#pediatric dentist in Duluth

[nakidsdentistry]

Navigating Smiles: Choosing the Best Pediatric Dentist in Duluth

In the bustling world of parenting, one decision that can significantly impact your child's well-being is choosing the right pediatric dentist. Here in Duluth, where Nakidsdentistry takes the lead in pediatric dentistry, we understand the importance of finding a dental home that caters to the unique needs of your little ones.

Expertise Matters: When it comes to your child's smile, expertise is non-negotiable. Seek out a pediatric dentist in Duluth with specialized training in caring for children. Nakidsdentistry boasts a team of professionals committed to understanding the developmental stages of young smiles, ensuring age-appropriate and expert care from the first tooth to adolescence.

Emergency Ready: Kids being kids, accidents happen. Look for a pediatric dentist in Duluth who doubles as an emergency dentist. Nakidsdentistry is here for you when unforeseen dental issues arise, providing prompt and compassionate care. From knocked-out teeth to sudden pains, our team is equipped to handle emergencies, offering a sense of security to both parents and their little ones.

Comprehensive Care, Including Dental Fillings: Beyond routine check-ups, a stellar pediatric dentist should offer a full spectrum of services. At Nakidsdentistry, we take pride in our comprehensive care approach, including dental fillings. Our focus is on not just treating but also preventing dental issues, ensuring your child receives expert and gentle treatment if dental fillings are necessary.

Kid-Friendly Atmosphere: A visit to the dentist doesn't have to be daunting. Nakidsdentistry is designed to be a kid's friendly dentist in Duluth, creating an environment that eases anxiety and promotes positive dental experiences. From colorful décor to our friendly staff, every element is crafted to make your child feel comfortable and at home.

Preventive Focus: Prevention is the key to a continuance of healthy smiles. Look for a pediatric dentist who emphasizes preventive care. Nakidsdentistry goes beyond the clinic, offering guidance on at-home oral hygiene practices, nutritional tips, and age-appropriate routines to empower Duluth families to maintain optimal oral health for their children.

In the journey of parenting, choosing Nakidsdentistry means choosing a partner in your child's dental well-being. Our personalized approach, emphasis on prevention, and commitment to creating positive dental experiences make us the ideal choice for families seeking the best pediatric dentist in Duluth. Come, join us in nurturing smiles that last a lifetime.

Location : https://maps.app.goo.gl/qBXeGThowUyFPWDT9

[flossophiechildrensdentistry]

Welcome to Flossophie Children's Dentistry, your trusted pediatric dentist in Duluth. We're dedicated to ensuring bright smiles for the youngest members of your family. Our skilled team specializes in providing gentle dental care for children of all ages. Our pediatric dentist near you offers a warm, child-friendly environment equipped with the latest technology to provide top-notch dental services. From routine check-ups to advanced treatments, we prioritize your child's oral health, making every visit a positive experience. At Flossophie, we are committed to nurturing healthy teeth and happy smiles, setting the foundation for a lifetime of excellent oral hygiene.

[sugarloafsmiles]

Finding a Duluth Dentist You Can Trust: Why Our Practice Stands Out

Choosing a dentist is an important decision that can have a significant impact on your oral health and overall well-being. With so many options available, it can be challenging to find a Duluth dentist you can trust. At Duluth Family Dentistry, we understand the importance of building strong relationships with our patients based on trust, respect, and quality care. In this article, we will explore the reasons why our practice stands out and why you can trust us with your dental health.

Expertise and Experience

At Duluth Family Dentistry, our team of dental professionals has years of experience and expertise in providing high-quality dental care. Our dentists are trained in the latest dental techniques and technology to ensure that our patients receive the best possible care. We take pride in our commitment to continuing education and staying up-to-date with the latest advances in dental technology and procedures.

Comprehensive Services

We offer a comprehensive range of dental services to meet the needs of patients of all ages. Our services include preventive care, restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, emergency dental care, and pediatric dentistry. We believe in taking a personalized approach to dental care, and we work with our patients to develop individualized treatment plans based on their unique needs and goals.

State-of-the-Art Technology

We understand the importance of staying at the forefront of dental technology to provide the best possible care to our patients. At Duluth Family Dentistry, we use the latest state-of-the-art technology to provide accurate diagnoses, precise treatments, and faster recovery times. We use digital x-rays, intraoral cameras, and other advanced equipment to ensure that our patients receive the most effective and efficient care possible.

