Category: Dental Treatments

Why Pediatric Dentists Outshine Regular Dentists

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

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When it comes to your child’s dental care, you may wonder if it’s necessary to seek out a pediatric dentist instead of a regular dentist. Let’s explore the key differences that make a pediatric dentist in Greenville, NC, the ideal choice for your little one.

 

Pediatric Dentists: The Right Choice For Kids

 

Additional Training and Expertise

Pediatric dentists undergo rigorous training beyond dental school, focusing specifically on children’s unique dental needs. They acquire in-depth knowledge of child development, including oral growth and behavior management techniques. They are equipped to address the changing needs of young patients. 

 

Knowledge of Child Development

Dentists who study pediatrics understand that children’s dental needs evolve as they grow. They possess the expertise to anticipate and address these changes, ensuring that your child’s dental care is always tailored to their specific stage of development. By considering factors such as teething, thumb-sucking habits, and the eruptions of permanent teeth, they offer tailored solutions to support healthy dental development.

 

Child-Centered Approach

These professionals prioritize creating a friendly and welcoming environment that puts children at ease. They know how to communicate with young patients effectively, using easily understandable language and explanations. By fostering a positive and comfortable dental experience, they help children develop a lifelong appreciation for oral health.

 

Specialized Equipment

Dentists specializing in pediatrics have an arsenal of tools specifically designed for children’s dental care. From smaller instruments to gentle x-ray techniques, these professionals ensure that your child receives the most accurate diagnosis and the least discomfort during procedures.

 

Strong Communication Skills

Pediatric dentists excel in connecting with both children and parents, explaining procedures and addressing any concerns or questions. Their ability to build rapport and establish trust helps create a positive dental experience for the child and a sense of reassurance for parents.

 

Better Results

 

Early Detection

Pediatric dentists have a keen eye for detecting even the subtlest hints of dental problems. Their thorough examinations encompass a comprehensive evaluation of teeth, gums, and overall oral health.

 

Early Intervention

By detecting and addressing dental issues early on, dentists specializing in pediatrics can intervene promptly when necessary. They can address oral habits like thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, or pacifier use that can impact dental development. 

 

Early Prevention

Prevention is always better than cure, and these specialists focus on educating both children and parents about proper oral hygiene practices. They teach children to brush and floss effectively, instilling good habits from an early age. Additionally, they offer preventative treatments like dental sealants and fluoride applications to protect your child’s teeth from decay.

 

By choosing a dentist specializing in pediatrics, you’re giving your child the advantage of focused care, early detection, intervention, and prevention, in a positive environment.  Please make an appointment with Wilson Pediatric Dentistry today, and together, let’s ensure that your child’s smile shines brightly for years to come.

 

Will Cavity Treatment Prevent a Root Canal?

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Children’s teeth are constantly bombarded by harmful substances that wear down tooth enamel and cause damage. Children tend to develop cavities, especially around the holidays. Without cavity treatment, these small recesses could lead to bigger issues. In the most serious cases, pediatric root canal treatment might be necessary. While the best course of action is to prevent cavities altogether, a cavity filling can prevent further damage to your child’s teeth.

 

Can Cavity Fillings Prevent Root Canal Issues?

Cavities Can Lead to Pediatric Root Canal Treatment

Cavities are a form of permanent tooth damage. Simple cavities break through the outer layer, the enamel. These cavities may not demonstrate any symptoms until they penetrate down to the dentin, the inner layer. However, cavities trap food and bacteria inside, which can lead to an infection deeper in the tooth. When this happens, a root canal may be necessary. A cavity filling is recommended to stop damage from spreading to this point.

 

Root canals are required when an infection develops in the pulp of the tooth. These infections cannot be treated with antibiotics as they’re too deep for medications to penetrate. Fortunately, root canals today are easy to perform and won’t cause significant pain, but we would prefer to avoid more serious treatments entirely by treating cavities as soon as they’re spotted.

 

Effective Cavity Treatments

When it comes to treating cavities, the best approach is a filling. Depending on the location of the cavity, your dentist might recommend different types of filling. The most expensive options are gold and porcelain, which are generally only recommended for adult teeth.

 

For baby teeth, amalgam fillings are preferred since they are more affordable. Another option are composite resin fillings. These appear more natural, but don’t last as long as they can also be stained like regular teeth. For baby teeth that won’t be there much longer, they’re a good option to consider. Your pediatric dentist will recommend the best type of filling given the situation.

