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FIRST DENTAL EXAM

Posted by amy bremner on 2:11 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on FIRST DENTAL EXAM

First Visit by First Birthday Wondering when your child’s first dentist Appointment Should Be? The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends you bring your child to the dentist for the first time by her first birthday. The idea of such early dental visits is still surprising to many new parents. However, national studies have shown that preschool-aged children are getting more cavities. More than 1 in 4 children in the United States has had at least one cavity by the age of 4. Many kids get cavities as early as age 2. To prevent...

KEEPING THAT SUNNY SUMMER SMILE

Posted by amy bremner on 2:43 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on KEEPING THAT SUNNY SUMMER SMILE

5 Tips for a Healthy Smile this Summer: Summer Vacation is a time to relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the school year. But while letting up on routines and structure, it can be easy to slack off on your kiddo’s oral health as well. Here are 5 tips to maintain a healthy smile this Summer: Stay on routine Summer can be busy and filled with fun, but make sure to brush your teeth at least twice daily for two minutes each time. Keeping a routine of brushing and flossing every day will continue to solidify that healthy...

IS FINGER SUCKING REALLY SO BAD?

Posted by amy bremner on 1:04 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on IS FINGER SUCKING REALLY SO BAD?

Three Issues That Affect Oral Health. Sucking Habits Although sucking is a natural reflex, sucking fingers, thumbs and pacifiers beyond tooth eruption will cause tooth misalignment. Infants and young children may suck on thumbs, fingers, pacifiers which makes them feel safe and happy. It provides a sense of security during difficult periods. It is also relaxing and may induce sleep Thumb and finger sucking that persists beyond the eruption of the permanent teeth can cause problems with tooth alignment and the proper growth of the mouth. The...

IT’S AN EPIDEMIC

Posted by amy bremner on 8:04 am in BLOG | Comments Off on IT’S AN EPIDEMIC

Tooth decay, in Children, is Considered an Epidemic Good news, it’s 100% preventable Tooth decay has decreased over the past couple of decades, but half of all children, aged 6-19, in the U.S. are still affected. Because of this, tooth decay is considered an epidemic among our children, but is 100 percent preventable. Here are some vital tips to ensure your kiddo isn’t part of the tooth decay epidemic: Create a Dental Home by Age One Starting regular oral care at a young age will lead to healthy oral health habits for life, so take your...

DONE SO SOON?

Posted by amy bremner on 10:30 am in BLOG | Comments Off on DONE SO SOON?

How to Tell if Your Child is Cutting Brush Time Short Tooth-brushing is one of the first responsibilities you give to your child allowing them to assert his or her independence. When your little ones are young, it’s easy to monitor their dental care habits and know that they are brushing regularly and long enough. But as they get older, close observation becomes trickier and you have to simply trust them. If you can’t monitor their brushing and flossing habits daily, here are some ways to know if they are keeping up their oral hygiene...

PEDIATRIC DENTIST VS GENERAL DENTIST

Posted by amy bremner on 4:16 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on PEDIATRIC DENTIST VS GENERAL DENTIST

The difference between a pediatric dentist and a general dentist. Even though pediatric dentists and general dentists both treat dental health conditions, these two types of dentists differ in a variety of ways. General dentists tend to treat and focus solely on adult teeth and adult dental health conditions, meanwhile pediatric dentists usually only treat children’s teeth (also known as baby teeth), mixed dentition (kids with some baby teeth and some adult teeth), and sometimes adults with special needs. Beyond that, children need to be...

MOVE OVER BONES!

Posted by amy bremner on 10:43 am in BLOG | Comments Off on MOVE OVER BONES!

Tooth Enamel is the Hardest Substance in the Human Body. Here’s How it Stacks Up. Your amazing, versatile, complicated body is tougher than it looks. Between your muscles, skin, cartilage, and bones, your vital organs are surrounded by a structural force field that doubles as an engineering marvel. So what’s the hardest substance in your body? The answer might surprise you. In fact, the most durable and tough substance in your body is actually a tissue. Encasing your teeth and helping you chew, bite, and tear your food is your tooth...

THE 2’S RULE

Posted by amy bremner on 8:19 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on THE 2’S RULE

The 2+2+2 rule It’s that time of year again when we make resolutions to do better. We know you already instill healthy oral hygiene habits in your kiddos all year long, but now is a good time to reinforce the 2+2+2 rule if you’ve let it slide a little throughout the year. Talk about it with your little one and why it’s so important to always strive to make it a lifelong habit. In case you need a refresher, the 2+2+2 rule is brushing for 2 minutes 2 times a day and visiting the dentist for a check-up and cleaning 2...

