How to Use the Dental Chart for Your Kids’ Oral Health

THE DENTAL CHART

When your child visits a dentist for the first time, the dentist will begin charting their teeth. A periodontal chart, or simply dental chart, serves as an instrument for the pediatric dentist to note information and organize the data about the health of your kid’s gums and teeth as they grow. It is an effective tool to check problem areas and note on these chart.

Pediatric dentists also use charts to track growth and loss of baby teeth and eruption of permanent teeth.

Image 1: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) tooth chart

The chart shows the period children start to lose their primary teeth between six and seven years old. Children start to complete their permanent teeth by 12 years old, when the third molars erupt in their late teens.

By comparing the charts from previous visits, the dentist knows whether your child’s teeth are developing normally, at the right developmental start and in the right location. Since teeth differ in shape, size and their location in the jaws, these differences influence your child’s ability to speak, smile and chew, as well as how your child’s teeth gives his appearances its unique shape and form.

How It Works

Dentists use the Universal Numbering System when recording your child’s teeth. In the US, the Universal Numbering System is the official system used by the American Dental Association (ADA). In this system, the first tooth is situated at the upper far right of the kid’s mouth, also called as the ‘third molar’. The counting continues from the front to the upper left side, to the 16th tooth.

Universal Numbering System used by general dentists today.

The 17TH tooth is the lower third molar on the left side. Counting continues from the front to the lower right side third molar. Since both upper and lower teeth names have the same names, the use of a number system saves you time and confusion when charting.

Difference of Primary Charts and Adult Charts

There is only one major difference between a baby’s chart and an adult chart, and that is the number of teeth. Children are born with 20 teeth, while adults develop 32 permanent teeth. So, keeping good records through a dental chart is a significant part of a pediatric dentist’s work.

Having regular dental check-ups will make sure your dentist can track your child’s development and identify any problems such as overcrowding before they turn to a complex issue. Try to study the dental charts so you will have a better understanding on how dentists use a dental chart and the numbering system you see won’t sound unfamiliar anymore.

Pediatric Dentistry: Is Chewing Gum Good or Bad?

The sweetness and chewy texture of bubble gum can be irresistible for many kids. Aside from the sweet taste, blowing bubble adds to the fun element of it and that is what children love to do! However, parent must be concerned not only to the type of gum their kids chew, but also how often they do it.

Is Chewing Gum Good or Bad?

Bubble gum is usually made from gum base, artificial sweeteners, flavorings, colorings and softeners. It is only meant to be chewed and not swallowed. Gums cannot be digested by our bodies but that does not mean that it will stick to your intestine and block the food you eat and make you sick. Ever heard that story too?

Swallowing bubble gum won’t make you sick. It will just come through your body’s elimination system. But it’s best to spit it out when the flavour has gone or when you are through with it.

But when it comes to your child’s teeth, chewing gum has both positive and negative effects. Sweetened gums, like most bubble-producing products you see in the grocery, can cause dental caries by reacting with the bacteria that produce enamel-eroding acids. Gums sweetened with sugar can cause damage because it can get pressed against your kid’s teeth for long periods of time than candy.

Yet, chewing is good for your teeth. It promotes production of saliva that can help neutralize the acid causing tooth decay, while washing away food particle that got stuck around your gums and teeth. Acid can break down tooth enamel that creates the conditions for decay. Increase in saliva flow bring more phosphate and calcium to help strength your child’s teeth. Clinical studies have revealed that chewing sugarless gum following meals can help prevent tooth decay.

But these benefits cannot outweigh the disadvantages of chewing sugary gums. When they are chewing sugar-filled gums, they’re doing more harm to their teeth than good. If they keep chewing after it has lost its taste, it may be beneficial but it’s unlikely for kids to keep chewing flavorless gum when there’s fresh ones nearby.

Consider Sugar-free Gum

One option is sugar-free gum. Without the sugar, the bacteria in your child’s mouth will not produce enamel-eroding acid and the increase in saliva flow can help prevent cavities. Bad breath and dry mouth are often due to reduced saliva flow. Chewing sugar-free gum can help reduce the symptoms of bad breath and dry mouth.