 

Preventing Cavities Prevents Root Canals

The best approach is to be proactive and prevent cavities from forming in the first place. With no cavities, there won’t be any need to worry about treating them or potentially needing a root canal. Even if your child is a diligent tooth brusher, it’s important to come in for regular teeth cleaning. Not only does this reduce the chances of developing a cavity in the first place, but it also helps spot minor cavities before they become bigger problems.

 

If your child has been complaining about a tooth or hasn’t had a cleaning in some time, schedule an appointment with Wilson Pediatric Dentistry in Greenville, NC today.

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.

Teeth-Healthy Snacks Your Kids Will Love (Great for Teeth Cleaning & Health!)

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

You already know that calcium is great for strong teeth and bones…but how can you effectively get that into your kid’s diet and teeth-cleaning routine? If you’ve been looking for new ways to enhance your child’s diet and get some extra teeth-friendly benefits, we’ve got you covered. The snack ideas in this list not only save you a few extra trips to the pediatric dentist, but they’ll also get some extra midday teeth cleaning done – leaving your child with a fresh and healthy smile. 

 

Read on for our full list of snacks to protect your child’s oral health.

 

Best Teeth-Friendly Snacks for Oral Health According to a Pediatric Dentist

Looking for snack inspiration? You’re in the right place! Read on for our full list of smile-friendly snacks. 

 

1. Crispy & Crunchy Fruit or Vegetable Sticks 

They can be sweet, they can be savory, and they’re all around delicious. These healthy snack options are inexpensive, rich in nutrition, and are fantastic when paired with your child’s favorite dip or spread. Crunchy veggies and fruits offer additional teeth-specific benefits, too, giving your child’s teeth a quick brush effect. They’re also usually rich in Vitamin A & keratin for healthier enamel and less overall plaque. 

 

2. Dairy-Based Snacks 

This entry on the list likely isn’t a surprise! Cottage cheese, string cheese, plain milk, and other dairy items are great for your teeth. They are rich in both Vitamin D and calcium, which strengthens bone health. Just be sure to brush after, though, as they can also have sugars that sit on the surface of your tooth’s delicate enamel. 

 

3. Watermelon 

Watermelon is an overlooked snack suggestion for oral health, but it shouldn’t be! It’s incredibly high in antioxidants that can fight free radical damage and bacterial overgrowth in your mouth. If eaten in a high enough quantity, it can also support your body’s hydration – promoting healthy levels of bacteria-fighting saliva. 

 

4. Chicken, Eggs, and Beef 

Whether your child enjoys hamburgers, chicken nuggets, or huevos rancheros, all of these protein-heavy ingredients are great for supporting healthy enamel and bone density. Looking to go the extra mile & make your meal even healthier? Pair these once-in-awhile favorites with your child’s favorite veggie- or fruit-based side dish. 

 

Top Rated Teeth Cleaning & Pediatric Dentist in Greenville, NC 

Curious about your child’s oral health? Book a teeth cleaning today at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry! Our team of dental experts have been working exclusively with pediatric patients, offering them the emotional support and strategies they need for effective teeth cleaning &  lifelong healthy smile habits. For more information and to book your appointment today, please give us a call at (252) 291-4300. 

Unexpected Causes of Tooth Decay in Children

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Everyone knows candy, soda, and other sugary sweets are some of the main cavity culprits for children. But there are a number of unexpected causes of tooth decay for which many people are unaware. Below we take a look at some of the lesser known causes of cavities and tooth decay in children. 

Milk

Milk is a double-edged sword as it relates to tooth health. On the one hand, milk is full of calcium and other minerals that strengthen and repair tooth enamel. On the other hand, milk contains lactose, which is a type of sugar. As the lactose is broken down, it produces acid that can cause tooth decay. 

Fruit 

Fruit is a healthy and recommended snack for kids. But fruit, particularly citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits and tangerines, contain citric acid that can eat away at enamel and leave teeth vulnerable to cavities. 

Bread

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are a popular item on a kid’s lunch menu. While bread itself does not contain much sugar, it does contain a lot of starch. When you eat bread, your saliva breaks down the starch into simple sugar that sticks in the crevices of your teeth and exposes them to the produced sugar. 

Ice  

If you put ice in a kid’s drink, they’ll probably chew it. Chewing on hard substances, on the other hand, can wear away the protective enamel, leaving teeth prone to disease, as well as chips, cracks, and other damage.

