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When should my child first see a pediatric dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a pediatric dentist see your children by their first birthday.
Why should you choose a specialist in pediatric dentistry?
You child’s initial experience with a pediatric dentist establishes a positive foundation that has life-long dental and psychological benefits.
Does my family dentist have to refer my child to a pediatric dentist?
No, it’s not required. Although family dentists or pediatricians refer some of our patients, many parents take the initiative in scheduling their child’s examination on their own.
What is the age limit for my children to be seen by a pediatric dentist?
Most of our patients are seen into their late teens and early adulthood. Our pediatric practice caters to children from infancy through adolescence.
How can a pediatric dentist work with an apprehensive child?
The pediatric dentists on our team have received specialized training in behavioral management of young children. They use a variety of calming techniques that decrease stress and help your children relax.
What is preventive dentistry?
Our office prides itself in promoting dental health by providing comprehensive measures that prevent dental problems from arising. These include protective coatings (sealants), Fluoride treatments, diet analysis, hygiene, and preventive orthodontic treatment.
I’ve heard about “The Wand?” What is it?
Knowing that some patients are afraid of traditional anesthesia, Dr. Keri provides patients with a convenient solution known as “The Wand.” A computerized anesthetic, it is controlled by a small computer microprocessor that releases a steady flow of anesthetic in regular intervals. This technology helps eliminate pain and result in minimal--if any--discomfort.
WHY DO CHILDREN SUCK ON FINGERS, PACIFIERS OR OTHER OBJECTS?
This type of sucking is completely normal for babies and young children. It provides security. For young babies, it’s a way to make contact with and learn about the world. In fact, babies begin to suck on their fingers and thumbs even before they are born.
ARE THESE HABITS BAD FOR THE TEETH AND JAW?
Most children stop sucking on thumbs, pacifiers and other objects on their own between 2 and 4 years of age. No harm is done to their teeth or jaws. However, some children repeatedly suck on a finger, pacifier or other object over long periods of time. In these children, the upper front teeth may tip toward the lip or not come in properly.
WHEN SHOULD I WORRY ABOUT A SUCKING HABIT?
Our doctors will carefully watch the way your child’s teeth come in and jaws develop, keeping the sucking habit in mind at all times. For most children there is no reason to worry about a sucking habit until the permanent front teeth are ready to come in.
WHAT CAN I DO TO STOP MY CHILD’S HABIT?
Most children stop sucking habits on their own, but some children need the help of their parents and their pediatric dentist. When your child is old enough to understand the possible results of a sucking habit, Dr. Keri and our staff can encourage your child to stop, as well as talk about what happens to the teeth if your child doesn’t stop. This advice, coupled with support from parents, helps most children quit. If this approach doesn’t work, Dr. Keri and our staff may recommend a mouth appliance to block sucking habits.
ARE PACIFIERS A SAFER HABIT FOR THE TEETH THAN THUMBS OR FINGERS?
Thumb, finger and pacifier sucking all affect the teeth essentially the same way. However, a pacifier habit is often easier to break.
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