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Pediatric Dentistry FAQ

Your child’s teeth are of the utmost concern. Many parents have questions about common dental issues such as, “when do the baby teeth come in?”, or “when should my child’s first appointment be made?” Here are a few common dental health FAQ’s parents often ask.

When Should My Child’s First Visit Be?

Your child’s first visit to the pediatric dentist should occur when their first teeth erupt, around 6 months of age. Their first visit should occur before their first birthday, even if their first teeth have not come in yet.

How Often Should My Child See the Pediatric Dentist?
Your child should visit the pediatric dentist twice a year. This is important to keep their teeth and gums healthy, and also to identify any problems as early as possible. Your dental hygienist will be able to give you tips and tricks about how to keep your child’s teeth clean.
Should you have any concerns or questions between appointments, call Dr. Darryl Engel’s office to schedule an appointment.
Why Should My Child See a Pediatric Dentist?
A pediatric dentist has additional training in children’s dental health issues. They stay up to date on the newest children’s dental research and studies. Pediatric offices are designed to alleviate fears and concerns for both children and their parents.
How Should I Clean My Baby’s Teeth and Gums?
Good oral hygiene starts before your baby’s teeth even come in. You should use a warm, wet washcloth or a piece of gauze to wipe your baby’s gums after each feeding.

After your baby gets their first teeth, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the teeth. You should not use fluoride-based toothpaste until your child can spit on their own, around age 3. When children are ready for toothpaste, use a pea-sized amount. Monitor your child’s brushing to ensure they are not swallowing the toothpaste.
My Child Sucks Their Thumb, Will This Be a Problem?
Thumb sucking and prolonged pacifier use can cause crowding, crooked teeth, and bite problems. Although most children stop their sucking habits on their own, a pediatric dentist may recommend an appliance if the permanent teeth have started to come in.
Should My Child Get Sealants?
The molars, or back teeth, have pits and grooves that can trap food. Sealants are applied over these areas to prevent food from being stuck in the molars. This helps to prevent tooth decay in these teeth. Sealants are quick and easy to put on, and your child will not need to get numb. Children should avoid sticky candies to prevent the sealants from getting pulled off.
What is Baby Bottle Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay, usually occurring on the top front teeth, in babies and toddlers can be from baby bottle decay. This occurs when children are allowed to go to bed with a bottle of milk. Milk contains sugars which can rot the teeth. To prevent tooth decay, wipe the child’s teeth off after their nighttime bottle.
My Child Plays Sports. How Can I Protect His/Her Teeth?
If your child plays sports, you may be concerned about tooth trauma. A mouth guard can prevent sports injuries to the teeth. The best type of mouth guard is one that is customized for your child’s teeth. Your pediatric dentist can make a mouth guard for your child in the office.
Why Should Baby Teeth Be Fixed?
Baby teeth are important for the development of your child’s permanent teeth. If your child gets a cavity in a baby tooth, it is important to fix it right away. Tooth decay is actually an infection in the tooth. If allowed to grow, it can cause pain, abscesses, and can potentially spread to the permanent teeth underneath. If you notice a spot on any of your child’s teeth, call your pediatric dentist right away to schedule an appointment.
What Can I do to Help With Teething?
When a baby’s teeth come in, their gums can become sore and you may notice a change in their mood. Drooling also starts to become more pronounced. Sometimes babies can have a higher temperature than normal and have loose bowel movements. To help soothe your baby through this process, try a frozen teething ring or frozen waffle to have them chew on. You can also purchase a topical gel specifically to help ease baby’s gums.
What If My Child Gets a Toothache?
A toothache can signal a problem going on in the mouth, like a cavity. It is important to contact Kinder Pediatrics right away if your child is experiencing pain. Before the appointment, you can ease the pain with an ice pack. If the pain won’t subside, you may give your child over the counter acetaminophen.
What If a Permanent Tooth Gets Knocked Out?
Accidents happen, especially to children. If you have the tooth, and it is whole, try placing the tooth back into the socket and holding it there with a washcloth, or piece of gauze. If this isn’t possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and bring it with you to the pediatric dentist.
My Child Grinds Their Teeth. What Should I Do?
Many children grind their teeth, especially when baby teeth are falling out and permanent teeth are coming in. They often do this for comfort reasons. If you feel that your child is grinding excessively, bring it to the attention of your pediatric dentist. In some cases, an appliance or night guard can be fitted to prevent wear to the teeth.

As a pediatric dentist, Dr. Darryl Engel is committed to the life long dental health of your child. For any questions or concerns you may have regarding your child’s teeth, please call the office.

Call Dr. Darryl Engel’s office today at: 551-210-4012 to schedule your child’s first pediatric dental appointment and keep them on the road to a beautiful, healthy smile.