GRATEFUL FOR MODERN DENTISTRY

Posted by amy bremner on 11:33 am in BLOG | Comments Off on GRATEFUL FOR MODERN DENTISTRY

We’ve Come a Long Way, Baby! from twigs, pine needles and chewing on herbs, that is. Thanksgiving brings to mind a perfectly roasted golden turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, delicious pies, and a table full of yummy goodness. It’s also a time to be thankful for all the wonderful things in life while bonding around the table with family and friends. While the tradition of Thanksgiving hasn’t changed much since the Pilgrims and Native Americans first joined together to share a plentiful feast, the way we care for our teeth sure...

FLUORIDE IS YOUR FRIEND

Posted by amy bremner on 8:55 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on FLUORIDE IS YOUR FRIEND

To Flouride or not to Flouride, That is the Question. Let’s get behind the science of fluoride to better understand how it works and why fluoride is important to the health of your child’s teeth. How Fluoride Works Acids from plaque cause the loss of minerals from the tooth (a process called demineralization), resulting in tooth decay. The formation of small cavities, or carious lesions, can be reversed by remineralization–that is, the deposition of minerals into previously damaged areas of the tooth. Topical fluoride, when...

TEETHING TROUBLES?

Posted by amy bremner on 10:44 am in BLOG | Comments Off on TEETHING TROUBLES?

Is your teething baby keeping you up at night? Drooling, crankiness and tears can make teething an ordeal for babies and parents alike. Here’s information to help ease the pain — for both of you. What’s typical? Although timing varies widely, babies often begin teething by about age 6 months. The two bottom front teeth (lower central incisors) are usually the first to appear, followed by the two top front teeth (upper central incisors). Classic signs and symptoms of teething include: Excessive drooling Chewing on objects...

BACK-TO-SCHOOL CHECKUP

Posted by amy bremner on 7:15 am in BLOG | Comments Off on BACK-TO-SCHOOL CHECKUP

Backpack? Check. Booster Shots? Check. Teeth Cleaning? Check! Tips for a Successful Dental Checkup Regular dental visits are important year-round, but a back-to-school checkup is key in fighting the most common chronic disease found in school-age children: cavities. In fact, dental disease causes children to miss more than 51 million school hours each year. Prevention and early detection can help avoid pain, trouble eating, difficulty speaking and school absences. When scheduling your child’s pediatrician back-to-school checks make...

FUN TEETH FACTS

Posted by amy bremner on 9:00 am in BLOG | Comments Off on FUN TEETH FACTS

Lesser Known Facts About Mouths The human body is a fantastic thing, and one of its essential elements is in the mouth. You guessed it – your teeth! Your mouth is the entrance to the rest of your body and is how you hydrate and energize yourself. While you know how to care for your and your kiddo’s teeth, there are a few fun facts you might not know! That’s a Lot of Teeth: Many critters on the planet have a mouth full of teeth, and that includes some of the smallest, slimiest creatures, too. For example, while having a mouth the...

BEST FRIENDS DAY

Posted by amy bremner on 9:02 am in BLOG | Comments Off on BEST FRIENDS DAY

Another Reason to Smile Today It’s Best Friends Day! Did you know today, June 8, is National Best Friends Day? Here at A Child’s Best Smile, we understand the importance of friendship for everyone, especially children. With the recent pandemic, stay-at-home orders and social distancing causing isolation and separation, friendships are more important than ever. Here are four benefits to celebrating this National Best Friends Day. Mirror Neurons Mirror neurons are essential for childhood development. They help children learn,...

TEETH DON’T HEAL

Posted by amy bremner on 9:40 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on TEETH DON’T HEAL

Take Care of Your Teeth and They will Take Care of You! As you probably know, unlike bones or other parts of the body, teeth are incapable of healing themselves. That is why it’s so important to take really good care of them and to start doing so at a young age so that it becomes a habit all through your kiddo’s life. The best habits to develop, along with limiting sugary and sticky foods, are brushing and flossing and getting cleanings and check-ups every six months. Catching a cavity early is an easy fix versus waiting until the...

HARDWORKING TEETH

Posted by amy bremner on 10:05 am in BLOG | Comments Off on HARDWORKING TEETH

The Four Types of Teeth and Their Functions Teeth have important jobs to do. They help us speak clearly, as well as chew and bite into food. They also give us our unique bright, shiny smiles. By the time your kiddos are adults, they will have between 28 and 32 teeth, depending on whether or not they end up getting their wisdom tooth removed. Among all those teeth there are four tooth types, and each has its own purpose. Incisors These are the teeth at the front of the mouth and the most visible ones when we smile. An incisor cuts into...