Cereal

Cereal is loved by children, but not by their teeth. A lot of cereals marketed toward children are high in sugar, and a child consuming just an average serving per day for a year would consume more than 10 pounds of sugar with some cereals.

 

Schedule Your Child’s Cavity Treatment in Greenville, NC

Stop tooth decay before it starts by scheduling regular checkups and cleanings for your child. If they do get a cavity, our pediatric dentists can help them get the cavity treatment they need to heal tooth rot and restore their smiles.

Schedule your appointment today and ask our team about other causes of tooth decay and how you can keep your child’s teeth safe from harm. 

How to Treat Your Child’s Tooth Pain

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

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We all know how uncomfortable it can be dealing with tooth pain, and it can be even more painful watching your child go through the experience.  

 

If a young one in your household is experiencing tooth pain, there are some home remedies you can try that may alleviate the pain until you can schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist. 

 

Treating Tooth Pain

Losing a tooth naturally typically does not hurt, but it can be painful when the new tooth is growing in. Tooth pain can also be caused by decay, fillings, cracks and chips, and even sinus problems. 

 

Below are some ways to treat your child’s tooth pain until they can be seen by our team. 

 

Saltwater rinse

Salt water is a natural disinfectant that can help loosen food particles that may be stuck between teeth and causing pain. It can help heal oral wounds and reduce inflammation too! Mix a half teaspoon of table salt with warm water and have your child rinse their mouth just like they would with mouthwash. 

 

Cold compress

A cold compress causes blood vessels to constrict which can reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain. Fill a plastic bag with ice and then wrap in a towel and hold it against the affected area in 20-minute intervals, repeated every few hours as needed. 

 

Vanilla extract

The alcohol in vanilla extract can bring immediate relief to a sore tooth. Just place a few drops of the extract on a cotton swab and apply gently to the affected area. And don’t worry, the alcohol is safe for treating tooth pain in children when used in moderation under adult supervision and is even great for teething babies. 

 

Garlic   

Garlic has been used as a tooth pain remedy for thousands of years. Crush a garlic clove into a paste and apply to the affected area or have your child chew on a fresh clove, careful not to overdo it on size.

 

See a Pediatric Dentist in Greenville, NC

If the pain persists, you may need to have your child see an emergency pediatric dentist. Schedule your appointment or contact us at (252) 291-4300. We offer same-day pediatric emergency care and can take the necessary steps to quickly diagnose the problem, administer the proper treatment, and alleviate your child’s pain.

Pediatric Teeth Correction: Your FAQs Answered

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Knowing what pediatric dentistry treatments are right for your child can be tricky, especially when it comes to teeth correction or early orthodontic procedures. To help guide your decisions, read our answers to your frequently asked questions on pediatric teeth correction.

What You Need to Know About Pediatric Teeth Straightening

Q: How do you know if you should consider teeth correction for your child?

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, you should start bringing your child in to the dentist for regular check-ups when their first tooth comes in — and definitely by their first birthday. Given this information, you should consult your pediatric dentist when it comes to teeth correction options, usually when their permanent teeth start coming in.

 

People will often consult their dentist about teeth straightening if their child has crooked, overlapping or overcrowded teeth. This is especially important to discuss if your child still has some of their baby teeth, as misaligned teeth can make it difficult for permanent teeth to come in correctly.

Q: Will my child’s teeth straighten out on their own?

While your child’s teeth may straighten out on their own, this is not always the case. It is less likely to happen if the crooked teeth make it difficult for other permanent teeth to come in correctly.

Q: When should you bring your child in for their first orthodontic screening?

To be on the safe side, you should bring your child in for their first orthodontic screening when they’re 6-7 years old. By age 7, most kids’ permanent molars have come in. This gives your pediatric dentist time to identify any issues early and proceed accordingly.

Q: What age should you consider braces for your child?

You’ll want to consider braces for your child when they’re between 10-14 years old. During this timeframe, your kid’s head and mouth are still growing, which makes their teeth easier to straighten out.

Schedule an Appointment at Your Local Pediatric Dentist

Learn about our pediatric teeth correction in Wilson, NC, and schedule an appointment today. We’re conveniently located near Greenville, Rocky Mount, and Knightdale.

What Treatments Are Available at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry?

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric Dentistry

At Wilson Pediatric Dentistry, we know how important your child’s dental health is. That’s why our services are tailored to your child and are designed to help ensure the healthy development of your little ones’ teeth.

