Category: Pediatric Dentist

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. 

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.

Handling Dental Emergencies: A Guide For Parents

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric Dentistry  

Dental emergencies can be a source of anxiety for children and parents alike, so knowing how to handle these situations will not only give you confidence but also convey confidence to your distressed child. The expertise of a pediatric dentist in Greenville is crucial during these times, and Wilson Dental is there to support you and provide comprehensive care for your little ones.

Recognizing the Signs of a Dental Emergency

Toothaches

Toothaches can range from mild discomfort to throbbing pain and may signal issues such as cavities, infections, or gum disease. If your child complains of persistent pain, it’s crucial to contact us immediately. Rinsing with warm water and using a cold compress can provide temporary relief.

Broken, Chipped, or Knocked-Out Teeth

A broken or chipped tooth can become a serious problem if left untreated, possibly leading to infection or further damage. A knocked-out tooth requires immediate attention—time is critical for successful re-implantation. If this happens, find the tooth, hold it by the crown, and gently rinse it without scrubbing. Keep it in a milk container or your child’s saliva until you can reach an emergency pediatric dentist.

Bleeding Gums or Loose Teeth

Bleeding after a fall or an accident, especially when accompanied by loose teeth, needs immediate evaluation. While some bleeding might occur with new teeth or from a minor injury, excessive and continuous bleeding warrants an urgent visit to your emergency dentist in Greenville.

How Fast Should I Seek Help From Wilson Pediatrics?

When You Need to Act Quickly

If your child experiences severe pain, has a fever or swelling in the mouth or face, or has sustained an injury to the mouth or teeth, it’s crucial to seek emergency dental care. At Wilson Dental, we can provide prompt and effective treatment to alleviate pain and address the issue.

When You Can Monitor and Wait

Some dental issues, while uncomfortable, can wait for a scheduled appointment. Mild tooth sensitivity, small chips without pain, or a lost filling typically don’t constitute an emergency. However, we encourage you to call us so we can advise you on the next steps and schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience.

Be Prepared for the Future

Be prepared for dental emergencies by keeping a small dental first aid kit that includes our contact information, saline solution, gauze, a small container with a lid, and over-the-counter pain relief.

Your Partners in Pediatric Dental Care

Your child’s oral health is our top priority at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry. We are more than just your emergency pediatric dentist; we aim to be a partner in maintaining your child’s dental health. If you’re unsure whether your child is experiencing a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Contact Wilson Pediatric Dentistry right away.

Common Dental Issues in Children and How a Pediatric Dentist Can Help

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry


 
Teaching children healthy dental hygiene at a young age is important to promote oral health and prevent the most common dental issues. Yet, even with regular brushing and a healthy lifestyle, children can face dental issues that require a pediatric dentist or an emergency dentist in Greenville for proper care. If your child needs a cavity filling in Greenville, NC, disking, or another dental treatment, you’ll need someone you can trust to care for their teeth.

Dental issues are more common in adults than children, but that doesn’t mean they’re nonexistent. Some of the most common dental issues that affect children include cavities, otherwise known as tooth decay, crowding, misalignment, or losing a tooth too early.

At Wilson Pediatric Dentistry, we offer treatments that can address and correct these issues. Our emergency dentist is also available to provide emergency care to pediatric patients with a dental emergency.

Treating Cavities

Cavities are a form of tooth decay common among children, including those who live a healthy lifestyle and consume a limited amount of sugar. Forty-two percent of children get cavities between two and 11 years of age. If your child has a cavity, they must receive a cavity filling in Greenville, NC, to stop and prevent further decay and restore a uniform appearance to the truth.

One way to prevent cavities is by applying sealants to the back teeth, the most common chewing surfaces. When applied to the back molars, this thin plastic layer creates a protective barrier on the tooth that can help prevent decay in those areas that are harder to clean with a toothbrush.

Treating Overcrowding With Disking

Overcrowding is a common issue among children as they lose baby teeth, and permanent teeth replace those baby teeth. Sometimes, there isn’t enough room for the incoming permanent teeth, which can increase the risk of cavities or cause alignment issues, also increasing the potential need for future orthodontic care.

This treatment involves shaving off very thin layers of the surrounding teeth to make extra room for incoming permanent teeth to prevent misalignment and reduce the need for braces or other orthodontic treatments.