ACCIDENTS HAPPEN

Posted by amy bremner on 3:32 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on ACCIDENTS HAPPEN

If you have kids, you know all too well that accidents happen. Knowing what to do when tragedy strikes can make all the difference in the world. Let’s go over a few of the more common accidents that can happen to your kiddos: Knocked-out tooth When a tooth gets knocked out, it will start to die in 15 minutes. But there are things you can do to preserve its life. Keep the tooth moist at all times. Hold the tooth by the crown, and if the tooth is dirty, rinse the root in water. Do not scrub the tooth or remove any attached tissue fragments. To...

THE BENEFITS OF DENTAL SEALANTS

Posted by amy bremner on 8:06 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on THE BENEFITS OF DENTAL SEALANTS

Should my Child get Dental Sealants? Dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth – usually the back teeth (the premolars and molars) – to prevent tooth decay. The sealant quickly bonds into the depressions and grooves of the teeth, forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth. Although thorough brushing and flossing can remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of teeth, they cannot always get into all the nooks and crannies of the back teeth to remove the food...

TOOTH TROUBLE

Posted by amy bremner on 10:38 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on TOOTH TROUBLE

What To Do If… Easy-to-follow guides for tooth accidents Falling down and bumping the head are almost everyday occurrences with little ones. Sometimes those accidents can have troubling consequences like a tooth getting chipped or knocked out. Accidents are nerve-wracking and scary, especially if you don’t know what to do. When your child has a tooth-related accident, you need to be able to act fast, which is why we wanted to provide these highly-visual, easy-to-follow guides, put out by the American Academy of Pediatric...

HEALTHY CHRISTMAS TREATS

Posted by amy bremner on 2:41 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on HEALTHY CHRISTMAS TREATS

Holiday Treats You Can Feel Good About! Holiday treats are inevitable this time of year. With so many of them being a little more sugary than we’d like, we found a fun recipe for a healthy treat your kiddos (and their teeth) will be sure to love! And so easy you don’t even need a recipe!

THE GOOD GUYS

Posted by amy bremner on 4:01 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on THE GOOD GUYS

Healthiest Snacks for Great Teeth The Good Guys Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables. Foods with fiber help keep your teeth and gums clean, says the American Dental Association (ADA). They also get saliva flowing. Next to good home dental care, this is your best natural defense against cavities and gum disease. About 20 minutes after you eat something that has sugars or starches, your saliva begins to reduce the effects of the acids and enzymes attacking your teeth. Saliva contains traces of calcium and phosphate. So it also restores minerals to...

IT’S CANDY TIME!

Posted by amy bremner on 11:46 am in BLOG | Comments Off on IT’S CANDY TIME!

HERE CANDY, THERE CANDY, EVERYWHERE CANDY CANDY It’s that time of year again – an abundance of candy is everywhere you look. From giant bags of Halloween candy in the stores to bowls of candy on teachers’ and coworkers’ desks. Halloween is right around the corner and while it is a fun and festive tradition that most kids live for, it’s not so fun for their teeth. Helping your kiddo develop healthy attitudes towards eating sweet treats is important, especially this time of year when it’s so readily available. Here are 8...

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE KIDS

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 12:04 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on IT’S ALL ABOUT THE KIDS

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE KIDS How we cater to your child’s needs A lot of kids have anxiety about going to the dentist, some more than others. Whatever your child’s specific needs are, we always strive to make sure your kiddo feels comfortable, safe and has a positive experience while visiting our office. You can expect your child to be treated with patience, respect and kindness when they are with us. You can also rely on a customized dental plan that evolves throughout your child’s growing-up years so they always have the best care...

DOES TOOTHPASTE REALLY MATTER?

Posted by amy bremner on 12:28 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on DOES TOOTHPASTE REALLY MATTER?

WHAT’S THE BEST TOOTHPASTE FOR MY CHILD? And how much should be used? As we all know, tooth brushing is one of the most important tasks for good oral health. Many toothpastes, however, can damage your kiddo’s teeth. They contain harsh abrasives, which can wear away young tooth enamel. When looking for a toothpaste for your child, make sure to pick one that is recommended by the American Dental Association as shown on the box and tube. These toothpastes have undergone testing to ensure they are safe to use and won’t...

DITCH THE SODA – HEALTHY WATER ALTERNATIVES

Posted by amy bremner on 12:05 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on DITCH THE SODA – HEALTHY WATER ALTERNATIVES

HEALTHY WATER ALTERNATIVES FUN WAYS TO DITCH THE SODA It’s Summertime – yay! With all the fun outdoor activities in the sunshine and heat, it’s more important than any other time of year to stay hydrated. Water is the obvious choice, but some kids don’t really like plain ol’ water. Rather than reaching for the soda, jazz up your kiddo’s water with fruit! Here are a couple of healthy water alternatives that are teeth-friendly. Juice + Seltzer = Jeltzer!  Mix 100% juice with seltzer. A thick, tart juice, such as cranberry,...