Here’s a look at the pediatric dental treatments we offer.

7 of Our Available Pediatric Dentistry Services

Exams and cleaning

We go beyond the traditional dental exam and teeth cleaning to ensure your child’s teeth are developing as they should be. We keep a close eye on this, in addition to using fluoride treatments designed to help strengthen teeth and prevent decay.

Sealant

This procedure involves the application of dental sealant on your child’s teeth. Sealant helps protect your kid’s teeth from bacteria and prevent cavities.

Cavity treatment

If your child does get a cavity, we can help. This procedure involves removing the affected part of the tooth and then replacing the area with cavity filling. In rare cases, when the decay is very severe, a dental crown may be needed.

Disking

Disking helps ensure your child’s teeth have room to grow. If a tooth does not appear to have space to grow in the mouth, we will shave off a thin layer from the surrounding teeth. This leaves room for that permanent tooth to grow without becoming crooked or misaligned.

Space maintainers

If your child loses a tooth early, they may need space maintainers. These are custom-fit, removable appliances that ensure the teeth surrounding the gap do not come in crooked or misaligned.

Dental x-rays

X-rays allow the dentist to see any issues with your child’s teeth that may not be easily apparent. Consult the dentist for more information on when these x-rays should be considered for your kid.

Early orthodontics

Interceptive orthodontics help prevent the need for orthodontia later in life. This should be considered when your kid’s permanent teeth start coming in, as early orthodontic care is designed to help ensure these teeth come in correctly.

Schedule a Dental Appointment Today

In addition to the treatments noted above, our dental practice offers emergency care services. For routine dental exams and other select procedures, our team offers the option of general anesthesia for children with severe dental anxiety. Our staff is happy to walk you through your options for this service.

Make sure your child has a positive dental experience from the very start by choosing a kids pediatric dentistry. If you live in the Greenville or Rocky Mount, North Carolina, area, Wilson Pediatric Dentistry is the premier pediatric dentist near you.

Learn more about possible dental treatments to consider for your child here.

Preventing Dental Anxiety With Sedation and Anesthesia

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Anesthesia Procedures at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

If your child is apprehensive about the dentist even before they’re asked to open wide, then it’s worth knowing what kind of anesthesia procedures your dentist offers. The most common anesthetic used in dentistry is nitrous oxide, sometimes called laughing gas. It works quickly and leaves the body before your child is out of the chair.

At Wilson Pediatric Dentistry, we want all of our patients to feel at ease. You’ll find an explanation of when and how we use anesthesia below.

When General Anesthesia Is the Best Option

The professionals at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry can use nitrous oxide for a dental exam, a cavity fill, and other procedures.

Bigger procedures such as filling multiple cavities, placing a crown, or emergency dental work require more time and may require general anesthesia for your child’s relaxation and safety. It’s very difficult for a child to sit in a dental chair for hours, even if they don’t have anxiety. Your dentist can do more work quickly without the risk of your child jerking or becoming inconsolable.

If we agree that anesthesia is the best option for your child, we will do a physical evaluation, discuss any medications your child takes and make sure they don’t have breathing issues. We’ll also give you a clear understanding of how to prepare your child, what happens during the procedure and what to expect after.

Important Facts About Anesthesia at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Before using anesthesia for your child, we’ll answer all your questions. These are a few things to know upfront:

  • General anesthesia is administered via IV in our office.
  • A parent or guardian must be present for the entire procedure.
  • You’ll receive detailed instructions about food and liquids prior to the procedure.
  • We’ll watch your child in the office until the effects are minimal.
  • Your child will need close observation at home until all effects have passed.

If you’d like to discuss sedation or general anesthesia before coming in, please call us. You can also schedule an appointment at our office in Wilson, NC, serving Greenville & Rocky Mount, and we’ll determine what best meets your child’s needs.

Why Are Fluoride Treatments Important for Young Teeth?

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

little girl at a pediatric dentist getting fluoride treatment

At Wilson Pediatric Dentistry, fluoride treatments are a regular part of dental exams and cleanings. Most children receive anywhere from two to four treatments a year. Why? Because fluoride plays an important role in making sure your child’s teeth are strong and healthy all throughout childhood and into adulthood.

Keep reading to learn more.

The Importance of Fluoride for Your Kids

What Are Fluoride Treatments?

