What Age to Stop Pacifier?

pacifier weaning

Pacifiers are used by many infants and children, and they offer comfort and reduce stress. Pacifiers are great when children are young, but many parents wonder when it is appropriate to wean their child off of the pacifier. Using a pacifier can cause issues with a child’s mouth, jaw, and teeth if it is used too long.

At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry we work with our patients and parents to help give you tips and tricks to help scale back on pacifier use, and eventually stop using it completely. We understand how important pacifier use is for infants and toddlers, but is also very important to take the pacifier away to prevent issues from developing in the future.

What Are Tips To Help My Child Stop Using a Pacifier?

Each child is different and what you do for one child may not work for another. We recommend parents do what is best for their child, and we help parents by recommending behavior modifications to help with the process. Finding the perfect time is important, and parents should look at what is going on in the child’s life while weaning them off of the pacifier. Getting creative can help, and parents need to find new ways to comfort their child. Providing your child with incentives is important, and always using positive reinforcement to let them know they are doing great will make the process easier.

What Issues Can a Pacifier Cause?

A pacifier provides soothing comfort to a child, and when a child is born the sucking reflex is natural. The perfect time for a child to stop using a pacifier is between the ages of two and four. If a child continues to use a pacifier beyond this age range their jaw or bite could be compromised.

Pacifiers can cause children to develop an over bite, or affect how their teeth erupt in the mouth. Orthodontic treatment is common for children who have used a pacifier. Weaning your child off of a pacifier should be done as early as possible because as the child grows older, breaking the habit will become more difficult.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you would like to schedule an appointment for your child, or you would like to find out more about the benefits of weaning a child off of the pacifier, contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry. We provide the very best care, and our practice is equipped with the latest technology. Learning about good oral hygiene habits at an early age can set the stage for the future, and help your child develop good habits.

To schedule an appointment contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry and our friendly staff will be happy to help you.

Is it Worth Buying an Electric Toothbrush?

electric toothbrush

Your toothbrush is an important part of your daily oral care routine. Choosing the right toothbrush can help you keep your teeth and gums healthy. Today, there are many options available, and electric toothbrushes are very popular. Both manual and electric toothbrushes are made to remove plaque, bacteria, and prevent cavities. Knowing the benefits of an electric toothbrush can help you decide if they are right for you.

What Are the Benefits of an Electric Tooth Brush?

Power

An electric toothbrush is battery powered and does not require you to manually brush for at least two minutes. They do the work for you, and can really reach areas that a manual brush cannot. Some models even include a timer so you know exactly how long to brush. Electric toothbrushes can cover areas quicker and easier compared to a manual brush.

Effort

Less effort is required with an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes clear away bacteria faster and easier compared to a manual tooth brush.

Plaque and Bacteria

Electric toothbrushes can remove bacteria and plaque easier and faster compared to a manual toothbrush. This makes brushing easier, and studies have found that those that use an electric toothbrush have less plaque and bacteria buildup over time. The bristles of an electric toothbrush gently remove plaque and bacteria without wearing down your gums or enamel.

Easy To Use

Electric toothbrushes are really easy to use, and can help people who have a hard time brushing or moving their hands. When brushing you simply move the brush from tooth to tooth, and this makes the process quick and efficient without having to manually brush each tooth.

Help Children Keep Good Oral Hygiene Habits

Electric toothbrushes also help children keep their teeth clean and free of plaque. There are electric brushes that are smaller and designed specifically for children. They make sounds, and come with a timer to make brushing fun and easy.

Is an Electric Toothbrush Right for Me?

Electric toothbrushes are a great tool that help to remove bacteria and plaque from your teeth. They are a great alternative to manual toothbrushes, and can make your oral care routine easier. Electric toothbrushes do cost a bit more, but many people say they are worth the investment. Whatever brush you choose, it is always important to brush and floss daily to keep your teeth and mouth looking and feeling great.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out if an electric toothbrush is right for you, contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry. Our staff is happy to discuss the benefits of an electric toothbrush, and review which brands we recommend. Your oral health is important, and using the right tools at home can help you keep your teeth and mouth healthy.

To schedule your appointment with us contact contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

What is Safe to Eat After a Frenectomy?

frenectomy

If your child has a short or thick frenulum that restricts the tongue’s movement, they may have a tongue tie, and have been recommended for a frenectomy procedure. Many babies are born with tongue-ties, and parents notice the child has issues when they eat, speak, or breastfeed.