There will be occasions when your child sneak for sugar-filled gums instead of xylitol gums. When this happens, explain to your child the danger of chewing sweetened gums and offer to exchange them for xylitol-sweetened gum. Another way to reduce the effects of chewing gum is by encouraging them to brush their teeth.

Mint Kids Dentistry’s top priority is bringing children and adolescents on the right path to dental health and proper oral hygiene. Dr. Soo Jun believes that early education will prepare kids to a lifetime of optimal dental health. Hence, she educates the importance of routine dental checkups and proper oral care.

Schedule an appointment as http://www.mintkidsdentistry.com/.

How Can I Help My Child Overcome Fear of the Dentist

For adults, dental visit is a routine part of life, however, for kids, especially those who have never been, visiting a dentist seems scary and frightening. So what can you do as parents to help overcome their fears? Below are some tips that can help how to provide comfort to your child and make the visit a pleasant experience.

Talk to Your Child

It is important to discuss your child’s fear and anxiety not only to help him feel better but to understand the root cause of their fear. Maybe a friend shared a frightening experience or the child may have watched something distressing about dentists on television.

When talking about his fear, set a time when it is quiet and you are not distracted so you can concentrate. Let your child know that you recognize his fear and understand it. Share that you have also experienced such fear in that situation too. In this way, you are able to build trust with your child and so he will open up to you. Having a clear understanding of the issue, you’ll be able to deal with the underlying issues.

Talk to the Pediatric Dentist

It will be better if you talk about your child’s fear to his pediatric dentist before the appointment. Most dentists are able to cater to nervous patients by giving some toys or giving extra time beforehand to chat with your little one. Sometimes, it only takes a little preparation to make your child’s visit to the dentist more enjoyable.

Involve Other Family Members

The presence of a sibling or a parent can help comfort your child. As such, it’s better to schedule a dental appointment together with your child to show him that he is not alone. Kids usually like to imitate their older siblings and like to do things with them so allowing your child to watch his sister or brother on the dentist’s chair can provide him the confidence boost that he needs. So when it is his turn to sit in the chair, his sibling can cheer him up.

Be a Role Model

There are many ways to be a good role model for your child. One, you can take your child with you when you go for routine cleaning. Allow him to watch the entire process and explain to your child about the work of a dentist. Show to him that you are relaxed by smiling while you are getting examined. Show to your child that a trip to the dentist is painless. Another way to be a good role model is to practice proper oral hygiene and let your little one see you brushing and flossing every day while helping him engage in his own habits by cleaning his teeth daily.

Your child may not be comfortable to visit his dentist at first, but hopefully with these suggestion, you can ease his anxiety.

Mint Kids Dentistry’s top priority is bringing children and adolescents on the right path to dental health and proper oral hygiene. Dr. Soo Jun believes that early education will prepare kids to a lifetime of optimal dental health. Hence, she educates the importance of routine dental checkups and proper oral care.

Schedule an appointment as http://www.mintkidsdentistry.com/.

How to Brush My Child’s Teeth?

While they do eventually fall out, it is still very important to take good care of your child’s milk teeth. Milk teeth helps them chew and bite food, and speak clearly. Underneath their teeth, roots of adult teeth are growing in place.

According to research, children who develop dental cavities in their milk teeth are more susceptible to develop cavities as an adult, so don’t take pediatric dental check-ups for granted. Even though they are still young, their teeth are still prone to the same damage and conditions that permanent teeth face. If he/she is at high risk for tooth cavities or decay, it is time to reduce consumption of starchy and sugary snacks and beverages.

Tips on How to Brush Your Child’s Teeth

Teaching your child on how to properly brush their teeth can instill a lasting habit that will promote a healthy mouth. Read below on how to get started with this routine.

Pick the right toothbrush

Take your child on a toothbrush shopping. Be sure to get a soft-bristled tooth. Kid’s toothbrush often come in different character themes and color – allow children to pick their toothbrush. There are also rotating, battery-operated toothbrush, which may come in handy for feisty toddlers.

Set the stage

It is advised to brush your teeth twice a day. Timing is also another crucial factor. When getting started, choose a time when your little one welcomes the idea of brushing like after breakfast and before bedtime. Of course, before naptime is a must, however, do not wait until he is tired or sleepy. Develop a ritual, like letting him/her go to the bathroom and turn the faucet. In this way, your child looks forward to the tooth brushing process and you are likely to be dealing with a cooperative toddler.