Patient Comfort and Convenience

We understand that many people experience anxiety or fear when it comes to visiting the dentist. At Duluth Family Dentistry, we are committed to providing a comfortable and stress-free environment for our patients. Our team is compassionate, friendly, and dedicated to making your experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. We also offer convenient appointment times and online scheduling to make it easy for you to fit dental care into your busy schedule.

Patient Education

We believe in the importance of patient education and empowering our patients to take an active role in their dental health. Our dental professionals take the time to explain procedures and treatments in detail, answer questions, and provide guidance on how to maintain good oral health at home. We also offer resources and educational materials to help our patients make informed decisions about their dental care.

Community Involvement

At Duluth Family Dentistry, we believe in giving back to the community that has supported us over the years. We are actively involved in community outreach programs and support local charities and organizations. We believe in the importance of building strong relationships with our patients and the community, and we are committed to making a positive impact wherever we can.

In conclusion, at Duluth Family Dentistry, we understand that choosing a dentist is a significant decision that can impact your overall health and well-being. That's why we are committed to providing the highest quality care and building strong relationships with our patients based on trust, respect, and quality care. With our expertise, state-of-the-art technology, patient comfort and convenience, patient education, and community involvement, we are confident that we can meet all of your dental needs and exceed your expectations. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the difference for yourself.

[duluthpediatricdentistry-blog]

During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar (sugar increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth causing more plaque and possibly cavities).

[nakidsdentistry]

Achieving Healthy Smiles: The Importance of Dental Fillings and Pediatric Dentistry in Duluth

Introduction

In the picturesque city of Duluth, where smiles are as bright as the shimmering waters of Lake Superior, maintaining optimal oral health is a top priority for residents of all ages. From toddlers to seniors, the key to a radiant smile often lies in proactive dental care. In this blog, we'll explore two essential aspects of maintaining oral health in Duluth: dental fillings and pediatric dentistry.

Dental Filling in Duluth

Dental fillings play a crucial role in preserving and restoring the integrity of teeth affected by cavities or minor damage. Duluth residents are fortunate to have access to top-notch dental professionals who specialize in dental fillings. These experts use advanced techniques and materials to ensure that the process is not only effective but also minimally invasive.

The procedure typically involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling the space with a suitable material, such as composite resin or amalgam. Dental filling in Duluth is a routine yet vital aspect of preventive dental care, helping residents avoid the progression of cavities and the need for more extensive treatments.

Benefits of Dental Fillings

Preserving Natural Teeth: Dental fillings help preserve the natural structure of the tooth by preventing the spread of decay.

Restoring Functionality: By filling cavities, the dentist restores the functionality of the affected tooth, allowing patients to bite and chew without discomfort.

Aesthetically Pleasing: Modern dental materials ensure that fillings are not only durable but also blend seamlessly with the natural tooth, maintaining a natural appearance.

Duluth Pediatric Dentistry

Ensuring a lifetime of healthy smiles often starts in childhood. Duluth pediatric dentistry focuses on providing specialized care for children, creating a positive and comfortable environment for their dental experiences. Early dental visits are essential to monitor the development of a child's oral health and address any concerns promptly.

Key Aspects of Duluth Pediatric Dentistry

Preventive Care: Pediatric dentists in Duluth emphasize preventive measures such as regular cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants to protect young teeth from decay.

Education and Awareness: Parents and children receive guidance on proper oral hygiene practices, establishing good habits early on for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Child-Friendly Atmosphere: Dental offices in Duluth often feature child-friendly environments, helping children feel at ease during dental visits and fostering a positive attitude toward oral health.

Conclusion

In Duluth, the path to a lifetime of healthy smiles involves a combination of proactive measures, including routine dental fillings and dedicated pediatric dentistry. By prioritizing oral health at every stage of life, residents can enjoy the stunning beauty of Duluth with the confidence that comes from a bright and healthy smile. Whether addressing cavities in adults or instilling good oral habits in children, Duluth's dental professionals are committed to making every smile count.

[duluthpediatricdentistry-blog]

If you take out your retainer to eat, brush your teeth, and floss, then remember to keep it safe in its container so that it does not get lost or broken.

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How do I schedule my next appointment? Simply call our practice! Our front desk staff will be happy to help schedule your next appointment at your convenience.