A frenectomy is a simple procedure that helps to restore movement of the tongue. The procedure only takes a few minutes, and is done in our office. During the procedure the lingual frenulum, or skin underneath the tongue is gently cut and released to restore movement. After the procedure healing is minimal, and parents must help to stretch the tissue that has been cut or lasered away. This prevents the skin from growing back too tightly.

After the procedure, patients should follow a soft foods diet and avoid very hot foods. Soft foods include jello, applesauce, or pudding. We recommend to avoid any salty or acidic foods, or any foods that are extremely cold or hot. As the area heals and any numbing wears off, the patient can move to solid foods. While eating parents should try and help them keep the food away from the surgical area.

Following these guidelines will ensure your child’s recovery goes smoothly, and helps to avoid any complications. Our staff is available to answer any questions or concerns throughout the process. If your child experiences any prolonged pain, or has symptoms you are concerned about, we encourage you to call our office right away.

Interested in Finding Out More About a Frenectomy?

If you have a concern about your child’s speech, and want to find out more about the frenectomy procedure, contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry. Our doctors have years of experience in treating pediatric tongue-ties, and we always provide gentle and compassionate care to all of our patients. Our staff is trained to work with children, and we always ensure they have a positive experience when they visit our office. At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry we use state of the art technology, and provide a comfortable environment for all of our patients.

To schedule a consultation with us, contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

What Should I Look for In a Dentist That Treats Autistic Children?

autistic children

Choosing a pediatric dentist for your child is very important. Parents want to know that their child will receive the care they need if the child requires special needs. For patients that require special needs, parents must find a dentist they feel comfortable with. At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we provide exceptional dental care for our pediatric patients. We welcome both autistic patients, and patients that have special needs.

Pediatric dentists attend two to three additional years of training after they complete dental school. This is so they can understand all of the unique requirements needed to treat pediatric patients. This training includes treating children with autism. Medical appointments can be a challenge for both the parent and child that is autistic, and finding the right dentist that can ensure the appointment goes well is critical.

Tips for Choosing a Pediatric Dentist

  • Look for a pediatric dentist that has worked with autistic children or special needs., and ask what their procedures are. Many pediatric dentists and staff have been trained to handle children with special needs. At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we work with together with the parents to ensure the patient always has a positive experience. We are sensitive to each child’s needs, and work to provide the highest level of care.
  • Make sure your dentist offers a pre-visit to give you the opportunity to meet the doctor and staff prior to any appointments. This gives you the opportunity to discuss any concerns about your child’s care, and see both the office and exam room. Pre-visits can help you prepare your child, and can give the staff the ability to speak with the parent about how the appointment will go. At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, our staff is highly trained to work with children that have special needs, and we will discuss the details of the appointment, and work with the parents to ensure your child has a positive experience.
  • Talk to your dentist and ask them how they handle sensitivity to light or sound. At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we take note of a child’s sensitivity level, and we have the ability to turn down lights or sound to ensure the appointment will go smoothly.
  • If needed we offer “laughing gas” or nitrous oxide, as well as conscious sedation to help our patients get through a dental procedure. These options are safe, and allow our doctors to treat patients easily if they require a complicated procedure. These methods are only used when necessary, and we take these options very seriously. Before any sedation is recommended, we look at medical history, and a medical exam is required before any sedation can be done.
  • Communication is very important when you take your child to the dentist. Our staff is trained to communicate with you before, during, and after any treatment. This helps to make sure the parent and patient are comfortable, and are aware of what is required each step of the way.
  • When you enter into a pediatric office, the waiting room should be full of kid friendly colors and have games or entertainment for the kids. At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we have created an updated and welcoming environment for our patients where they can play a game or watch a movie while they are waiting for their appointment.
  • As an incentive for a good appointment, we provide all of our patients with a small toy after their visit. This gives the child something to look forward to when they visit our office.

Looking for a Pediatric Dentist That Treats Autistic Children?

If you are looking for a pediatric or special needs Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, our team is here to help. We strive to provide the highest level of care for all of our patients, and ensure when they visit our office, they have a positive experience. We know choosing a pediatric dentist can be hard, and during our consultation process we really try and get to know each patient, and learn about what their needs are. This helps our team understand how to customize their visit, and make their experience positive.

