April 2023 - Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry

What to do when your child’s permanent tooth is knocked out

May 3, 2023April 26, 2023 by Silvia Salles

Accidents happen, and sometimes children can experience trauma to their teeth that results in a knocked-out tooth. This can be a scary experience for both the child and the parent, but it’s important to know what steps to take in order to ensure the best possible outcome for the tooth and your child’s oral health. In this blog post, we’ll guide you step by step on what to do if your child’s permanent tooth is knocked out.

Step 1: Stay calm and act quickly

If your child’s permanent tooth is knocked out, it’s important to stay calm and act quickly. Time is of the essence when it comes to saving a knocked-out tooth. The first hour after the tooth has been knocked out is known as the “golden hour,” during which the tooth has the best chance of being saved and successfully re-implanted.

Step 2: Handle the tooth with care

When handling the knocked-out tooth, it’s important to be gentle and avoid touching the root of the tooth. Pick the tooth up by the crown (the top part of the tooth that is visible when it’s in the mouth) and avoid touching the root or any attached tissue.

Step 3: Rinse the tooth with milk or saline solution

If possible, rinse the tooth with milk or a saline solution. This can help to remove any debris or dirt from the tooth and keep it moist, which is important for successful re-implantation.

Step 4: See a dentist as soon as possible

It’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. The dentist can assess the tooth and ensure that it is properly repositioned and stabilized. They may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection and recommend a follow-up visit to monitor the tooth’s progress.

Risks of delaying treatment for a knocked-out tooth

Not seeking a dentist immediately after a tooth has been knocked out can lead to several dangers and potential complications. Firstly, the longer the tooth is out of its socket, the less chance there is of saving it. The root of the tooth begins to die within 15 minutes of being knocked out, and after an hour, the chances of saving the tooth decrease significantly.

Additionally, not seeking prompt dental care can lead to infection, which can spread to other parts of the body and cause serious health problems. The mouth is home to many bacteria, and an exposed tooth root can become a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms.

Delaying treatment can also lead to issues with the surrounding teeth and gums. If a tooth is missing, nearby teeth can shift out of place, causing problems with alignment and bite. This can lead to further dental issues down the line, including jaw pain and difficulty chewing.

In some cases, a knocked-out tooth can also cause damage to the nerves and blood vessels in the surrounding area. This can lead to long-term complications, including chronic pain and numbness.

It’s crucial to seek immediate dental care after a permanent tooth has been knocked out to increase the chances of saving the tooth and preventing further damage and complications.

What will the dentist do?

When you arrive at the dentist’s office, they will examine the tooth and the surrounding area to determine the best course of action. In some cases, the tooth may be able to be reimplanted, which involves placing the tooth back into the socket and stabilizing it with a splint for several weeks. Other times, the tooth may need to be replaced with a dental implant or bridge.

In need of an emergency appointment?

At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that dental emergencies can be stressful for parents and children alike. That’s why we offer emergency dentistry services to help you and your child through any dental trauma or emergency. If your child’s permanent tooth has been knocked out, don’t hesitate to call our office and seek professional support. We’re here to help your child maintain a healthy, happy smile.

Tongue Tie and Breastfeeding: Tips for Success

April 28, 2023April 19, 2023 by Silvia Salles

Breastfeeding can be a challenging experience for many new mothers, and when tongue tie is present, it can make things even more difficult. Tongue tie is a condition where the frenulum, a piece of tissue that connects the tongue to the bottom of the mouth, is shorter and tighter than normal, making it difficult for the baby to breastfeed effectively. Fortunately, with the right tips and techniques, it’s possible to overcome these challenges and have a successful breastfeeding experience.

How does Tongue Tie affect breastfeeding?

Tongue tie can affect both the mother and the baby when it comes to breastfeeding. For the baby, tongue tie can make it difficult to latch onto the breast properly, which can result in poor milk transfer, insufficient milk supply, and inadequate weight gain. The baby may also experience excessive fussiness, colic, or reflux as a result of swallowing air while trying to nurse. This can be frustrating for both the baby and the parents, and can make breastfeeding a stressful experience.

For the mother, tongue tie can cause nipple pain, damage, and even infection due to poor latch and inadequate milk transfer. This can lead to difficulties in establishing and maintaining breastfeeding, which can result in feelings of frustration, guilt, and inadequacy. Mothers may also experience engorgement, mastitis, and reduced milk supply as a result of tongue tie, further adding to the challenges of breastfeeding.

How do I know if my baby has Tongue Tie?