[duluthpediatricdentistry-blog]

Things Your Kids’ Dentist Probably Didn’t Tell You

The early years of parenthood come along with many challenges and issues to look after. Between changing diapers and educating our kids, it's easy to lose sight of other important matters like dental care.

Many parents tend to think going to a kids' dentist may not be a priority until the permanent teeth settle in.

Sadly, even some doctors fail to educate parents about the importance of healthy teeth. Let's take a look at five practices you should implement to ensure your kids have a healthy start in life:

1. Get Them Used to Brushing Teeth Early on

By "early", we mean as soon as the first tooth pops up or, even before. As unrealistic and useless as it might seem, starting early has two key benefits:

It helps your baby get used to a dental routine

A clean mouth keeps teeth health and fights tooth rotting bacteria

Try to make this a daily habit, at least twice a day.

2. Use Good Teeth Cleaning Techniques

Usually, it's not the lack of cleaning but the bad technique that leads to dental problems.

Here's what any kids' dentist should tell parents about cleaning children's teeth, depending on their age:

For a toothless baby, using a clean wet towel to massage the gums is all it takes.

For a baby with just a few teeth, use a rubber finger brush to clean the teeth. Then, rinse with a clean wet towel.

As the baby turns into a toddler, use a soft toothbrush to clean teeth. Be careful, though. Avoid the common aggressive back and forth brushing technique. Apart from being ineffective, it also damages the gums. The best way to clean the teeth is by moving the brush up-and-down in a circular way.

More here

[duluthpediatricdentistry-blog]

A Parent’s Handy Guide to the Different Types of Kids Braces

Sadly, it used to be common for children to pick on each other for wearing kids braces.

But now, with over 4.5 million people in the U.S. wearing them, the stigma has subsided. Especially since only 25% of those four million are adults.

It also helps that different types of braces (other than metal) have been developed. Many kids and teenagers dread the thought of wearing metal ones. This can sometimes lead to them developing certain self-esteem issues.

The alternatives you will read about in this article are likely to help alleviate those feelings. Not to mention they'll fix any irregularities that might affect their teeth.

1. Ceramic Kids Braces

You've undoubtedly seen how present-day metal braces look like. If not in real-life, then at least on television or in the movies.

Well, ceramic ones mimic them in shape and size. Your teen doesn't have to worry, though. These types of kids braces are very subtle.

You can get them with either of these options:

Clear ceramic brackets

Tooth-colored brackets

Tooth-colored wires

They are almost unnoticeable but are just as effective as metal braces.

2. Lingual Braces

The name can seem confusing to some. No, these kids braces don't somehow get attached to the tongue.

There's another explanation for the name. As you may know, braces are usually placed on the front of the teeth. Well, these are put on the inside.

If your young one is really shy, this alternative will keep their braces hidden from plain sight.

3. Invisalign (Invisible Removable Aligners)

Simply put, Invisalign consists of plastic tray aligners that move crooked and other affected teeth in any direction, to straighten them.

A huge benefit comes from the fact Invisalign is removable. This means your child can take the time and enjoy the occasional sweets without impediment - but with moderation, of course.

These aligners are removable for one good reason. They need to be replaced once every two weeks. This is to keep the teeth movement action on its course.

One thing we should mention is this. Invisalign is only recommended for teens and adults.

More here

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Local Dentist: Everything You Want to Know About Pulling Out Baby Teeth

Do you remember the time your baby teeth started falling out? Most likely it was both an exciting and slightly terrifying time. Maybe you managed to do it with the help of your parents or your local dentist.

But now you have your own kids and the whole process looks different. You want to make it as seamless as possible for your child - and with good reason.

If you don't have time to talk at length with a pediatric orthodontist about this, read further and get prepared for handling the whole baby teeth situation like a pro.

How Soon Should You Prepare

The age of six is when you notice more independence and awareness in your child than ever.

It's also the time teeth start falling off and you know your little one is starting to grow up.

First, the incisors will be looser. Loosening happens as the new adult teeth start to grow, thus making baby teeth roots needing to be reabsorbed. Having no roots to cling on to, baby teeth start dangling around.

The best scenario is when loose teeth fall by themselves or as a result of kids pressing their gums or their tongue against the tooth.

When this is not the case, though, there are measures you can take.

The Right Steps

Generally, you can help your child get rid of baby teeth by taking a soft cloth and twisting the tooth a little. In the event it shows resistance and your child feels pain, you know the tooth is not ready to be pulled out.