If you are looking to schedule a dental exam for your child, contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe for Children?

little girl patient teeth on white at the dentist's office

As children grow older and their permanent teeth erupt, their teeth can look dull or yellow in color. Many parents inquire about teeth whitening for their children. In some cases, the yellow color is due to what your child eats or drinks, poor dental hygiene, or decay. The good news is teeth whitening can be safe for children if they meet certain criteria.

What Is Required for Children To Begin To Whiten Their Teeth?

Teeth whitening for children is generally safe, but there is some risk involved. Typically, we recommend having your dentist provide teeth whitening treatment, and avoid using over the counter products that can cause sensitivity. Children must meet certain criteria in order to begin whitening their teeth.

On average teeth whitening can begin between the ages of 14-16. We require the child to have all of their permanent teeth. It is best to not begin whitening treatment until all the adult teeth are present, and there are no baby teeth left. We also examine your child to ensure their enamel has fully calcified. If you child requires orthodontic treatment to correct misaligned teeth, this must also be completed before any teeth whitening treatment begins.

Our team at Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry can help your child achieve that perfect white smile. Our detailed exam can determine if your child qualifies to begin treatment. If we recommend waiting to start whitening treatment, we may recommend using whitening toothpaste to help your child with staining or discoloration.

To determine if your child is ready to begin treatment to whiten their teeth, scheduling a consultation with us is the first step. Our skilled doctors can determine the best treatment options, and help your child achieve that perfect smile.

Ready To Find Out More About Teeth Whitening?

If you are interested in finding out more about teeth whitening for your child, contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry to schedule your appointment. Your child’s oral health is our priority, and we provide quality dental care you can trust in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

To schedule your consultation, contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

Is it Normal to Defer to a Pediatric Dentist for Fillings?

pediatric dentist for fillings

If your child has severe decay or an infection, you may think the only solution would be the pull the primary tooth. Instead, your dentist can treat the inside of the baby tooth to save the tooth by performing a root canal. There are many benefits to saving primary teeth, and keeping them in your child’s mouth as long as you can.

Root canals can help save a tooth from an infection in the pulp area or center of a tooth. During a root canal procedure, the inflamed area of the tooth is cleaned out and sealed to prevent bacteria from entering in the future. Today dentists believe saving a baby tooth is just as important as saving an adult tooth.

What Are the Recommendations if My Child Has a Cavity?

In many cases children do not even notice they have a cavity until the cavity has progressed and become very large. If the cavity is large a silver crown may be recommended because primary teeth cannot handle large fillings. If the cavity is smaller and only on the surface of the tooth, we may recommend just watching the area. Depending on the size of the cavity and the type of tooth, our team will recommend the best treatment, and determine if a filling is needed.

At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we always choose the least invasive option and have your child’s best interest at hand. Our team will look at the child’s dental history, and consider the child’s risk for future cavities. We will provide a customized treatment plan, and discuss this plan with the parents to help decide what option is best for the child.

What Can I Expect During My Child’s Filling Appointment?

Talking to your child before their visit is important. Explain to them that the appointment will be easy, and that they will feel better after their appointment. When you come in for the appointment, we will bring you to the treatment room, and discuss the treatment plan to confirm everyone knows what is required. We may allow the parent to be present during the procedure if the child has anxiety, and seems to need parental support. We can discuss what is best for your child, and work with each patient to ensure both the parent and patient are comfortable.

Once your child is comfortable in the treatment room our doctor will explain the procedure in terms that are easily understood, and show them some of the tools that will be used. We offer TV as a distraction, and this helps the child to stay calm during the procedure. If anesthetic is needed, we will first numb the area with a topical numbing cream to help the process go smoothly.

Our goal is to keep your child calm and comfortable during their procedure. Once the procedure is complete, we will allow the child to pick out a special prize for completing their appointment. If we have any post treatment recommendations, we will discuss them with the parent after the procedure is complete. Our goal at Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, is to ensure your child has the very best experience when they visit our office.

Interested in Scheduling an Appointment With Us?

If you think your child may have a cavity, or you have been referred to our practice for treatment, contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry to schedule your appointment. Our doctors have years of experience in pediatric dentistry, and we provide the highest level of service. We look forward to you joining our dental family.

