Category: Dental Cleaning & Exams

Do Routine Teeth Cleans Matter? Yes — Here’s Why

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric Dentistry 

Teeth brushing time: Every parent’s worst nightmare or part of the nightly routine. The problem? No parent ever knows what side that flipped coin will land on in a given night. Spice that up with the stress of an upcoming dentist visit in their minds, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for trouble in most pediatric cases.

Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be that way. Our expert pediatric dentists Greenville, NC recommend early and continuous education around the importance of routine teeth cleaning and brushing, eliminating the anxiety that can be associated with either part of your regular practice. 

Read on to learn about the best benefits your child can gain from a routine clean. Then, use them to alleviate any pre-dentist fears as they arise. We’re rooting for you! 

Disease Avoidance In The Future 

Oral health conditions, like gingivitis and cavities, can lead to extreme pain, bleeding, swelling and other unpleasant symptoms. Your children can avoid these illnesses with routine deep-cleaning, giving your dentist a bird’s eye view into any oral issues before they take root. 

Fresh Breath 

No one likes having bad breath. After seeing the dentist in Greenville, NC., your children will have the confidence that comes from a great-looking, clean smile and fresh breath. All of the halitosis-causing plaque and germ buildup will be washed away from hard-to-reach places during the deep clean, thanks to the specialty, higher-pressure tools that your pediatric dentist Greenville, NC has access to. 

Long-Term Health Benefits 

Did you know? Many experts have found that routine cleanings can lower one’s risk of dementia, stroke, and heart disease. While your children may be too young to realize this benefit, you can rest assured knowing that you elevate their overall level of health with each visit. You can also encourage them with the thought that it’s not just their mouth they’re affecting when they go in for a clean. It’s every system of their body. 

Ready To Book Your Appointment? 

On the hunt for a pediatric dentist near me? The experts at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry are here to help. Our specialists help thousands of kids per year keep their teeth clean, healthy, and absolutely gleaming—giving them deep cleanings and the care they deserve in a convenient, accessible, and pain-free way. 

Connect with us today for more information. We look forward to serving you. 

Preventing Cavities in Greenville, NC: A Parent’s Guide to Oral Health Habits

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric Dentistry 

It’s never too early to teach your child good oral health habits. From scheduling regular appointments with an experienced pediatric dentist in Greenville, NC, to creating care routines at home, here are some best practices to prevent your child from developing cavities. 

Cavity Prevention Tips 

Cavities, also referred to as tooth decay, are holes that occur as the tooth is damaged by plaque and bacteria. According to Pediatric Dentists in Greenville, NC, Children are at high risk for cavities, as they often struggle to brush their teeth correctly and consume sugary or acidic foods. Keep reading to learn practical tips to prevent your child from developing cavities. 

Take Your Child For Periodic Teeth Cleanings

The American Dental Association recommends taking your child for a dental visit by their first birthday. As soon as your baby has teeth, the risk of a cavity developing occurs. Your dentist will help you set a schedule for teeth cleaning in Greenville, NC, that will help prevent cavities and catch any early-stage tooth decay before it becomes severe. 

Practice Good Oral Health Habits at Home

Directing your child through a consistent oral hygiene practice when they are young will help prevent cavities and form healthy habits. These positive behaviors may stay with them through adulthood and offer significant health benefits as they age. 

Establish a routine of brushing at least twice daily with a dentist-approved toothpaste and regularly flossing. When children are young, you’ll need to help them learn to brush correctly and watch to make sure they are brushing all their teeth, as molars can be easily skipped. 

Skip Sugary Treats

While any food can contribute to cavity formation if your child doesn’t brush their teeth, certain foods are more damaging to tooth enamel than others. Avoid or limit sugary foods such as desserts, soda, juices, and candy. Gummy candies, taffy, and fruit leather are especially destructive, as they become wedged between teeth and are difficult to clean off properly. 

Schedule Appointments in Greenville, NC

Sometimes, despite parents’ best efforts, children still develop cavities. If that happens, the wisest thing to do is schedule your child for a dental filling in Greenville, NC as soon as possible. 

Tooth decay can spread, and cavities in baby teeth can cause issues that impact your child’s adult teeth. Taking your child for a cavity filling in Greenville, NC, is the best way to prevent a cavity from causing long-term damage.

Make Dentist Visits Enjoyable in Greenville, NC

When you make dental care a regular part of your child’s life, dentist visits won’t cause anxiety or stress. Taking your child to a kids’ dentist in Greenville, NC, also makes the occasion more pleasant, as the dental team will be experienced in caring for children’s specific needs.