Here are a few steps to follow:

Apply an analgesic on the gums - allow it a few moments to show its effects.

Gently move the tooth back and forth.

When you feel it's just hanging by a thread, pull the teeth out.

Press the area with a clean pad.

Don't forget to distract your kid - focus on the event as an achievement, so as to cast away anxiety. Also, take the time to show them the tooth and discuss its anatomy - make it educational.

Check the gum after the bleeding stops.

One detail a local dentist wants you to know is you should let the kid take the lead.

More here

[duluthpediatricdentistry-blog]

Fluoride

How Does Fluoride Protect Teeth?

Fluoride benefits both children and adults. Here's how:

Before teeth break through the gums, the fluoride taken in from foods, beverages and dietary supplements makes tooth enamel (the hard surface of the tooth) stronger, making it easier to resist tooth decay. This provides what is called a "systemic" benefit.

After teeth erupt, fluoride helps rebuild (remineralize) weakened tooth enamel and reverses early signs of tooth decay. When you brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste, or use other fluoride dental products, the fluoride is applied to the surface of your teeth. This provides what is called a "topical" benefit.

In addition, the fluoride you take in from foods and beverages continues to provide a topical benefit because it becomes part of your saliva, constantly bathing the teeth with tiny amounts of fluoride that help rebuild weakened tooth enamel.

How Do I Get Fluoride?Drink Water with Fluoride

Fluoride is naturally found in most all water sources, rivers, lakes, wells and even the oceans. For the past 70 years, fluoride has been added to public water supplies to bring fluoride levels up to the amount necessary to help prevent tooth decay.

Community water fluoridation is like drinking milk fortified with Vitamin D or eating bread and cereals enriched with folic acid. Before water fluoridation, children had about three times as many cavities.  Because of the important role it has played in the reduction of tooth decay, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has proclaimed community water fluoridation one of ten great public health achievements of the 20th century. Studies prove water fluoridation continues to help prevent tooth decay by at least 25% in children and adults, even with fluoride available from other sources, such as toothpaste.  Today, almost 75 percent of the U.S. population is served by fluoridated community water systems.

Use Toothpaste and Mouthrinse with Fluoride Toothpaste with fluoride has been responsible for a significant drop in cavities since 1960. Look for one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance to make sure it contains fluoride.

Brush twice a day (morning and night) or as directed by your dentist and physician.

For children younger than 3 years, start brushing their teeth as soon as they start to appear in the mouth by using fluoride toothpaste in an amount no more than a smear or the size of a grain of rice.

For children 3 to 6 years old, use no more than a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.

Always supervise your child’s brushing to make sure they use the right amount and try to get your child to spit out most of the toothpaste.

Mouthwash with fluoride can help make your teeth more resistant to decay, but children six years or younger should not use it unless it’s been recommended by a dentist. Many children younger than 6 are more likely to swallow it than spit it out because their swallowing reflexes aren’t fully developed.

Visit Your Dentist for a Professional Application If you have a good chance of getting cavities, your dentist can apply fluoride directly to your teeth during your dental visit with a gel, foam or rinse.

Take a Fluoride Supplement Available by prescription only, fluoride supplements come in tablet, drop or lozenge forms. They are recommended only for children ages six months to 16 years living in areas without adequate amounts of fluoride in their community drinking water and who are at high risk of developing cavities. Talk to your dentist, pediatrician or family physician about your child's specific fluoride needs.

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/f/fluoride

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Kids Braces:

Braces and orthodontic treatment are used to correct “bad bites,” or malocclusion (teeth that are crowded or crooked). In some cases your teeth may be straight, but your upper and lower jaws may not meet properly. These jaw or tooth alignment problems may be inherited or could result from injury, early or late tooth loss, or thumbsucking.

If you have an abnormal bite your dentist may recommend braces or another orthodontic treatment to straighten out your smile. Correcting the problem can create a nice-looking smile, but more importantly, orthodontic treatment results in a healthier mouth. Not correcting an abnormal bite could result in further oral health problems, including:

tooth decay

gum disease

tooth loss

affected speech and/or chewing

abnormal wear to tooth enamel

jaw problems

Straightening your teeth can be accomplished in different ways. The kind of orthodontic treatment you have will depend on your preference and the options provided by your dentist or orthodontist. Traditional braces realign teeth by applying pressure. They usually consist of small brackets cemented to your teeth, connected by a wire, which is periodically tightened by your dentist or orthodontist to gradually shift your teeth and jaw. The brackets may be metal or tooth colored. Sometimes they are placed behind your teeth. Removable aligners are another option for treating orthodontic problems.