NOW WHAT!

Posted by amy bremner on 10:39 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on NOW WHAT!

Can You Handle A Dental Emergency? Oral injuries during the toddling years and beyond The toddling years: a thrilling time for the child and the parent, although in vastly different ways. For toddlers, it’s all about exploration; learning to crawl and walk and being on the move as much as possible. Which can be a recipe for a dental emergency. For parents, though, it’s often a fine line between celebrating their child’s accomplishments one minute, and fretting over their safety the next. As children begin to walk, they become more...

There’s fluoride in your food!

Posted by amy bremner on 9:12 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on There’s fluoride in your food!

Food has fluoride? Who Knew! Fluoride can strengthen and re-mineralize damaged enamel, making it more resistant to decay. That’s why fluoride is added to public drinking water and toothpaste and mouthwash. Contrary to what you might hear, fluoride is a mineral that occurs in nature in many different places, including our food. Here are a few common foods you may not realize contain naturally occurring fluoride: Spinach Popeye’s favorite superfood, spinach is packed with all kinds of great vitamins and minerals, and fluoride is among...

METAL MOUTH

Posted by amy bremner on 12:34 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on METAL MOUTH

How to Tell if Your Child Needs Braces And what is the best age to get them? The best age varies from patient to patient. Orthodontic treatment most commonly begins between ages 9 and 14 because kids in this age range have at least some permanent teeth and are still growing. If you’re wondering if your child needs braces, here is a checklist of things to look for: Early, late, or irregular loss of baby teeth. Difficulty in chewing or biting. Mouth breathing. Thumb or finger sucking. Crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth. Jaws...

ESTABLISH A DENTAL HOME

Posted by amy bremner on 7:32 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on ESTABLISH A DENTAL HOME

Make your child’s first visit to the pediatric dentist a good one with this helpful checklist! There’s so much to do and learn when your baby comes along. Make sure establishing a Dental Home is on your list of to-do’s, especially if your child has already had their first birthday. Because baby teeth are the blueprint for permanent teeth, caring for them is important. While tooth decay can impact children’s ability to eat and sleep, it can also impact a child’s ability to learn at school and speak clearly. Remember to...

DOES SUGAR REALLY CAUSE CAVITIES?

Posted by amy bremner on 11:39 am in BLOG | Comments Off on DOES SUGAR REALLY CAUSE CAVITIES?

Sort of. Sugar itself does not cause cavities. But cavity-causing bacteria use sugar to cause tooth decay. We all know that eating too many sugary foods can harm your teeth and cause tooth decay. However, sugar alone does not cause much damage. Instead, the chain of events that follows eating or drinking that sugary food is what deals the blow to your teeth. There are tons of harmless and harmful bacteria always present in the mouth. Certain oral bacteria feed on sugars and create acids that can destroy tooth enamel. This process is...

THE 12 TEETH TIPS OF CHRISTMAS

Posted by amy bremner on 1:39 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on THE 12 TEETH TIPS OF CHRISTMAS

The 12 Teeth Tips of Christmas The weather outside is frightful! Kids are accident-prone during the holidays, especially with the icy and snowy weather. Should they take a spill, make sure you are prepared for what to do in a dental emergency, which can be any traumatic injury to the mouth resulting in significant bleeding. In the event of a dental emergency, the first thing parents should do is call their pediatric dentist. Too many sweets for your sweet tooth. There are many opportunities for children to load up on sweets during the holiday...

PROTECT THAT BEAUTIFUL SMILE!

Posted by amy bremner on 9:17 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on PROTECT THAT BEAUTIFUL SMILE!

A Big Help for Little Teeth Nearly half of children aged 6-11 and more than half of children aged 12-19 in the U.S. are affected by tooth decay which can cause up to $25,000 worth of damage to teeth and is 100 percent preventable. There are small yet important changes you, as a parent, can make today to ensure your kiddo is set up for a lifetime of healthy habits and help reverse the tooth decay epidemic among our children: 5 Tips to Implement Right Away: Create a Dental Home by Age One – Starting regular oral care at a young age will...

PACIFIER TEETH

Posted by amy bremner on 5:17 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on PACIFIER TEETH

How to avoid pacifier teeth What Are Pacifier Teeth? Pacifier teeth can occur as a result of prolonged pacifier use. Babies’ mouths and teeth form in the womb and continue to grow throughout childhood. Anything held in an infant’s or toddler’s mouth for long periods during this important time can affect dental and oral development. According to the AAPD and American Dental Association, some dental effects of using pacifiers include: Crooked teeth Problems with bite and jaw alignment Protruding front teeth Changes to the roof of the...