It’s never too soon to start thinking about your child’s dental health. Schedule an appointment at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry today, and take the first step toward helping your child have a healthy smile.

The ABCs of Dental Fillings: Understanding the Process

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry
Dental Fillings  

Tiny teeth deserve big smiles, and dental fillings can play a crucial role in keeping those smiles healthy and bright. Whether you’re a seasoned parent or new to the game, understanding the process of getting dental fillings in Greenville can help you as you make informed decisions for your child’s well-being. 

Cavities and Getting a Cavity Filling in Greenville, NC

Early Cavity Detection

The process begins with finding a good dentist in Greenville, NC: someone who specializes in helping children feel comfortable and cared for and who can do a thorough dental checkup. 

At Wilson Pediatric Dentistry, your trusted pediatric dentist in Greenville, NC, we use advanced technology like digital X-rays to uncover cavities even in their earliest stages. Early detection minimizes tooth damage and ensures smoother, less invasive filling procedures.

Clearing the Way

If a cavity is identified, Dr. Elmore will gently remove the decayed tooth material using special instruments. Anesthesia is available to ensure your child’s comfort throughout the process.

Dental Fillings

At Wilson Pediatric Dentistry, we offer a variety of dental fillings in Greenville, NC, tailored to your child’s needs and preferences. The most common filling we use is tooth-colored composite fillings, which blend seamlessly with natural teeth, making them ideal for front teeth especially. 

There are other materials available, and in rare cases, we might put in a dental crown. Each material has its unique advantages, and our experienced pediatric dentist will guide you toward the best choice for your child’s specific situation.

Cavity Prevention

While fillings effectively restore teeth, prevention is always the gold standard. Regular dental cleanings and fluoride treatments at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry can significantly reduce the risk of cavities in the first place. We also provide age-appropriate oral hygiene education, empowering your child to take charge of their smile.

Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

At Wilson Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that a visit to the dentist can be nerve-wracking for both parents and children. That’s why we create a warm, welcoming environment where every child feels comfortable and cared for.

Kid-Friendly Atmosphere

Bright colors, playful decorations, and a touch of magic transform dental appointments into fun adventures.

Gentle, Experienced Dentist

Dr. Elmore is specially trained to work with children, ensuring a calm and stress-free experience for your child. The goal is that they never have an unpleasant experience and thus never learn to “fear” a dental visit.

Advanced Technology

Digital X-rays, comfortable equipment, and the latest in modern techniques minimize discomfort and maximize efficiency.

Schedule your child’s next dental checkup today and let Wilson Pediatric Dentistry be your partner in creating a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Facts About Oral Disease

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Oral Health

Oral disease—what is it and what should parents know? Contrary to what many believe, oral disease isn’t a single condition. It’s actually a group of conditions that can be affected and caused by a range of factors. 

Not to worry, though; there are plenty of ways you can help your children to steer clear of these conditions and maintain their healthy smile. Here’s what parents should know about oral disease in children: 

What Causes Oral Disease? 

Oral disease can be caused by a range of factors, just like many other conditions. Some of the most impactful triggers include: 

 

  • Environmental factors: This is a broad term that can define anything in the environment that can bring on or catalyze a disease process. For example: Your child’s diet can be an environmental factor that can contribute to their overall oral health. 
  • Underlying conditions: Certain health conditions that may already be present in your child’s health profile (such as autoimmune conditions) can spur on oral disease. 
  • Oral hygiene changes: Children can be especially susceptible to oral disease, as they are still building solid oral health habits. Parents can help by getting involved and demonstrating healthy patterns. 

 

How Many People Have Oral Disease 

The World Health Organization estimates that oral disease can affect approximately 3.5 billion people at any time. It is incredibly common—and is one of the reasons why seeing a pediatric dentist in Greenville, NC is so important. Your pediatric dentist can slow the spread of disease or prevent it entirely. 

What Does “Oral Disease” Include? 

There are many different conditions that fall under this umbrella, including: 

 

  • Tooth loss: This doesn’t really count for “baby teeth.” Tooth loss in this context can occur after trauma or tooth decay that has progressed. It can occur in children due to illness or poor brushing habits. 
  • Gum disease: This is often preceded by gum pain or redness, as well as bleeding. It can lead to tooth loss if untreated. 
  • Oro-dental trauma: Trauma can occur in this area due to sports or direct impact from play. If you believe that your child is experiencing this, it’s best to get them in right away for an assessment. 