Orthodontic treatment may be provided by your dentist or an orthodontist, a dentist who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. It will depend on the orthodontic experience of your dentist and the severity of your case.

Since abnormal bites usually become noticeable between the ages of 6 and 12, orthodontic treatment often begins between ages 8 and 14. Treatment that begins while a child is growing helps produce optimal results. That doesn’t mean that adults can’t have braces; healthy teeth can be orthodontically treated at any age. Treatment plans will vary based on your situation, but most people are in treatment from one to three years. This is followed by a period of wearing a retainer that holds teeth in their new positions. Today’s braces are more comfortable than ever before. Newer materials apply a constant, gentle force to move teeth and usually require fewer adjustments. While you have braces it’s important to maintain a balanced diet for the health of your teeth. Of course, a healthy diet is always important, but eating too many sugary foods with braces can lead to plaque build-up around your brackets that could permanently stain or damage your teeth. Avoiding foods like popcorn, corn on the cob, chewing gum, whole apples, and other sticky foods is also a good idea. Ask your dentist about foods to avoid while you are in treatment. Not all of us are born with beautiful smiles, but with a good oral hygiene routine, and a little help from orthodontics, you can have a beautiful and healthy smile. You can read more about orthodontists and orthodontic treatment from the American Association of Orthodontists.

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/b/braces

[duluthpediatricdentistry-blog]

Mouthguards

Imagine what it would be like if you suddenly lost one or two of your front teeth. Smiling, talking, eating—everything would suddenly be affected. Knowing how to prevent injuries to your mouth and face is especially important if you participate in organized sports or other recreational activities.

Mouthguards, also called mouth protectors, help cushion a blow to the face, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to your lips, tongue, face or jaw. They typically cover the upper teeth and are a great way to protect the soft tissues of your tongue, lips and cheek lining. “Your top teeth take the brunt of trauma because they stick out more,” says Dr. Thomas Long, a private practice dentist and team dentist for the Carolina Hurricanes professional hockey team. “Your bottom teeth are a little more protected because they are further back.”

When Should You Wear a Mouthguard?

When it comes to protecting your mouth, a mouthguard is an essential piece of athletic gear that should be part of your standard equipment from an early age. While collision and contact sports, such as boxing, are higher-risk sports for the mouth, any athlete may experience a dental injury in non-contact activities too, such as gymnastics and skating.

Types of MouthguardsThe best mouthguard is one that has been custom made for your mouth by your dentist. However, if you can’t afford a custom-made mouthguard, you should still wear a stock mouthguard or a boil-and-bite mouthguard from the drugstore. Learn more about each option:

Custom-made: These are made by your dentist for you personally. They are more expensive than the other versions because they are individually created for fit and comfort.

Boil and bite: These mouth protectors can be bought at many sporting goods stores and drugstores and may offer a better fit than stock mouth protectors. They are first softened in water (boiled), then inserted and allowed to adapt to the shape of your mouth. Always follow the manufacturers' instructions.  CustMbite MVP and CustMbite Pro are a boil and bite mouthguards that have earned the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

Stock: These are inexpensive and come pre-formed, ready to wear. Unfortunately, they often don’t fit very well. They can be bulky and can make breathing and talking difficult.

Protecting Your BracesA properly fitted mouthguard may be especially important for people who wear braces or have fixed bridge work. A blow to the face could damage the brackets or other fixed orthodontic appliances. A mouthguard also provides a barrier between the braces and your cheek or lips, which will help you avoid injuries to your gums and cheeks.

Talk to your dentist or orthodontist about selecting a mouthguard that will provide the right protection. Although some mouthguards only cover the upper teeth, your dentist or orthodontist may suggest that you use a mouthguard on the lower teeth if you have braces on these teeth.

If you have a retainer or other removable appliance, do not wear it during any contact sports.

Mouthguard Care and ReplacementTalk to your dentist about when is the right time to replace your mouthguard, but replace it immediately if it shows sign of wear, is damaged or ill fitting. Teens and children may need to replace their mouthguards more often because their mouths are still growing and changing.

Between games, it’s important to keep your mouthguard clean and dry. Here are some tips for making sure your mouthguard is always ready to go:

Rinse before and after each use or brush with a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Regularly clean the mouthguard in cool, soapy water. Then, rinse it thoroughly.