IT’S BACK TO SCHOOL SEASON!

Posted by amy bremner on 8:27 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on IT’S BACK TO SCHOOL SEASON!

Getting Picture-ready! For most parents and even some kids, the start of a new school year can be exciting and a little bit stressful at the same time – especially this year with school meaning different things for everyone; going back to the classroom, completely virtual or a hybrid of both with part-time in-class and part-time online. Whatever the case may be, back to school season is a time for parents to relish in their excitement that the school year is about to begin, especially since late in the summer break can be so...

IT’S AS EASY AS 2 + 2 + 2

Posted by amy bremner on 2:12 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on IT’S AS EASY AS 2 + 2 + 2

The Rule of Two = Good Oral Hygiene Cavities are the most basic form of tooth decay, and children are particularly susceptible. Proper home hygiene and diet along with regular dental exams and teeth cleaning visits are the best defense against cavities. However, sometimes cavities can be hard to prevent. Some kids are at a higher risk for cavities because of the nature of their teeth, how they’re positioned and the balance of good and bad bacteria in the mouth. That’s why regular trips to the dentist are so important. The sooner...

HARVEST A HEALTHY SMILE

Posted by amy bremner on 9:31 am in BLOG | Comments Off on HARVEST A HEALTHY SMILE

Top five veggies for a healthy smile. Vegetables have distinct nutrients that encourage optimal oral health and contain vitamins and minerals that can help strengthen teeth. And because they are rich in fiber, veggies can help stimulate saliva flow. Increased levels of saliva can neutralize cavity-causing acids and wash away bacteria before they hide and spread in mouth crevices. Spinach The abundance of calcium in spinach can help protect tooth enamel, strengthen your jawbones and the bone that supports your teeth, and help prevent...

IT’S AN EPIDEMIC

Posted by amy bremner on 3:24 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on IT’S AN EPIDEMIC

Did you know tooth decay is an epidemic among our children? And it’s 100% preventable! While tooth decay has decreased over the past several years, nearly half of children aged 6-11 and more than half of children aged 12-19 in the U.S. are affected by tooth decay which can cause damage to teeth. Tooth decay is considered an epidemic among our children and is 100 percent preventable. There are a few small yet important changes you, as a parent and caregiver, can make now to ensure your kiddo is set up for a lifetime of healthy...

KEEP CLEAN

Posted by amy bremner on 1:31 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on KEEP CLEAN

5 Things Secretly Harming Your Children’s Tooth Enamel With regular visits to the dentist for check-ups and cleaning temporarily on hold, it’s more important than ever to do everything possible to keep those pearly whites clean, healthy and strong. Making sure the tooth enamel is protected through great oral hygiene is the first step. The second one is making healthy choices about what you put in your mouth. While everyone knows that sugary treats like soda and candy weaken enamel and cause cavities, there are other surprising things...

BABIES BORN WITH TEETH?

Posted by amy bremner on 1:31 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on BABIES BORN WITH TEETH?

Why Are Some Babies Born with Teeth? Teething is a normal part of a baby’s development during the first year of life. Most babies get their first tooth between 4 and 7 months of age. The first teeth that poke through the gums are the central incisors, which are located on the bottom front. While most infants get their first teeth months after birth, some babies are born with one or more teeth. These are called natal teeth. Natal teeth are relatively rare, occurring in about 1 out of every 2,000 births. It can be a shock if your baby is born...

BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 12:59 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE

Weathering the weather in winter. How to keep your kids active when it’s cold outside. The winter months are often the hardest time of the year for a lot of parents when it comes to keeping kids active and occupied. The cold temperatures and gloomy weather keep kids trapped indoors and less motivated to “go and do”, which can lead to Netflix, video games and announcements of “I’m boooorrrred”. Having kids go outside to play is not only helpful to your sanity, there are other benefits as well. Contrary to the general belief,...

SEAL THE DEAL

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 9:03 am in BLOG | Comments Off on SEAL THE DEAL

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Having sealants applied is quick, easy and pain-free. A few weeks ago we posted about dental sealants and today we thought we’d go into more detail about them. Sealants prescribe to the old proverb; an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. It’s an easy and painless step that has a huge payoff. Brushing and flossing are the best ways to help prevent cavities, but it’s not always easy to clean every nook and cranny of your teeth – especially those back teeth, the...

IS YOUR CHILD A MOUTH-BREATHER?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 6:01 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on IS YOUR CHILD A MOUTH-BREATHER?