 

Where Is The Best Local Pediatric Dentist in Greenville, NC? 

If you’re looking to have your child evaluated for oral disease, we’re here to help. Our kid’s dentists in Greenville, NC specialize in preventative care and early intervention for your child’s oral health needs. Connect with us online to learn more. 

Why Does My Child Keep Getting Cavities?

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

child cavity filling

It can be challenging when your children get cavities, even though you help them brush and try to limit sugary foods. Cavities are common, affecting more than half of kids by age 8, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. When our patients need a cavity filling in Greenville, NC, we explain why cavities occur and provide tips to prevent future tooth decay. We’ve also developed this guide to help keep your kids’ teeth cavity-free.

Causes of Cavities

Cavities occur when bacteria in the mouth combine with food particles on the teeth to form plaque. This sticky substance erodes the tooth’s protective enamel and eventually creates a tiny hole called a cavity. 

Cavities are more common in children who:

  • Do not brush and floss regularly
  • Do not visit the dentist at least once a year
  • Eat foods that leave starch and sugar on the teeth, including sweets, candy, bread, cereal, fruit juice, and soda
  • Live somewhere without fluoride in the water supply

Cavity Treatments for Kids

If your child has a cavity, treatment can prevent tooth loss and the spread of decay. Cavity treatments typically require fillings. The dentist will remove the affected part of the tooth and fill the hole with a durable material such as resin or acrylic.

If a cavity gets too large, the dentist may need to remove the entire tooth and replace it with an artificial tooth called a crown. 

Steps to Prevent Cavities

You can take these steps to reduce the chance that your child will get cavities.

Start Cleaning Teeth Right Away

Clean your child’s first baby teeth with a soft piece of gauze as soon as you see them emerge. Help toddlers and preschoolers brush with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Supervise brushing and flossing until your child can clean teeth independently (at least 6 for most kids).

Emphasize Good Nutrition

Consider replacing fruit juice and soda with water to reduce the risk of cavities. Feeding your child a healthy diet with limited sugary snacks and sweets is also important.

You should also visit a pediatric dentist for cleanings and checkups every 6 months. Wilson Pediatric Dentistry provides comprehensive oral health care for children, including dental fillings in Greenville, NC. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for your kids so we can help you develop a strong cavity-prevention plan.

Learn Healthy Dental Hygiene From a Pediatric Dentist

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Dental hygiene is important for overall health, especially for children. If your kids start with a good foundation for oral health, they will carry these lessons into adulthood. Healthy dental hygiene will reduce or prevent many future oral problems including ulcers, gingivitis, or even root canals. Here are some tips on how to help your kids learn good teeth cleaning in Greenville, NC.

Learn Healthy Dental Hygiene From a Pediatric Dentist

Start at an Early Age

Kids learn very quickly as they grow, and visiting a dentist at an early age helps them to understand the importance of their teeth. It is advisable to visit a pediatric dentist and book regular visits with a kids dentist as soon as your child’s first tooth appears. 

 

If you have more than one child, it’s a great idea to take your kids for a teeth cleaning service at the same time. Try combining the visit with a fun family activity on the same day to positively reinforce the dental visit.

Regular Dental Visits

Most problems with children’s teeth can be prevented by regular dental visits. This allows your dentist to maintain your child’s baby teeth. On average, a child should visit the dentist at least ten times before starting kindergarten. If your child’s baby teeth are healthy from regular checkups, their adult teeth should develop without any problems.

Lead by Example

As a parent, you are the most important role model for your kids. They look up to you for guidance, and this extends to dental care. If you demonstrate to your child the right way to brush their teeth, they will copy you. Children need to build a routine as they grow and brushing your teeth with your children together is a fun and important way to teach them great dental habits.

Provide Healthy Substitutes

Everyone loves sugar. The problem is too much sugar can cause serious damage to teeth, especially in children. As a substitute, try using little bags of healthier fruit or raw vegetables for your kids. Fruits and vegetables will provide essential vitamins and minerals, which further improve their dental health.

 

Talk With Your Dentist

Your child’s dental health is as important as their physical health. Your friendly pediatric dentist is here to help your child build a firm foundation for a lifetime of bright smiles and good dental hygiene. We also provide extra tips and advice at Serving Greenville.

 

Contact us at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry to introduce your child to a lifetime of good dental hygiene and book a teeth cleaning service today.

