Children’s dentist in Hoffman Estates
A good children’s dentist in Hoffman Estates is hard to find. The fact of the matter is that it takes an extra level of care and attention to become a good children’s dentist. At Forest Edge Dental our testimonials and track record speaks for itself. Our entire staff is patient and experienced with dentistry for all ages. Please feel free to read more about our dental staff and check out some testimonials. We strive to provide the best dental care for all ages! Please feel free to check out some of the information below concerning common questions about children’s dentistry.
About the first dental visit
Infants should be seen for their first dental visit between six and twelve months. This is typically the time your child’s first tooth will begin to erupt. The initial dental visit is intended to give the parent information on growth and development, prevention tips for tooth decay and become comfortable with our doctors and staff. Building trust early on will help keep your child at ease for future dental visits.
Baby bottle tooth decay
Once the child has begun teething and their primary or baby teeth begin to erupt is an essential time for our dentists to spot any potential issues. One early condition that can develop is baby bottle tooth decay. Baby bottle tooth decay takes place when sugary liquids (breast milk, juice, formula) adhere to an infant’s teeth for an extended period of time. During sleep is when this is worst as the sugars combine with saliva and pool around the teeth covering them in acids.
To avoid baby bottle tooth decay do not allow your infant to nurse a bottle containing anything other than water while falling asleep. Also avoid dipping pacifier in sweet substances and wipe your infant’s gums after feeding. If this is left untreated your child’s primary teeth could decay, develop infection and hinder the formation of their permanent or adult teeth.
Effects of pacifiers and thumb-sucking
Pacifiers are okay to use up until about the age of two to four. We typically discourage the use of pacifiers after this as they can hurt the development of your child’s teeth permanently.
Another habit strongly discouraged is thumb-sucking as this can lead to improper growth, alignment and changes in the roof of the mouth.
Teething & primary Teeth
Teething can be very irritating to your child. Their gums will be sore and your natural instinct will be to want to eliminate this pain for them. Teething rings, cool wet cloths, back of spoon and even rubbing your finger along their gums can help ease their pain.
Typically by the age of 3 each child has all 20 of their primary teeth. The condition and health of primary teeth are incredibly important. They allow for well-developed speech, maintain good nutrition and possibly most important guide their permanent teeth into place. Permanent teeth begin to erupt around age 6 continues until around age 21. Adults have 28 permanent teeth and 32 when including “wisdom” teeth.
Fluoride & dental sealants
Fluoride is important for teeth because it helps prevent tooth decay and strengthens the enamel. Fluoride is found in small amounts in our water, many types of toothpaste and some foods. If you have any questions pertaining to the amount you believe your child should consume please ask our dentists at Forest Edge Dental.
Dental Sealants are a preventative measure against tooth decay. Many of times the sealants are placed on the back molars of permanent teeth and used to protect the chewing surfaces. Dental sealant application typically lasts for several years. It is important to remember that fluoride and dental sealants alone will not prevent tooth decay in your children. Brushing, flossing, and making sure your children eat a well-balanced nutritious diet and routine dental visits are all essential in long lasting healthy smiles.
Forest Edge Dental is your Hoffman Estates go-to for Children’s Dentistry!
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