Mouth breathing in children not only affects their oral health, but it also causes many other health issues as well. Here are 10 changes that can result from mouth-breathing. Although it’s natural to partly breathe through the mouth when speaking or doing exercise, we are actually born to breathe through our noses, not out mouths! This means, if you breathe through your mouth at night then there is something blocking your nasal cavity preventing a comfortable amount of air to flow in and out, there is a disruption of your normal breathing...

DOES IT HAVE TO BE CANDY?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 1:51 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on DOES IT HAVE TO BE CANDY?

Witch Halloween Treats Will You Hand out This Year? Did you know that the average American child will consume about three cups of sugar during the Halloween season? That is almost 16 times the maximum daily recommendation of 25 grams! That is A LOT of sugar and treats! We believe in having fun at Halloween while also being as tooth-friendly as can be! To achieve this, AAPD President Dr. Joe Castellano encourages kids to enjoy trick or treating, but also advises parents to limit consumption to only a little bit at a time. Moderation is key...

DO YOU NEED TO BRACE YOURSELF FOR BRACES?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 5:32 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on DO YOU NEED TO BRACE YOURSELF FOR BRACES?

Is my child a good candidate for braces? Well, that depends. It used to be that kids got braces in high school. Now it seems that people of all ages ranging from elementary-school-age children to senior citizens are straightening their teeth with braces or clear retainers. As a parent, you may be wondering if your child needs braces, as well as when is the best time to start that process. The first step is to establish a Dental Home for your child. The Dental Home is defined by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) as “the...

WHAT CAUSES DRY MOUTH

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 5:26 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on WHAT CAUSES DRY MOUTH

Dry Mouth in Kids What you need to know. Xerostomia, commonly known as ‘dry mouth,’ is a frequent state of oral dryness. Saliva is your mouth’s natural rinsing agent that helps cleanse oral bacteria from the mouth. This keeps bacteria to a minimum and their ability to cause problems at low risk. As oral bacteria thrive, reproduce and amass, the initial result is plaque. Plaque is a cluster of this bacteria that forms on your teeth daily, it’s the sticky film you can feel with your tongue and the culprit of bad breath. Aside from...

2 + 2 + 2 = HEALTHY TEETH

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 5:18 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on 2 + 2 + 2 = HEALTHY TEETH

Prevention is Key Here’s tooth decay in a nutshell. Tooth decay is the destruction of tooth structure and can affect both the enamel and the dentin layer of the tooth. Tooth decay occurs when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches), such as breads, cereals, milk, soda, fruits, cakes, or candy are left on the teeth. Bacteria that live in the mouth digest these foods, turning them into acids. The bacteria, acid, food debris and saliva combine to form plaque, which clings to the teeth. The acids in plaque dissolve the enamel...

FLUORIDE FOR BABIES?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 2:06 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on FLUORIDE FOR BABIES?

Fluoride isn’t just for kiddos with teeth! How Does Fluoride Protect Teeth? You know fluoride will make your kiddo’s teeth stronger, but fluoride also benefits little ones who’s teeth haven’t come in yet. Before teeth break through the gums, the fluoride taken in from foods, beverages and dietary supplements makes tooth enamel (the hard surface of the tooth) stronger, making it easier to resist tooth decay. This provides a “systemic” benefit that ensures those new little pearly whites are stronger...

THINK WATER

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 2:00 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on THINK WATER

Drinking enough water keeps your body healthy, and it’s great for healthy teeth too! Drinking enough water is always important and it’s especially important during the summer months when dehydration and over-heating is more prevalent. It can be a big concern when you’re caught out and about having fun getting hot and sweaty without enough water! During August, fall sports practice starts up, adding to the summertime activities your kiddos might already be participating in. It’s important to take enough water with you whenever you...

APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 10:48 am in BLOG | Comments Off on APRIL SHOWERS BRING MAY FLOWERS

Do flowers have teeth? The answer is YES!…sort of. Not all flowers have “teeth”, but we found a few that sort of have teeth – in their own way. Venus Flytrap By far the most famous of toothy plants, the venus flytrap is known as the predator of the plant world. Its trapping mechanism is made up of a “mouth”: two leaves, trigger hairs that sense prey and toothlike cilia that keep the prey from escaping. The venus flytrap doesn’t mess around, either — it can tell the difference between live prey and non-prey like...

DOES THE EASTER BUNNY HAVE FANGS?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 1:38 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on DOES THE EASTER BUNNY HAVE FANGS?