5 Misconceptions About Brushing Your Teeth

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Brushing our teeth is essential for maintaining oral health. This is true for both adults and children. Unfortunately, there are plenty of harmful misconceptions regarding the practice of tooth-brushing. Let’s debunk these misunderstandings below to help you and your family form healthy, lasting habits.

 

  • If I brush my teeth regularly, I don’t have to worry about flossing.

 

This is simply not true. Even if you’re a pro at brushing your teeth, the truth is, a toothbrush can’t reach the spaces between your teeth where bits of food and other debris build up. This leads to plaque formation. Coupled with professional cleaning, flossing is an essential step in preventing and removing plaque.

 

  • The harder I brush my teeth, the cleaner they’ll be when I’m done.

 

Brushing your teeth too hard or with a hard-bristled toothbrush can actually wear away the natural protective enamel lining your teeth. Try not to apply too much pressure and make sure to regularly replace your toothbrush since the bristles will grow harder with continued use.

 

  • If I brush my teeth thoroughly before seeing a dentist, they won’t know I don’t brush often enough.

 

Not brushing your teeth regularly enough causes tartar and plaque buildup in those sensitive, hard-to-reach places. Your dentist will be able to see this even if you can’t, and the buildup may also lead to inflammation in your gums causing them to bleed when you brush or when your dentist cleans your teeth.

 

  • If I don’t eat a lot of sugar, I don’t need to worry about brushing my teeth.

 

Although sugar is one of the main culprits behind cavity formation and tooth decay, many sugar-free foods and beverages are known to wear away your teeth and/or lead to bad breath. Brushing is your first defense for preventing both. Learn more about our cavity treatments and other services here.

 

  • Chewing-gum and mints are good replacements for teeth-brushing

 

This is false. While chewing-gums and mints are often used to keep your breath fresh, they do nothing to remove debris from between your teeth or to help prevent decay. What provides real, lasting help is proper oral hygiene. Regular brushing is essential in preventing bad breath and for maintaining a healthy, bright smile.

Avoiding these 5 misconceptions about dental care makes all the difference. Now you may help your family start forming those healthy teeth care habits that dentists love. For more information and to get your children started off on the right foot with their dental health, please contact us or schedule your appointment online.

Why You Should Schedule Regular Dental Checkups for Your Kids

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

With homework, play, and exploring to do, your kids don’t have a lot of time to think about taking care of their teeth. That’s where your local Wilson, North Carolina, pediatric dentist comes in. An experienced pediatric dentist can help your children navigate their dental development with healthy smiles.

Here are a few reasons why regular dental checkups are necessary for kids of any age.

Why You Should Schedule Regular Dental Checkups With Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Baby Teeth Matter More Than You Think

Why bother taking care of baby teeth if they’re only going to fall out in a few years? We hear this question all the time at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry. Although baby teeth do eventually fall out, their health can play a large impact on the wellness of the incoming secondary teeth.

Baby teeth, also called primary teeth, serve as placeholders for permanent teeth. If a child loses a primary tooth too early, either to decay or injury, the primary tooth may shift and come out in the wrong position.

Regular dental checkups can prevent the premature loss of primary teeth and mitigate the effects when it does happen.

Different Ages, Different Goals

To contrast the dental maintenance performed by most general dentists, pediatric dentists have unique goals for their young patients: prevention, development, and habit-building.

Prevention

A good pediatric dentist can prevent most dental issues and the stress and pain that comes with them. When we see your child for regular checkups, we can spot and diagnose the problems your child can’t notice themselves and suggest treatments or behaviors to keep them from worsening.

Development

Childhood is also the heaviest stage of dental change. Whether their first set of teeth are coming in or falling out to make room for permanent teeth, kids’ mouths are constantly developing. Pediatric dentists are uniquely qualified to monitor this development and intervene if necessary.

Habit-Building

Seeing a dentist regularly and often also helps children develop healthy dental habits. Pediatric dentists like Dr. Elmore help create dental plans that help kids get accustomed to tooth-healthy foods and home care. Even getting into the routine of seeing a dentist twice a year is setting important behaviors in place during the most formative years.

Schedule Your Child’s Checkup With Your Local Wilson Pediatric Dentist

Looking for an experienced pediatric dentist in Wilson for your child? Dr. Elmore and the team at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry have been keeping kids’ teeth looking and feeling their best for years. Schedule an appointment or contact us at (252) 291-4300.