During your regular dental checkups, bring your mouthguard for an evaluation. Your dentist may also be able to give it a thorough cleaning.

Store and transport the mouthguard in a sturdy container that has vents so it can dry and keep bacteria from growing.

Never leave the mouthguard in the sun or in hot water.

Check fit and for signs of wear and tear to see if it needs replacing.

Some mouthguards have fallen victim to family pets, who see them as chew toys. Store your mouthguard and case somewhere your pet cannot get to it.

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/m/mouthguards

[duluthpediatricdentistry-blog]

Healthy Habits

Brushing and Cleaning your Teeth

Want to avoid cavities? Brushing twice a day with toothpaste, cleaning your teeth once a day, and limiting sugary snacks and beverages is how you do it. It’s simple but sometimes life gets busy and you might be tempted to skip it. Don’t. A bright smile makes you feel good inside and out. Make sure to see your dentist regularly, too.

Some things to protect your smile

Sealants

Dental sealants are a type of special plastic coating that act as a barrier, protecting cavity-prone areas. They are usually applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth and are sometimes used to cover deep pits and grooves in other teeth. Sealing a tooth is fast and easy. As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay

. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing but sometimes a reapplication is needed. Talk to your dentist about sealants. Remember: Just because you have sealants doesn’t mean you don’t have to brush and clean between your teeth every day. Sealants are added protection against decay!

Mouthguards

If you play a sport or are active in things like skateboarding or snowboarding, it’s a good idea to wear a mouthguard. It may feel funny at first, but mouthguards are the best thing you can do to protect your teeth from getting broken or knocked out. They cushion blows that would otherwise cause injuries to the lips and face and sometimes even jaw fractures. There are different kinds of mouthguards; ask your dentist which one is right for you.

https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/teens/healthy-habits

[duluthpediatricdentistry-blog]

What is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?

What is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?

Baby bottle tooth decay is caused by the frequent and long-term exposure of a child's teeth to liquids containing sugars. Among these liquids are milk, formula, fruit juice, sodas and other sweetened drinks. The sugars in these liquids pool around the infant's teeth and gums, feeding the bacteria in plaque. Every time a child consumes a sugary liquid, acid produced by these bacteria attack the teeth and gums. After numerous attacks, tooth decay can begin.

The condition also is associated with breast-fed infants who have prolonged feeding habits or with children whose pacifiers are frequently dipped in honey, sugar or syrup. The sweet fluids left in the mouth while the infant is sleeping increase the chances of cavities.

Why should I be worried about baby bottle tooth decay?

Giving an infant a sugary drink at nap or nighttime is harmful because during sleep, the flow of saliva decreases, allowing the sugary liquids to linger on the child's teeth for an extended period of time. If left untreated, decay can result, which can cause pain and infection. Severely decayed teeth may need to be extracted. If teeth are infected or lost too early due to baby bottle tooth decay, your child may develop poor eating habits, speech problems, crooked teeth and damaged adult teeth. Healthy baby teeth will usually result in healthy permanent teeth.

How can I prevent baby bottle tooth decay?

Never allow a child to fall asleep with a bottle containing milk, formula, juice or other sweetened liquids. Clean and massage the baby's gums to help establish healthy teeth and to aid in teething. Wrap a moistened gauze square or washcloth around the finger and gently massage the gums and gingival tissues. This should be done after every feeding.

Plaque removal activities should begin upon eruption of the first baby tooth. When brushing a child's teeth, use a soft toothbrush and water. If you are considering using toothpaste before your child's second birthday, ask your dentist first. Parents should first bring their child to the dentist when the child is between 6 and 12 months old.

Will changes in my child's diet help prevent baby bottle tooth decay?

A series of small changes over a period of time is usually easier and eventually leads to better oral health.

To incorporate these changes:

Gradually dilute the bottle contents with water over a period of two to three weeks.

Once that period is over, if you give a child a bottle, fill it with water or give the child a clean pacifier recommended by a dentist. The only safe liquid to put in a bottle to prevent baby bottle tooth decay is water.

Decrease consumption of sugar, especially between meals.

Children should be weaned from the bottle as soon as they can drink from a cup, usually by their first birthday, but the bottle should not be taken away too soon, since the sucking motion aids in the development of facial muscles, as well as the tongue.

http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=C&iid=296&aid=1185