Did you know that bunny teeth never stop growing? It’s crazy, but true! Rabbits need to constantly chew on fibrous foods to keep their teeth worn down. Actually, rodents are in the same boat as well, including beavers, mice and squirrels, to name a few. If they didn’t constantly chew, their teeth would just keep getting longer and longer. A rabbit’s teeth can grow 3 to 5 inches annually! Rabbits are herbivores, so their diets consist solely of plant material. A rabbit’s buffet menu often includes hard vegetation such as hay, tree bark,...

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 9:28 am in BLOG | Comments Off on WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

If you’ve ever wondered what the difference is between a pediatric dentist and a general dentist, Here’s your answer. A dentist is a doctor of oral health. Generally, three or more years of undergraduate education plus four years of dental school is required to graduate and become a general dentist. Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. A pediatric dentist has two to three years of specialty training following dental school and limits his/her practice to treating children only. Pediatric dentists are...

CAN SHE TIE HER SHOES?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 9:16 am in BLOG | Comments Off on CAN SHE TIE HER SHOES?

What does tying shoes have to do with teeth? Is your child is ready to brush on her own? Are you still tying your kiddo’s shoes for her, or can she manage on her own? Children’s fine motor skills are not yet fully developed at a young age, so they still your need help to do things like tying shoes and brushing teeth. The ability to tie one’s own shoes acts as a gauge for when children can then begin to brush their teeth without supervision, which is typically between the ages of 7 and 8. Of course, let smaller children flex their...

IS THAT GRANOLA BAR REALLY GOOD FOR THEM?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 7:25 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on IS THAT GRANOLA BAR REALLY GOOD FOR THEM?

Are granola and protein bars really candy bars in disguise? Yep! Probably. A couple weeks ago we talked about how fruit juice is actually not as healthy as it may seem. This week we’d like to address the health hazards disguised in protein and granola bars. It may seem like you’re giving your child a healthy snack when you hand them a granola bar after school or stick a protein bar in their lunch. But if you compare the list of ingredients and nutrition values, you might be surprised. Now while there are definitely...

IS THAT JUICE ACTUALLY GOOD FOR HER?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 5:20 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on IS THAT JUICE ACTUALLY GOOD FOR HER?

Think juice is healthier than soda? Think again. When it comes to choosing between sodas and juices in the beverage aisle, the juice industry has long benefited from a health halo. Many people perceive juice as healthier than soda, but both beverages contain about the same amount of calories and sugar! An 8-ounce serving of juice or soda typically contains about 120 to 150 calories, primarily from sugar. Juice comes from fruit, while soda is artificial. So it seems like the sugars in juice are more “natural” than high...

WHAT EXACTLY IS GOING ON?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 2:13 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on WHAT EXACTLY IS GOING ON?

How Does Sugar Damage Teeth? Not the Way You Might Think Everyone knows eating too much sugar can lead to tooth decay, but few are aware of exactly how that happens. It’s not the sugar itself that does the damage, but rather the chain of events that takes place after you eat that piece of cake. Your children may be more inclined to heed your warnings about the effects of sugar on teeth if they know about the continuous tug-of-war taking place inside their mouths. Here’s how taking certain actions can prevent tooth decay...

THE X-RAY WAS AN ACCIDENT?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 8:10 am in BLOG | Comments Off on THE X-RAY WAS AN ACCIDENT?

Did you know the X-ray was an accident? On November 8th, 1895, German physicist, Wilhelm Roentgen accidentally discovered the X-ray. While working in his laboratory in Würzburg conducting experiments with a Crookes tube – basically a glass gas bulb that gives off fluorescent light when a high-voltage current is passed through it – Roentgen noticed that the beam turned a screen nine feet away a greenish fluorescent color, despite the tube being shielded by heavy black cardboard. He concluded, correctly, that he was dealing with a new...

TO CANDY OR NOT TO CANDY

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 6:03 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on TO CANDY OR NOT TO CANDY

Candy-free Trick-or-treat The Teal Pumpkin Project With Halloween right around the corner, you might have seen “The Teal Pumpkin Project” being posted on social media. If you don’t know what that is, in a nutshell, it’s another treat option for kids with allergies who need to stay away from candy. So much of the traditional Halloween candy is a big no-no for kids with allergies to milk, eggs, nuts, wheat, and soy. Here’s the low-down, in 2014, Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) launched The Teal Pumpkin...

SHE HAS NO TEETH TO BRUSH!

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 1:37 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on SHE HAS NO TEETH TO BRUSH!

What do you mean, I need to brush my baby’s mouth? She has no teeth! Brushing your baby’s mouth should start even BEFORE she has her first tooth. After each feeding (whether breastfeeding or formula feeding), wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, wet cloth. The bacteria which causes cavities start to develop in your baby’s mouth beginning at birth. The bacteria latch on to areas like the tongue, gums and even tonsils. By wiping the gums after you feed or nurse your baby, you reduce the amount of “food”...

