Bringing Fun to Dentistry When It's Most Important
Our dentists are firm believers that a visit to the dentist should be enjoyable, relaxed, and devoid of any fear. The initial experiences your child has with dentistry play a crucial role in shaping their perception of dental care and future dental appointments.
Our team prioritizes young patients, treating them with kindness, respect, and the same level of care as our own children. We use clear language to explain procedures and keep parents informed.
Ensuring your child's overall health and wellbeing includes prioritizing pediatric dentistry. Safeguard your child's precious smile by scheduling an appointment at West Asheville Family Dentistry. Booking online or calling 828-255-8676 is easy.
Initial Visit
We aim to ensure that your child's first dental visit is a pleasant one. If your child is capable of understanding, it is advisable to inform them about their appointment. However, it is important not to make a fuss about it and treat it like any other regular day. Our team works hard to build trust with your child, minimizing any potential anxiety they may have about visiting the dentist.
The Importance of Baby Teeth
It is crucial to prioritize the well-being of your child's primary teeth for various reasons. Although the front four teeth will only remain until they are 6-8 years old, the back teeth will not be lost until they reach the ages of 10-13.
Baby teeth serve multiple important functions. They enable your child to eat, chew, and speak effectively. Additionally, they play a crucial role in creating enough room for the permanent teeth to grow and align properly. It is crucial not to overlook the care of your child's primary teeth as neglecting them can result in issues that may impact the development of their permanent teeth.
Tips for Taking Care of Your Child's Teeth
It is recommended to start cleaning your child's gums with a soft cloth and water from birth. Once their teeth start coming in, proper tooth brushing becomes crucial in protecting their teeth from cavity-causing bacteria. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste (no more than a pea-sized amount). Make sure your child spits out the excess toothpaste. Flossing is also necessary in areas where their teeth touch together, as food and bacteria can get trapped and lead to cavities. Additionally, it is important to assist your child in brushing their teeth as young children may not have the coordination to do it effectively on their own.
Your child's teeth are coming in
Your child's teeth begin to form even before they are born. Usually, children start getting their first teeth, specifically the two lower front teeth, between the ages of 6 to 10 months. By the age of 3, most children have all 20 of their primary teeth, although the sequence and timing of eruption may vary.
When children reach around 6 years old, their permanent teeth start to come in. The initial permanent teeth to emerge are the first molars and the lower front two teeth, also known as the central incisors. Adults typically have 28-32 permanent teeth, with the exact number depending on the development of wisdom teeth.
Please stop sucking your thumb
Babies and toddlers have a natural instinct to suck on their thumb, fingers, pacifiers, or other objects. This sucking reflex provides them with a sense of comfort and joy. While it is normal for young children, it can become problematic if the habit persists after their permanent teeth start coming in. This can result in issues with the proper growth of their jaw and alignment of their teeth, such as crowding and an open bite. To prevent these problems, we advise parents to help their children stop thumb sucking by the age of 2-4 years.
Sippy Cups
Sippy cups serve as a transitional tool for babies, bridging the gap between bottles and regular cups. During meals, you can fill your child's sippy cup with beverages like milk or juice, but for the rest of the day, it should only contain water. Allowing your child to constantly consume sugary drinks can harm their teeth by eroding the enamel and leading to extensive tooth decay.
The optimal time to get braces
Although certain malocclusions can be identified and treated as early as 4-6 years old, the majority of orthodontic procedures typically commence between 8-12 years old. It is advisable for children to have their initial orthodontic consultation around the age of 8. Even though they may still have some primary teeth, their dental and facial structures are highly receptive to treatment during this period.
Sealants
Sealants serve as a protective layer that is applied to the deep grooves of children's permanent molar and premolar teeth. These teeth are challenging for children to clean properly due to their limited dexterity and their location at the back of the mouth. It is worth noting that a significant 80% of cavities in children are found in these molars and premolars. The purpose of sealants is to create a barrier that prevents food, acid, and decay-causing bacteria from entering, thus aiding in the prevention of cavities.