Start brushing

Prepare the toothbrush with toothpaste only a pea-sized amount. Next, determine his/her most comfortable position. You can use a step stool or a stand or your child can sit on your lap.

Begin by brushing the inside of the teeth first. Focus on brushing the gum line by moving the brush at a 45 degree angle. Move the toothbrush back and forth. Do the same on the outside of the teeth. Aim the gum line and do the same routine again.

Don’t forget to brush the top portion too. If your child gets cranky, take breaks but don’t forget to rinse their teeth and tell them not to swallow the toothpaste. Lastly, teach them how to properly rinse and spit using proper technique.

Make the experience fun

Turn toothbrushing into a game or sing a song to go along with it. This will help your child practice brushing and get the hang of it. You can also look for videos of their favourite cartoon character brushing teeth. In this way, you can make the experience fun and memorable, helping your toddler to enjoy tooth brushing and taking care of their dental health.

Mint Kids Dentistry’s top priority is bringing children and adolescents on the right path to dental health and proper oral hygiene. Dr. Soo Jun believes that early education will prepare kids to a lifetime of optimal dental health. Hence, she educates the importance of routine dental checkups and proper oral care.

Schedule an appointment as http://www.mintkidsdentistry.com/.

What are the Do’s and Don’ts When Using a Pacifier?

Sucking is a normal part of babies’ development. It is a natural reflex that they develop even before they are born. In fact, sucking provides them the comfort even after a child stops drinking milk from breast or bottle. Many children find pleasure by sucking their fingers or pacifier. On one hand, parent wonder if this habit can lead to problems on their child’s mouth or teeth.

Are Pacifiers Bad for Your Child’s Dental Health?

During a child’s first years, your child’s sucking habits probably won’t harm his/her mouth. However, frequent and long-term sucking can lead to problems, especially true if it continues after the milk teeth begins to fall out.

Some of the problems include:

• Top front teeth slanting out
• Bottom front teeth tilting in
• Misalignment of upper and lower jaws
• Roof of the mouth may become narrow side to side

Do’s and Don’ts of Using Pacifier

Below are some tips on how to use pacifier (1).

• Do purchase products that are made in one piece. It should not be composed of parts that may break off and might be swallowed.
• Do not try to calm a crying baby by dipping the pacifier in sugar water or any sweets. This will only increase the risk of developing tooth decay.
• Do not tie a pacifier on a necklace or string around the neck of your child. He could accidentally be strangled.
• Do encourage older children to give up using pacifier.
• Don’t use pacifier when the infant is falling asleep. He might be too dependent on the pacifier and may not learn how to sleep on their own.
• Do choose a pacifier with ventilation holes as it allow air passage. This feature is important in cases where the pacifier accidentally becomes lodged in your baby’s throat.
• Do replace pacifier every two to three months even if you cannot see any wear and tear.
• Don’t use pacifier when nipple changes color or become cracked, sticky or torn
• Do clean the pacifier before putting it in your child’s mouth. It can transmit germs that may risk your child of illness or cavities.

Thumb and pacifier sucking habits can become a problem if they continue for a very long period of time. Most kids discontinue use on their own, but if they continue past the age of three, your pediatric dentist may recommend a mouth appliance.

Also, your children should learn to do proper brushing and flossing of their teeth. In addition, it is important to visit a children’s dentist to have their teeth and gums checked.  Dental check-up every six month is advised to prevent carries and other dental problems.

Mint Kids Dentistry’s top priority is bringing children and adolescents on the right path to dental health and proper oral hygiene. Dr. Soo Jun believes that early education will prepare kids to a lifetime of optimal dental health. Hence, she educates the importance of routine dental checkups and proper oral care.

Schedule an appointment as http://www.mintkidsdentistry.com/.

How Can You Protect Your Child from Sports-Related Dental Injury?

Is your child into sports? If so, then you probably have to buy a mouth guard. Certain sports require every player to wear a mouthguard to protect from dental injury. However, not all mouth guards are the same. For a typical parent, it may be difficult which one suits best for your child.

Why Bother Getting One?

             Protect your child's smile

When you think about sports injury, what comes into your mind? You’ll likely think of things like bruises, scrapes, cuts, sprains, muscle cramps and even broken bones. Yet, you might have overlooked the chance of getting in the mouth, jaw or teeth.

