attitude, crack jokes, give amusing names to the tools and equipment, and have your child observe how things are done to gain interest and trust. They may even give rewards or prizes to your child for visiting the office.

Check Insurance Coverage

Comparing dental costs, and insurance coverage, can also help you select the ideal pediatric dentist for your child. Choosing an excellent pediatric dentist is important, but so is finding a dental office that can accommodate your financial needs.

Ask your insurance company if the dentists on your list are in their network and if they are covered for the kinds of treatment your child needs. Before seeing a dentist, you should confirm that they accept your insurance. If you don’t have insurance or if the dentist is not in your insurance network, speak with the dental office about possible payment options that will meet your needs.

Other Considerations

The office’s location is another important factor to consider. The accessibility of the office is important, especially for emergency dental concerns. You can also assess the dental office’s atmosphere, cleanliness, hygiene, and the attitudes of other patients while you’re there for your initial consultation. You should also think about the office’s service offerings, including if they provide your child with comprehensive dental treatment or just the bare minimum. Ensure that you are well informed about the types of treatment and services they provide and whether or not they emphasize prevention over addressing problems as they arise.

Bay Area Kids Dentist

If you’re in the Bay Area and are trying to find the children’s dentist, check out Bay Area Kids Dentist. We have four locations, all of which are run by board-certified professionals:

Santa Clara Office
Sunnyvale Office
Morgan Hill Office
Fremont Office

Through hospitality, education, and dental expertise, Bay Area Kids Dentist is known for giving every patient an outstanding dental experience. We’ll make sure your child is comfortable and cared for throughout their treatment. For more information, contact us today!

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Sugar and Kids Teeth

Sugar and Kids Teeth

One of the best ways to keep your kid’s teeth healthy is to limit their teeth’s exposure to sugar. However, this doesn’t mean that kids can’t eat sweet food or drink sweet beverages; you just need to make sure that they do this in moderation and that they clean their mouths thoroughly afterwards.

Sugar and Teeth: What Does Sugar Do to Teeth?

Sugar is considered to be one of the leading causes of tooth decay. However, it’s not exactly the sugar itself that causes teeth to decay.

There are different types of bacteria living in our mouths. When we eat or drink anything with sugar, a type of bacteria in our mouths will feed on that sugar, which leads to plaque buildup. If we let that plaque stick to our teeth for a long time, it becomes acidic. When this happens too many times, cavities start to appear.

Where Does Sugar Hide?

Sugar itself does not actually hide on the surfaces of your child’s teeth. The bacteria in their mouth will turn the sugars into plaque, which can damage their teeth. To prevent this from happening, make sure that your child practices good oral hygiene at all times. Brushing twice a day and flossing regularly will prevent plaque buildup and protect your kid’s teeth from cavities and early tooth decay.

How Can You Change Your Child’s Habits for Better Oral Health?

We’ve all been children before, so we all know how difficult it is to resist eating candy and other sweet treats. However, due to its negative effects on oral health, it’s important that your child cleans their mouth thoroughly after consuming sugar. By doing this, they can limit the accumulation of plague, allowing them to have better oral health.

To maintain good oral hygiene, your child should have a clear dental care routine. Ensure that they…

Brush Their Teeth at Least Twice a Day

Make sure that your kids are brushing their teeth at least twice a day. Fluoride toothpaste can greatly help in the fight against cavities and tooth decay.

Make sure you teach them also how to brush their teeth properly and thoroughly. You can teach them this yourself or show them a thorough YouTube video if you’re not sure how to explain it.

Don’t Forget to Floss

While brushing is important, it is not always enough. The bristles of a toothbrush can’t always reach the surfaces between your child’s teeth. To ensure that they remove all of the bacteria and plaque that accumulate on those hidden surfaces, ensure that your child flosses their teeth daily.

Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking water doesn’t just keep your child hydrated, it also helps maintain excellent oral health. Water can dilute or rinse away cavity-producing bacteria before it forms plaque. Drinking plenty of water also helps your child’s body produce more saliva, which is their mouth’s natural defense against plaque acids.

Visit A Dentist Regularly

Excellent oral hygiene doesn’t stop at home. You need to ensure your kids have regular appointments with a professional dentist, which we recommend scheduling every six months. With regular check-ins, a dentist can thoroughly check for any early signs of tooth decay and other oral problems. This helps prevent suffering from serious dental issues and offers plenty of learning moments for your kids to understand oral hygiene.

