Children Teeth

Primary, or "baby," teeth are important for many reasons.

Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt.

First, rinse the irritated area with warm salt water and place a cold compress on the face if it is swollen.

Give the child acetaminophen for any pain, rather than placing aspirin on the teeth or gums.

Finally, see a dentist as soon as possible.

Avoid nursing children to sleep or putting anything other than water in their bed-time bottle.

Also, learn the proper way to brush and floss your child's teeth.

Take your child to a dentist regularly to have his/her teeth and gums checked.

The first dental visit should be scheduled by your child's first birthday.

Make sure your child has a balanced diet, including one serving each of: fruits and vegetables, breads and cereals, milk and dairy products, and meat fish and eggs.

Limiting the servings of sugars and starches will also aid in protecting your child's teeth from decay.

You can also ask your dentist to help you select foods that protect your children's teeth.

Sealants work by filling in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth.

This shuts out food particles that could get caught in the teeth, causing cavities.

The application is fast and comfortable and can effectively protect teeth for many years.

Mouth guards can be used to protect a child's teeth, lips, cheeks and gums from sport related injuries.

A custom-fitted mouthguard developed by a dentist will protect your child from injuries to the teeth, face and even provide protection from severe injuries to the head.