Treating Premature Tooth Loss

Children must lose baby teeth to make room for permanent teeth, but sometimes, they lose them sooner than they should. As a result, the surrounding teeth can become misaligned as they come in, requiring future orthodontic care. There’s a simple way to treat this issue: with space maintainers. Space maintainers are designed to maintain the necessary space for the incoming new tooth to promote alignment.

Treating Crooked Teeth

Misalignment is one of the most common dental issues that affect children and teenagers alike. There’s an easy way to address misalignment, and it begins with proper early orthodontic care from a dentist in Greenville, NC. Children can achieve and maintain straighter teeth by taking steps to promote alignment early on. Early orthodontic treatment plans can be designed for children as young as six years old.

Regular pediatric dental care is key to maintaining healthy teeth and promoting a beautiful smile. Whether your child suffers from a minor or more severe pediatric dental issue or needs an emergency dentist in Greenville, we can design a treatment plan that promotes optimal oral health. Contact us today at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry to learn more about our treatments and to schedule an appointment.

Benefits of Dental Disking

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Oral Health
When a child’s permanent teeth come through, it can lead to crowding in the mouth and misalignment. No one wants such an exciting and momentous occasion to be ruined by these concerns, but luckily, there is a sophisticated way to correct them and leave teeth looking straight. It’s called disking: a method of finely shaving existing teeth so that there’s space for new ones. It’s now available at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry.

 

Benefits of Dental Disking

How Does This Treatment Work?

During this procedure, one of our trained dentists will carefully shave down the existing teeth of the patient to make more space for the incoming tooth. This will involve shaving either one or both of the teeth next to the new tooth. 

 

Because only the enamel is being touched, it’s a painless procedure and is very suitable for children. Our dentist can determine if this treatment is worthwhile using a Dental X-ray during a regular dental exam.

 

Why Should I Consider This Treatment for My Child?

By treating overcrowding and misalignment early, you may avoid orthodontic work down the road. Solutions such as braces become necessary when teeth are not straight, or too close together. Not only can braces be an uncomfortable and drawn-out process for your child, but they can be incredibly expensive. 

 

This treatment is often covered by insurance, which again makes it a great option for wallet-conscious parents. Check with your insurance provider to see if pediatric dentistry procedures are covered.

 

Is This Treatment Right for My Child?

Our experienced kids’ dentist in Greenville, NC, will be able to determine if this treatment is the best course of action or if there is an alternate technique that might be better suited to your child. For example, if they have lost a baby tooth prematurely, space maintainers may be recommended. These devices ensure existing teeth remain far enough apart so that there’s space for new teeth. If effective, space maintainers may negate the need for the shaving of teeth down the road.

Simple, cost-effective, and almost pain-free, disking can be an extremely potent way to correct a child’s teeth, leaving them with a healthy, hearty smile. Schedule an appointment with our local pediatric dentist in Greenville, NC. We are an ideal destination for treating all kinds of oral health concerns, as well as offering services like X-rays, emergency procedures, and even early orthodontic treatments. Your child should be visiting a dentist from as early as one-year-old, so come by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry today.

Why Pediatric Dentists Outshine Regular Dentists

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Used Cars

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.

 

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.

Appropriate Age for Children’s Dental Exams

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Protecting a child’s health is important to all parents, and one crucial element of achieving that goal is good dental hygiene practices. But when should you bring your child in for their first dental check-up? Read on for the answer to that question and to learn about the benefits of visiting a pediatric dentist.

Appropriate Age for Children’s Dental Exams

Your child should come in for their first check-up with a dentist when they are 12 months old or within six months of their first tooth growing in. This will help catch any problems early so they can be treated accordingly before they grow any more severe. Your child’s first visit will be quick, typically taking a half hour and 45 minutes.

Benefits of Good Dental Hygiene

Healthier Teeth and Gums

The most apparent benefit of coming in for regular check-ups is protecting the health of your child’s teeth and gums. Your child will be protected from tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental health issues. Because these problems can worsen if left untreated, keeping up with your child’s dental health visits is essential.

Uninterrupted Learning

When a child has a cavity or other dental issue, it might involve missing school to treat the problem or recover from a procedure. This can lead to the child falling behind on their education and coursework. Children with good dental hygiene typically miss less school than those with poor dental hygiene.

