Additional FAQ’s For Parents
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With so much information available now via the internet and other sources, sometimes our questions are partially answered, other times we are left asking more questions.
If you have any questions, give us a call, we are here to help your entire family be successful in the care of their teeth. 253.851.9171.
Children’s Dentistry: FAQ’s
My 8-year-old has a large space between his/her two front teeth. Should we be concerned?
Usually there is no need for concern, and the space will close over the next few years as the other front teeth grow into place. We will monitor progress during exams and help you determine if orthodontics may be recommended.
Are dental X-rays safe?
There is very little risk from receiving dental X-rays. Our state-of-the-art technology utilizes a fraction of the radiation used in the past. X-rays are highly valuable for finding hidden decay and tumors, as well as determine growth patterns.
Should I protect my child's teeth during sports related activities?
Yes! We generally recommend that a soft plastic mouth guard should be used to protect a child’s teeth, lips, and cheeks from injuries.
- If your child plays contact sports, we can create a custom fitted mouth guard.
- For non-contact sports a soft plastic mouth guard purchased from most sporting goods stores are acceptable.
- Be sure to clean the mouth guard after each use by brushing it like you would your teeth, with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Store the mouth guard in a ventilated case.
What should I do if my child knocks out a baby tooth?
If a baby tooth is knocked out, it is best to leave it out or it may damage the permanent tooth below it. Always call us to make sure the whole tooth has come out.
What should I do if my child knocks out a permanent tooth?
The most important thing to do is to remain calm.
If you have the tooth and it appears to be intact:
- You should attempt to insert it back into its socket and then contact us immediately.
- Rinse the tooth gently before inserting it.
- Try not to touch or remove any biologic material from the root surface.
- If you have difficulty re-inserting the tooth, place it in a glass of milk.
- Contact us immediately, after hours contact information will be on our message.
If the tooth is shattered:
- Gather as many of the fragments of the tooth as you can, place it in a glass of milk, and call us immediately.
If the tooth is missing, call us immediately.
If the tooth is chipped or displaced (crooked):
- Try to assess if the child can bite correctly. Always call to be on the safe side.
Kvinsland Dentistry is here to support you. If something happens, give us a call.
How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride?
Each child’s intake can vary greatly. We recommend discussing this during your child’s exam. If your child’s fluoride intake is insufficient, we may prescribe fluoride supplementation.
What toothpaste is best for my child?
What causes cavities and decay?
Decay is caused by plaque — a thin, sticky, colorless deposit of bacteria that constantly forms on everyone’s teeth. When sugar is eaten, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack the tooth enamel. After repeated acid attacks, the enamel breaks down and a cavity or hole is formed in the tooth.
What if an adult tooth is coming in and the baby tooth is still in the mouth?
This is a very common problem, especially in the front lower incisors. If the teeth are loose, they may come out on their own within a few weeks. If the baby teeth are not loose, your dentist may need to extract the baby teeth. In either case, it is best to come in and have Dr. Kvinsland or Dr. DeBuck make sure the best course of action is taken for your child.
What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants protect the chewing surfaces of molars where most cavities in children are found. A sealant is a tough material that is painted into the tiny grooves and depressions in the molars. By “sealing out” food and plaque, sealants reduce the risk of decay. They are quickly and painlessly applied to any baby teeth and permanent teeth that, in the dentist’s opinion, are likely to get decay on the biting surface. Sealants must be checked periodically and replaced when necessary, though they generally last for several years.