The Importance of Dental Hygiene and Regular Checkups

Dental hygiene is important as it helps prevent your child from developing tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral problems – include those associated with sugar consumption. Proper oral hygiene allows your kids to have strong and healthy teeth and avoid bacterial infections in their mouths.

Aside from practicing good oral hygiene at home, your kid should also have regular dental checkups. Since early signs of tooth decay can only be caught by dental professionals, it’s important that they are seen regularly to treat cavities and other dental issues as early as possible. That way, your child won’t suffer from serious oral health problems.

If you’re looking for a trusted pediatric dentistry clinic around the Sunnyvale area, then you should schedule a consultation with Bay Area Orthodontics. We have a team of board-certified professionals who will be happy to provide your kids with full pediatric dental services.

Reach out through our contact form under the locations menu or call us at (408) 512-2239 to get a complimentary orthodontic consultation

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I Forgot My Toothbrush and Other Travel Tips

Important Information Regarding Covid 19

Santa Clara
+1 408-668-1804

Sunnyvale
+1 408-539-2692

Morgan Hill
+1 408-539-2911

Fremont
+1 510-902-4272

I Forgot My Toothbrush and Other Travel Tips

It happens. You unpack your luggage after arriving at the hotel and realize that you missed one important item: your toothbrush. Quickly now, how do you solve this problem? Going to bed with unbrushed teeth is NOT an option — especially if you have kids with you. Dental care is a habit you want to instill, which means never skipping a day.

So, how do you solve this forgotten toothbrush problem? Here are some quick fixes to explore:

Ask the Hotel

Hotels occasionally provide toothbrushes as a courtesy, but they might only give one or two to the adults. They may miss out on the kids, so you’ll have to ask them for a few extra brushes for the night. This should tide them over until you buy child-specific toothbrushes for their little teeth.

Use a Paper Towel

A paper towel will be abrasive enough to remove dirt without causing damage to the enamel. Just wrap it around your finger and put some toothpaste on top before carefully brushing your mouth. You won’t get full coverage compared to an actual toothbrush but it should get you through the night. Don’t forget to brush your tongue and the side cheeks for a thorough clean. Rinse well afterward.

Use a Cloth

A clean cloth is also effective in cleaning your teeth. Use the same technique advised with the paper towel, making sure to brush all around including the tongue. Start with just a small amount of toothpaste and then quickly add to it, depending on the degree of cleanliness you want for your mouth. Assist the kids during this process since they might have a hard time reaching in their mouths.

Use Your Finger

If all else fails, use your finger to do the cleaning. Just make sure you wash it thoroughly first before using it like a toothbrush. A damp finger is best because it helps create that abrasive texture you’d want to remove anything off the surface.

Making Your Own Toothpaste
If toothpaste is the problem, there’s a solution for that, too! You can create a cleaning mixture by combining salt with water. The slightly abrasive texture of water can help brush the surface of the teeth for a wonderful clean.

Travel Tips for Teeth

It’s not enough that you brought your toothbrush with you – you need to use it! Additionally, proper travel care should be given if you want the toothbrush to clean your teeth instead of just spreading bacteria in your mouth.

Here’s what you need to remember:

Before leaving, remind everyone to bring their toothbrush. It helps if you pack your essentials together so everyone can quickly see what’s missing in their bag. The kids will love feeling like adults during this process.
Make sure the toothbrush is kept in a compartment specifically for travel. These compartments should be ventilated so the brush can air dry and deter mold growth.
For moms and dads packing for the rest of the family, it might be better to buy toothbrushes specifically for travel. These are light and compact brushes that can easily fit inside the bag. Most people clean their teeth before a flight and don’t think about putting the toothbrush they just used inside their travel bag. With a complete set of brushes, you can pack them the night before and everyone can still use their regular toothbrush in the morning.

If you’re traveling somewhere with questionable water quality, it’s best to use drinking water to rinse.
While on vacation, there’s a strong chance that the kids will have their fill of sugary food! Make sure they get tons of water during the day to help balance the effect of sugar on teeth.

Final Words

Making sure the whole family brushes their teeth every day is just one aspect of good oral hygiene. The fact is that without routine checkups with the dentist, you can’t really know for sure if your daily habits are contributing to good oral health. We recommend visiting the dentist at least once a year to quickly catch any forming cavities.

Select a kid’s dentist for your growing family. A pediatric dentist will give you the best chance to set your child’s path toward excellent oral health by fostering good relationships. Board-certified professionals at Bay Area Kids Dentists can give your kids the care they need during their formative years!