Truth is, dental emergencies can be life-threatening. Most schools require using mouthguard as a protection during contact sports such as ice hockey and football. They are not require for non-contact sports like basketball or baseball even though there is still the risk for a dental injury.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), sports accidents accounts for about 10% to 39% of all dental injuries in kids. The most susceptible to oral injury are children between the age of 7 and 11.

Mouthguards can help protect the teeth by acting as a cushion against impacts to the face. Mouthguards reduce the risk of injuries to the jaw, teeth and soft tissues of the mouth. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends the use of items that can help prevent injuries to the mouth and face such as helmets, mouthguards and faceguards. It also encourages providing education on mouthguards and facial injury risks.

Mouthguards must be used by everyone while playing a sport, not only for contact sports. Moreover, they have to be worn even during practices.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Mouthguard

These tips will help you get the most from using a mouthguard:

1. Make sure you remove any removable dental appliances such as retainers.
2. If your child is wearing braces or has a protruding jaw, clef palate or receding chin, it is best to wear a custom-fitted mouthguard.
3. Don’t chew, bite or cut pieces off when using a mouthguard.
4. Always wear mouthguard during games and practice sessions.
5. Don’t forget to have regular dental checkups with your pediatric dentist. Each time you visit, bring your mouthguard with you.

When choosing a mouthguard, make sure that it is tear-resistant and resilient. It should also be comfortable and must fit properly. Aside from being easy to clean, the right mouthguard should not restrict breathing and speech.

Your children’s dentist can create a custom-made mouthguard for your child that is durable, comfortable and provides superior protection from dental injury. Since treating sports-related dental injuries can be a costly situation, having a custom-made mouthguard can be a worthwhile investment.

Mint Kids Dentistry’s top priority is bringing children and adolescents on the right path to dental health and proper oral hygiene. Dr. Soo Jun believes that early education will prepare kids to a lifetime of optimal dental health. Hence, she educates the importance of routine dental checkups and proper oral care.

Schedule an appointment at http://www.mintkidsdentistry.com/ .

Why Do Kids Need to Go to a Pediatric Dentist and to Visit Regularly?

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, tooth decay is one of the most common chronic childhood conditions in the US. If left untreated, tooth decay can be a painful and uncomfortable experience for children and it can lead to infection, creating problems with learning, speaking and most especially, eating.

• Nearly 1 out of 4 children between 5 and 11 years have at least one decayed tooth left untreated.
• Thirteen percent of adolescents between 12 and 19 years have at least one decayed tooth left untreated.

Importance of Early Childhood Dental Visits

The earlier children started going to a pediatric dentist, the healthier their teeth and mouth will be throughout their lives. Doing early dental visits help prevent tooth decay and cavities – conditions that can lead to pain, loss of appetite and other medical issues. Children with healthy teeth learn to speak clearly, chew their food thoroughly and smile with confidence!

The American Academy of Pediatric recommended that every child must visit a dentist at the age of 1. This visit also teaches caregivers and parents how to take good care of the child’s teeth and help keep them cavity-free.

For instance, pediatric dentists often see numerous children with tooth decay due to falling asleep with a bottle of juice or milk. Your pediatric dentist can teach the parent or caregiver why it causes cavities, why is it important to introduce drinking from a cup once they approach their first birthday and the proper way of brushing young teeth.

Your dentist can also explain why you need to stop on-demand bedtime feeding once your child’s first tooth emerges.

Another reason why early childhood dental visit is important is that your pediatric dentist can provide treatment procedure that can help prevent decay and cavities. Your children’s dentist may apply dental sealants to the chewing surfaces of the molars to prevent tooth decay. Studies show that sealants can reduce decay of permanent molars by about 81%. Flouride varnish is also another preventive dental treatment that is painted on the teeth to prevent decay.

What Parents Should Do

It is important to bring your child to his/her dentist by age 1 for checkup, as advised by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Consult your paediatrician or pediatric dentist about applying fluoride varnish as soon as first tooth appears as well as dental sealants.

If you are living in a community that has water not fluoridated, consult your dentist if your child needs fluoride supplements in the form of tablets, drops or lozenges.