To schedule an appointment for your child, contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Is it Reasonable to Put a Crown on a Baby Tooth?

put a crown on a baby tooth

If your child has cavities, you may be wondering what can be done to save their teeth. At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we have years of pediatric dentistry experience, and are trained to work with children. Cavities are common in children, and some children are prone to them more than others. If a child has a small cavity, we may just watch it, or recommend a dental filling. In cases where the child has severe decay, a pediatric crown may be recommended in order to save the tooth.

What Are Pediatric Crowns?

Pediatric crowns are caps that are placed over a tooth to protect the tooth from further decay. Crowns are made to match the size and shape of a child’s natural teeth. They are durable, and can save a tooth that has suffered severe decay. Crowns are used only when necessary, or when the tooth cannot support a dental filling. Other reasons crowns are used include restoring teeth that are severely broken or worn out, or if your child has a high risk of developing cavities.

Why Would You Put a Crown on a Primary Tooth?

Primary teeth are very important in the development of a child’s adult teeth. They help with speech and overall growth and development. Primary teeth are needed for many years of a child’s life, and it is important to protect a child’s teeth to maintain their oral health. Primary teeth are placeholders for adult teeth, and if a child does not have their primary teeth, this can cause adult teeth to come in crooked or misaligned. Instead of extracting the primary tooth, a crown can leave the tooth intact, but protect the tooth from further damage.

How Does the Crown Procedure Work?

Crowns can typically be placed in one dental visit making this ideal for children. The tooth will be cleaned and prepared for the crown. Local anesthesia is used along with Nitrous Oxide or laughing gas, to keep your child calm and relaxed during their procedure. Once the tooth is ready the crown is gently affixed on top of the tooth. Recovery is minimal, and we recommend your child wait a few hours to eat until the anesthesia wears off. Your child’s bite may feel off after the crown procedure, but they will adjust and get used to their new crown after a few days.

Dental crowns should last until the primary teeth are lost. We do recommend practicing good oral hygiene habits at home with brushing and flossing each day, to keep your crown and teeth looking and feeling healthy. Regular visits to our office are important, they give our doctors the opportunity to check to make sure there is no additional decay, and the crown looks healthy.

Ready To Schedule Your Appointment?

At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we care about your child’s oral health, and strive to provide the very best dental care to our patients. Our doctors and staff are trained to work with children, and we always ensure your child will have a positive experience when they visit our office. We provide quality dental care that patients can trust, and we look forward to you joining our dental family.

If you think your child may need a crown, or you would like to schedule their regular dental exam, contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Is Root Canal Treatment Necessary for a 3-year-old Baby?

Root Canal Treatment for a 3-year-old Baby

If your child has severe decay or an infection, you may think the only solution would be the pull the primary tooth. Instead, your dentist can treat the inside of the baby tooth to save the tooth by performing a root canal. There are many benefits to saving primary teeth, and keeping them in your child’s mouth as long as you can.

Root canals can help save a tooth from an infection in the pulp area or center of a tooth. During a root canal procedure, the inflamed area of the tooth is cleaned out and sealed to prevent bacteria from entering in the future. Today dentists believe saving a baby tooth is just as important as saving an adult tooth.

Reasons for Saving a Baby Tooth

  • Loosing primary teeth too early can affect a child’s speech or development.
  • Keeping the tooth in position helps to make space for adult teeth.
  • If primary teeth are lost this can affect a baby’s ability to chew or eat.
  • Primary teeth help to prevent crowding and adult teeth from coming in crooked.
  • May prevent future orthodontic treatment.

How Do I know if My Child Needs Endodontic Treatment?

If your child is complaining of pain, we recommend making an appointment with our office right away. If there is an infection the issue should be addressed as soon as possible. Our team will examine the tooth and take x-rays to get a clear picture of the problem. Our doctors will create a customized treatment plan, and discuss what treatment options are available. Depending on the severity of the infection will determine what treatment is needed.

How Does a Root Canal Work?

There are two ways a root canal can be done depending on the location and severity of the infection. If the infection is only in the crown area of the tooth, a pulpotomy will be performed. This is when the inflamed pulp chamber is cleaned out and removed. The root is left alive and in perfect condition. A crown may be placed afterwards to restore the tooth until it naturally falls out when the adult teeth erupt beneath it.

If both the crown area and the root area of the tooth are infected, a pulpectomy may be needed. This is when we remove the entire pulp area from the crown and root of the tooth. The pulp chamber is cleaned out and sealed to prevent future bacteria from entering. Crowns are typically used after this procedure to retore the tooth’s functionality, and protect the primary tooth underneath until it is naturally lost.