Fluoride is a natural mineral found in water all around the world. It’s also used to fortify public drinking water and some foods and other beverages. But a fluoride treatment at the dentist’s office is a little different.

During a treatment, the dentist will paint a small amount of fluoride onto the child’s teeth. The fluoride will quickly harden in place, and any excess is usually brushed off later that day to ensure that almost none is swallowed by the child.

After the fluoride is applied, it becomes part of the tooth’s outer layer, the enamel, to help strengthen it. When combined with good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, fluoride does a great deal to support dental health.

The Benefits of Fluoride Treatments

According to the American Dental Association, fluoride is a safe, effective way to prevent tooth decay. Since kids tend to consume a lot of sugar, tooth enamel erodes over time and can eventually lead to cavities.

About 27.9% of all children aged two to five and 51.17% of all kids aged six to 11 will get a cavity during childhood. However, by strengthening the tooth enamel, fluoride can help prevent, slow down, and even reverse decay.

Even though baby teeth fall out, childhood cavities can still lead to problems in adulthood. One reason why is because tooth decay may cause the baby teeth to fall out too soon, leaving an empty gap. Neighboring teeth can begin to shift, moving into the empty spot and causing misalignment of incoming adult teeth.

With regular fluoride treatments, it’s possible to minimize cavities and ensure good oral health for today and tomorrow.

Schedule a Visit at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry Today

Interested in learning more about fluoride treatments in Wilson, North Carolina? Visit Wilson Pediatric Dentistry for a consultation and meet our team.

With offices located in Wilson, Rocky Mount, and Kenly, North Carolina, our dentists are committed to instilling good oral health in kids all throughout the area. Schedule a cleaning for your child today.

How to Make Cavities Easy to Understand for Your Child

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

mother explaining cavities to her son

 

As your child ages, they will eventually start to take care of their own dental hygiene. An important part of encouraging good habits is making sure they’re informed about the benefits of taking care of their teeth. They also need to be made aware of the potential risks of poor care, and this includes cavities.

Cavities can be a frightening concept for young children, so you need to be careful when teaching your kids about them. Here are a few tips to make sure your kids know about cavities and what they can do to prevent them. For more ideas on how to explain dental care to kids, contact Wilson Pediatric Dentistry.

How to To Educate Your Kids on Cavities

Simplify

Kids may have a hard time understanding some of the dental jargon relating to cavities, and this confusion can turn into fear. Try explaining them using simpler terms that they can understand.

Tell your kids that in order to enjoy all the foods they love, they need to practice good dental care, too. Explain how brushing their teeth keeps their mouth healthy and can help prevent the formation of tiny holes in their teeth, called cavities. You might also remind them to take extra care of their teeth when they eat sugary and starchy foods.

Let your children know that the cavities hurt, but they can be fixed.

Teach, Don’t Scare

Making your children aware of cavities can help motivate them to take better care of their teeth, but using cavities as a looming threat to frighten your kids can backfire. Using scare tactics to promote good behavior can erode your child’s trust in you and traumatize them.

Be Honest

As a parent, you already know that children are inquisitive. They’re going to have lots of questions about cavities and what happens if you get one. Make sure to answer their questions honestly. If they’re curious, they’re going to find out the truth sometime. It’s better if they find out from you.

Teach Proactivity

Teach your child that taking care of their teeth and avoiding cavities is easy as long as they are consistent. Help them form strong dental care habits with positive reinforcement. Reminding them that they have the power to protect themselves from cavities, and they will be more likely to keep up with their dental hygiene routine.

Here are a few habits you should encourage:

  • Flossing once a day
  • Brushing twice a day, in the morning and again before bed
  • Limit sugary or starchy foods
  • Eating tooth-healthy foods

If Your Child Gets a Cavity

Finding out they have cavities can be terrifying for a child, and it is your job as a parent to make the ordeal easier. Let your kids know that some cavities can’t be avoided, no matter how much work you put in. You should also make sure your child knows that you aren’t mad or disappointed with them.

Make sure they are fully prepared for the filling process. Walk them through it step-by-step, working to make it sound less scary. Remind your child that even though the process may seem scary, it won’t be painful, and it will make them feel better.

Choosing a dentist experienced in making difficult procedures easy for kids can also help make the process better for your child. Dr. Elmore of Wilson Pediatric Dentistry gives each of her young patients gentle, compassionate care, making dental visits less scary. Schedule an appointment at our Wilson, North Carolina, office for more friendly pediatric dental care.