There are several signs you can look for during breastfeeding to determine if your baby has tongue tie. These signs can include:

Difficulty latching: If the baby is having difficulty latching onto the breast, it could be a sign of tongue tie. The baby may struggle to open their mouth wide enough to latch properly, or may have difficulty maintaining a proper latch.

Clicking sounds: If the baby is making clicking sounds while nursing, it may be a sign of tongue tie. This can occur when the baby is unable to maintain a proper latch due to limited tongue movement.

Short feedings: If the baby is constantly feeding for short periods of time, it may be a sign of tongue tie. The baby may tire easily due to inefficient milk transfer, leading to shorter feedings.

Nipple pain or damage: If the mother is experiencing nipple pain or damage, it may be a sign of tongue tie. The baby may be unable to latch properly, leading to improper milk transfer and nipple trauma.

Inadequate weight gain: If the baby is not gaining weight properly, it could be a sign of tongue tie. Inadequate milk transfer can lead to poor weight gain, which can be concerning for parents.

What do I do if I suspect my baby has Tongue Tie?

If you suspect your baby may have tongue tie, it’s important to seek professional support. A lactation consultant or pediatric dentist can assess the baby’s mouth and tongue movement to determine if tongue tie is present. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to improve breastfeeding success and avoid further complications.

It’s important for parents to seek professional support if they suspect tongue tie may be causing difficulties with breastfeeding. With the right guidance and treatment, it’s possible to overcome these challenges and have a successful breastfeeding experience.

Looking for a Pediatric Dentist that treats Tongue Tie?

At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we understand how challenging tongue tie can be for breastfeeding mothers and their babies. That’s why we offer tongue tie release procedures using the latest laser technology. Our team of experienced pediatric dentists is committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to ensure the best outcomes for you and your baby.
If you’re struggling with breastfeeding due to tongue tie, we encourage you to visit our Tongue Tie Institute website and learn more about our tongue tie release procedures. Don’t let tongue tie stand in the way of your breastfeeding success – contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry today.

Dentistry for Special Needs Patients: Special Care

April 28, 2023April 13, 2023 by Silvia Salles

Going to the dentist can be a stressful experience for anyone, but for children with special needs, it can be even more overwhelming. At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that every child is unique and requires individualized care, especially those with special needs. We are committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and compassionate environment for all our patients, including those with special needs.

At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we provide specialized dental care services for children with a wide range of special needs, including autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, among other intellectual disabilities. Our team of dental professionals has extensive experience in treating children with special needs and is committed to providing the highest quality of care to all our patients.

What Makes Your Child A Candidate For Special Needs Dentistry?

If your child has a disability of any kind that is preventing them from sitting still or being able to receive care, we welcome you to come into our office. Special needs dentistry allows these children to finally receive the care that they want and need.

What are the key aspects dentists should pay attention to when caring for Special Needs patients?

Communication and Behavior Management: Children with special needs may have difficulty communicating and understanding what is happening during their dental appointment. At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we use a variety of communication techniques and behavior management strategies to help patients feel at ease and understand what’s happening during the appointment. Our team is trained in the use of nonverbal communication, such as visual schedules and picture boards, to help patients understand what to expect during their appointment.

Sensory-Friendly Environment: Special needs patients may be hypersensitive to sound, light, or touch, which can make a dental appointment a stressful experience. At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we have designed our office to be kid friendly, so we have a lot of toys and a TV at their disposal if they need some distraction to make them feel comfortable during the appointment.

Customized Treatment Plans: Every special needs patient is unique, and they require individualized care that takes into consideration their medical history, oral health needs, and individual preferences. At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we develop a customized treatment plan for each patient, taking into consideration their unique needs and preferences. Our goal is to provide the best possible care while minimizing stress and discomfort.

Sedation and Anesthesia: For some special needs patients, sedation or anesthesia may be necessary to complete dental treatment safely and comfortably. We offer different sedation options, including nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and general anesthesia, to meet each child’s individual needs. Our team of dental professionals is trained to administer and monitor sedation and anesthesia safely and effectively.

Coordinated Care: Special needs patients may require coordinated care with other medical professionals to ensure that their dental care aligns with their overall health goals. At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we work closely with families, caregivers, and medical professionals to provide coordinated and comprehensive care to our patients.

Looking for a Pediatric Dentist That Treats Special Needs Patients?

At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that every child deserves access to quality dental care, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. We are committed to providing a safe, compassionate, and welcoming environment for all our patients, including those with special needs. We work closely with families, caregivers, and medical professionals to provide the best possible care for each child. If you have a child with special needs, contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to explain more about our specialized dental care services.