Interested in Finding Out More About Root Canals for Children?

At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, your child’s oral health is our priority, and our team works to ensure each visit to our office is positive. We provide quality dental care you can trust in a comfortable and calm environment. When a child visits a dental office, this can be stressful. Our staff is trained to work with children, and we always make sure your child will feel comfortable during their visit. Our office is accepting new patients, and we welcome you to join our dental family.

If your child is experiencing pain in or around a tooth, or you think they may need root canal treatment, contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

What Is Early Orthodontics?

Early Orthodontics

Early orthodontics is also referred to as phase 1 orthodontic treatment, and may be necessary to help children who have growth or alignment issues with their teeth. At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we offer a variety of different options for patients who require early orthodontics. Our goal is to address the issues early to prevent more serious issues in the future from developing. Catching any issues with the jaw or teeth in the beginning is important before permanent teeth erupt.

When Should I Consider Early Orthodontic Treatment?

If your dentist has a concern during your regular exam, they may recommend early orthodontic treatment. Common devices used in early orthodontic treatment include braces, palatal expanders, or retainers.

What Are Common Issues That Require Early Orthodontic Treatment?

  • Issues with a child’s bite
  • Malocclusion or misaligned teeth
  • Teeth that protrude
  • Issue with a child’s jaw, or a child who has a very small jaw

What Are the Benefits of Early Orthodontics?

Early orthodontics can correct issues early on before they cause damage, and reduce the need for treatments later in life. Not every child requires early orthodontic treatment. Children that do not have any issues with their jaw or teeth should wait until phase 2 orthodontics.

  • Prevents a narrow jaw
  • Eliminates chances of crowding
  • Lowers risk of damage to protruding teeth
  • Reduces risk of tooth decay
  • Reduces risk of gum disease

Typically, children do not need to visit the orthodontist until at least six or seven years of age. Many children do not need orthodontic treatment until they are older. An early visit to the orthodontist can help detect issues, as well as know what your child may require as they get older. This also gives the opportunity for the parent to ask questions. Our team will discuss if your child requires phase 1 orthodontics to help reduce the need for treatment later in life.

Ready To Schedule Your Child’s Consultation?

If you are interested in finding out if your child requires early orthodontics, we recommend scheduling a consultation with us. Our doctors have years of experience in orthodontics, and our team is trained to work with children. We strive to provide a positive experience each time they visit our office. At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we provide quality dentistry you can trust, and we welcome new patients to join our dental family.

To schedule your child’s appointment, contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

When Should I Start Brushing my Baby’s Teeth?

Brushing my Baby's Teeth

Taking care of our teeth from birth is important, and teaching our children good oral hygiene from the beginning can help them later on in life. Many parents wonder when it is a good idea to start brushing their baby’s teeth. Primary teeth are very important, and they help a child with speech and development. If a child loses their baby teeth too early from decay, the development of permanent teeth may be affected or come in crooked.

Why Is It a Good Idea to Brush Your Baby’s Teeth?

At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we help our young patients and parents learn good oral hygiene habits to practice at home. Regular visits to the dentist are recommended when your child turns one year old, or when their teeth begin to erupt. Brushing your baby’s teeth can start right when you see their first tooth pop up through the gums. We recommend using a finger brush, or clean washcloth to wipe their teeth and tongue clean after meals and at bedtime. This helps to keep their teeth and gums clean and free of bacteria or food.

Can I Use Toothpaste?

According to the Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), they recommend using a rice size bit of cavity preventing toothpaste when your baby’s first teeth erupt. When they reach the age of 3 parents can increase the toothpaste to be the size of a pea. Gently massage the teeth and gums to remove any bacteria or food that may have lingered in those areas.

Visiting the dentist for your regular exams twice a month can help us get in front of any issues with your child’s teeth or mouth before they become serious. We can monitor their teeth for decay, and make sure their jaw is developing properly. Setting the stage in the beginning with good oral hygiene can really help teach your child how to care for their teeth in the future.

Our doctors and team have years of pediatric dentistry experience, and we welcome new pediatric patients to join our dental family. Our team is trained to work with children, and we always make sure they have a positive experience when they visit our office. At Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, we strive to provide quality dental care you can trust.

Ready To Schedule Your Child’s Appointment?

If you are interested in scheduling your child’s regular dental exam with us, contact Upbeat Pediatric Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.