Reading Dental Associates Blogs

Prior to baby’s birth, and by the third week post conception, the baby’s mouth starts to form. Over the next few weeks, the tongue, jaws and palate develop as well. During the sixth week, formation of embryonic cells or tooth buds that eventually form into teeth commences. By eight weeks, the tooth buds of all of the primary (baby) teeth can be discerned; by twenty weeks, the tooth buds of permanent teeth start to develop. Post birth, the...

How To Prevent Cavities For Kids?Good oral hygiene removes bacteria and the left over food particles that combine to create cavities. For infants, use a wet gauze or clean washcloth to wipe the plaque from teeth and gums. Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle filled with anything other than water. See "Baby Bottle Tooth Decay" for more information.For older children, brush their teeth at least twice a day. Also, watch the number of snacks...

TeethingTeething, the process of baby (primary) teeth coming through the gums into the mouth, is variable among individual babies. Some babies get their teeth early and some get them late. In general, the first baby teeth to appear are usually the lower front (anterior) teeth and they usually begin erupting between the age of 6-8 months.Baby Bottle Tooth Decay (Early Childhood Caries)One serious form of decay among young children is baby bottle...

Dental problems for kids may arise suddenly. When a tooth becomes dislodged or broken, when debris becomes lodged between your child’s teeth, or when your child suffers from severe discomfort that you cannot alleviate, we offer emergency dentistry services. Your child’s best interest and comfort are always our top priorities.Toothache: Clean the area of the affected tooth. Rinse the mouth thoroughly with warm water or use dental floss to...

Does Your Child Grind His Teeth at Night? (Bruxism)Parents are often concerned about the nocturnal grinding of teeth (bruxism). Often, the first indication is the noise created by the child grinding on their teeth during sleep. Or, the parent may notice wear (teeth getting shorter) to the dentition. One theory as to the cause involves a psychological component. Stress due to a new environment, divorce, changes at school; etc. can influence a...

What Is The Best Toothpaste For My Child?Tooth brushing is one of the most important tasks for good oral health. Many toothpastes, and/or tooth polishes, however, can damage young smiles. They contain harsh abrasives, which can wear away young tooth enamel. When looking for a toothpaste for your child, make sure to pick one that is recommended by the American Dental Association as shown on the box and tube. These toothpastes have undergone...

Brushing tips for kidsStarting 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 toothpaste and make sure your child does not swallow it. When brushing, the parent should brush the...

Understanding thumb sucking for kidsThumb sucking is a natural reflex and infants and young children may use thumbs, fingers, pacifiers and other objects on which to suck. It may make them feel secure and happy, or provide a sense of security at difficult periods. Since thumb sucking is relaxing, it may induce sleep.Thumb sucking that persists beyond the eruption of the permanent teeth can cause problems with the proper growth of the mouth...

Understanding adolescent dentistryYou might not be surprised anymore to see people with pierced tongues, lips or cheeks, but you might be surprised to know just how dangerous these piercings can be. There are many risks involved with oral piercings, including chipped or cracked teeth, blood clots, blood poisoning, heart infections, brain abscess, nerve disorders (trigeminal neuralgia), receding gums or scar tissue. Your mouth contains...

Did you know that nitrous oxide has been used in dental procedures for 100 years? It’s an extremely safe way to make sure your child is comfortable during otherwise uncomfortable dental procedures such as fillings, crowns, and extractions. Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative that can be easily controlled, does not affect heart rate, and has no ill effects on the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, or brain. Nitrous oxide has no odor and, used in...