Early dental care can help your child be healthy and have more fun in life. Dental care can prevent tooth pain and other problems that can take the fun out of life.
We know that you or your child may have questions about your child's dental care. Perhaps we can answer some of them for you.
Answers for Parents
When Should My Child First See a Dentist?
Watch your baby carefully that first year of life. As soon as the first tooth breaks through, it's time for a mad dash to the dentist! A little extreme, you say?
OK well, seriously, it is best to visit the dentist after the first tooth has broken through. If that is not possible, then your child should definitely be seen by the first birthday. After that, your child may see the dentist every 6 months. The idea is to get an early start, establish healthy habits from the get-go, and detect problems early. Small problems are easier to treat than large ones.
How Can I Help My Child's Dental Health?
Feed your child foods from each food group to help build healthy teeth and gums. Be sure to avoid frequent snacking between meals and limit sugary and starchy snacks.
Brush, brush, brush. Teeth need to be brushed at least twice daily for 1-2 minutes each time. Floss at least once every day everywhere that teeth are touching. Rinse with water or a mouthwash once the child can spit everything out on demand.
What If My Child has a Toothache?
If your child has tooth pain, you can help by first rinsing the painful area with warm salt water. Put a cold compress on any swelling. Then give acetaminophen for the pain, and take your child to see the dentist as soon as possible.
What Happens at the Dentist?
While waiting to be treated, your child can watch TV shows, play with toys, read books, or even play video games.
Routine Care-
During cleanings, teeth will be cleaned and flossed. Other services include X-rays, fluoride treatments, and sealants.
Dental Treatment -
During the treatment of cavities or other problems, each patient is kept pain free through the use of safe and gentle medications.
Parents are an essential part of the entire visit.
Answers for Kids
Will it Hurt?
Worried it will hurt? While cleanings are not painful, toothaches are. You will be given a safe medicine so you can feel calm and pain free. Any toothache will actually feel numb while being fixed.
Will it be Scary?
Have no fear, your friendly dentist is here!
New things, like going to the dentist, can seem scary. But your dentist will do as much as he or she can to help you feel safe and happy.
The spinning brush used to brush your teeth may sound funny, but it is nothing to be scared of. It actually tickles!
Your parents can be in the same room too.
Will Going to the Dentist be Boring?
Boring? No way!
Play games, play with toys, read, or watch TV before your appointment.
You can even watch a movie during your cleaning or treatment. How cool is that?
Cool prizes can be picked out at the end of every appointment.
Why Tatum Pediatric Dentistry is Right for You and Your Child
We provide gentle dental care for kids and adolescents in a fun environment. Many fun activities are provided during your child's wait time. Parents are welcome in the treatment rooms.
Safe, Gentle, and Effective Pain Relief-
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Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas): Nitrous Oxide is breathed through a funny looking "nose" and helps your child feel relaxed and happy.
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Oral Conscious Sedation: A sweet liquid is given to help your child relax while staying concious.
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General Anesthesia: This will safely put your child to sleep to have a painless treatment.
Digital X-rays-
We use x-rays only when needed. Digital x-rays are used since they are safer and use less radiation than conventional x-rays.
Fun Environment-
Your child will have no shortage of things to do while waiting to be seen. We provide:
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Fun toys
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Books
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iPad's
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Free Wifi
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A tree house
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TV's everywhere