Greater Confidence

Along with the tangible benefits of good dental hygiene, the benefits it has for your child’s outlook, and self-esteem can’t be ignored. A smile they can feel good about will work wonders for your child’s confidence. This will allow them to approach any challenge they face in life feeling ready to overcome it. 

Find a Pediatric Dentist Near You

Want to learn more about maintaining your child’s hygiene to keep their teeth healthy? We have the resources you need to educate yourself about your child’s dental health needs. Visit Wilson Pediatric Dentistry today to learn more about our services.

When Can Your Child Receive Braces After a Cavity Filling?

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

A child’s dental health is vital to their overall well-being, which is why parents have a responsibility to provide them with cavity filling treatment, orthodontic treatment, and anything else they might require. But if your child is in need of treatment and has had fillings put in before, you may be wondering if it’s possible to install braces afterward. Read our guide to learn everything you need to know about kids’ braces and how they affect fillings.

A child can safely receive braces immediately after having a filling put in to treat a cavity so long as those fillings are in good condition. While braces provide excellent results when it comes to the straightening of teeth, there are still other dental concerns to keep in mind. Fillings help to amend damage done by tooth decay so that your child can enjoy a healthy smile and avoid the pain that can result from an untreated cavity.

In fact, it’s best to have any cavities filled before braces are put in. Braces can obstruct access to various areas of the mouth, making putting in a filling after the braces have been installed quite difficult. Your child’s orthodontic specialist can assess the situation and develop a plan that will work best for their needs.

Will Kids’ Braces Affect a Cavity Filling?

As long as any fillings that are present are in good shape at the time that an orthodontic device is installed, the braces won’t cause any harm to them. The precise process used to install the braces will ensure that no damage is done to the fillings. An orthodontic expert will assess the quality of the fillings before installing braces to ensure that they’re in the quality condition they need to be to hold up throughout the process.

Get the Orthodontic Treatment Your Child Needs

Our team of experts is standing by to help your child maintain their dental health. We’ll treat you with the courtesy and respect you deserve through every step of the process. Contact Wilson Pediatric Dentistry for all your early orthodontic care needs or to find out about the children’s braces we offer.

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.

Sparing Your Kids’ Teeth from Halloween Candy

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Sparing Your Kids’ Teeth from Halloween Candy

You might expect that a dentist will tell you to keep your kids away from all Halloween candy to help protect their teeth. While avoiding candy is generally a good idea, we understand that it is not always practical. If you want to let your children enjoy this fun holiday while sparing their teeth, we can help. The following pediatric dentistry tips will ensure your kids’ teeth (and your own) make it through Halloween strong and healthy.

Keep the Sweets in Moderation

Enjoying candy and other sweet foods is fine as long as it is done in moderation. Just like your stomach may feel sick after over-indulging in candy, your teeth can also experience problems when exposed to constant candy. Picking out just a couple pieces of candy per day will not only let you enjoy it for longer, but will help to keep your teeth strong.

Choose the Right Candies

When it comes to oral care, not all candies are the same. It is a good idea to keep your kids away from sticky and chewy candy like taffy because it tends to get trapped between teeth. It is difficult for anyone, especially kids, to remove this type of candy – even with brushing. Another type of candy to avoid is hard candies and suckers since they remain in your mouth for extended periods of time.

Candies that you can enjoy quickly and then easily rinse away (with water or brushing) are ideal. Great examples of this will include chocolates, peanut butter cups, and other similar items.

Make Sure to Brush After Enjoying Candy

When you are finished with your candy for the day, make sure to brush your teeth as soon as possible. Even if it isn’t part of your normal brushing routine, this will help to remove all the sugar from your mouth so bacteria and acids do not develop and cause damage to your teeth.

Schedule a Cleaning Today

One of the best things you can do to make sure your kid’s teeth are kept strong and healthy is to schedule them for regular cleanings at your dentist. We can help provide a deep cleaning that goes beyond what brushing can do. We will also look for signs of cavities, gum disease, and other issues so they can be addressed as early as possible. Finally, we can offer additional tips and advice specifically for your child to help them learn better oral care. We offer pediatric dentistry in Greenville,schedule an appointment today.