SUMMER FUN

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 7:54 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on SUMMER FUN

For summer fun with the kids Try these 101 ideas Keep kids from getting bored this summer and create memories that they’ll have for a lifetime (or at least for that first day of school when they’re asked “what did you do this summer?”). Want help making your way through this list? Print it out for your babysitter or nanny to do with your kids. 1. Bake cookies for ice cream sandwiches. 2. Volunteer at a nature center. 3. Make a photo journal or a family yearbook. 4. Have a luau in the backyard. 5. Visit the beach and...

ARE X-RAYS ALWAYS NECESSARY?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 10:59 am in BLOG | Comments Off on ARE X-RAYS ALWAYS NECESSARY?

Why should X-rays be taken if my child has never had a cavity? Even though pediatric dentists are considered super heroes by some, unfortunately, we were not given the power of X-ray vision! Parents will often ask why we recommend their child, with a healthy and beautiful smile, have X-rays taken of their teeth. There are a few reasons; there are many parts of a tooth and its supporting structures that are hidden by either close contacts or tissues. It is important, especially at a child’s initial dental visit, to utilize all available...

THUMB SUCKING AND THE OLDER CHILD

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 4:39 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on THUMB SUCKING AND THE OLDER CHILD

My 6-year-old still sucks her thumb. Is this hurting her teeth and any advice to help her stop? A common question we often get is about older kids and thumb sucking. Parents want to know how much it’s hurting their child’s teeth and how can they can help their child to stop. Sucking on a thumb or finger is normal for infants and young children and most children stop on their own. However, if a child doesn’t stop on their own, we do advise parents to discourage the habit ideally after age 3. After the age of 3, it becomes harder...

SPECIAL ATTENTION FOR SPECIAL NEEDS

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 5:24 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on SPECIAL ATTENTION FOR SPECIAL NEEDS

5 great tips for helping kids with special needs brush their teeth Sometimes, it’s an uphill battle getting any kid to brush their teeth, but encouraging children who have special needs can pose unique challenges. Among other things, oral sensitivity and fine-motor-skill issues can make the simple task of brushing teeth almost too much. Parents can get so overwhelmed with all the other simple duties of caring for a special needs child that oral health and hygiene can end up lower on the priority list. As we always preach, the goal for...

A TOOTH STORY

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 3:04 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on A TOOTH STORY

Teething: As Told By a Baby Tooth All parents know teething can be a stressful and trying time filled with sleepless nights. Here are five things parents need to know to navigate the teething landscape, straight from the source – the little tooth that can be a big pain for babies, parents and caregivers alike! You can expect me to show up around the time your little one is 6 – 8 months old. But please have patience! Sometimes I need a little more time, and will arise around 12 – 14 months of age. You will know when I’m about to arrive because...

SPRING + EASTER = GARDEN EASTER BASKET

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 5:16 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on SPRING + EASTER = GARDEN EASTER BASKET

With Spring in the air and Easter right around the corner, here’s a fun candy-free alternative to the typical Easter Basket. This Easter, rather than chocolate eggs and jellybeans, why not fill your kiddo’s basket with gardening fun? Include seeds packets of veggies and flowers along with a fun pair of gardening gloves and some little garden tools. Gardening is a healthy, fun activity for children, helping them to develop new skills and learn about science and nature from growing their own food. Here are some suggestions to get...

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 12:36 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY

Be good to your kids’ teeth this Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day goes hand-in-hand with candy. Colored candy hearts and chocolate abound! As tempting as it may be to indulge your kiddos in something rich and sweet this Valentine’s Day, remember that sticky, sugary treats are not good for their teeth. They can indulge a little bit, just be sure to have them brush their teeth after their candy hearts. As an alternative to a box of chocolates, we found this sweet and adorable recipe for a breakfast your kiddos are sure to love on Valentine’s...

MAKING ORAL HYGIENE FUN!

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 11:53 am in BLOG | Comments Off on MAKING ORAL HYGIENE FUN!

Turning a Chore Into a Habit Most parents know that good oral hygiene is very important and that kids should brush twice a day for two minutes each time, but that can be easier said than done. It can be challenging to get children in the routine of brushing their teeth. Below are a few fun ideas to get your kids excited about brushing their teeth in order to keep those pesky Mouth Monsters away. Start a routine and stick with it: It can be tempting to skip brushing your child’s teeth (or your own teeth) after a long day, or perhaps even when...

IS YOUR CHILD AT RISK?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 2:20 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on IS YOUR CHILD AT RISK?

Is Your Child at a High Risk for Tooth Decay? Tooth decay in children is happening earlier than ever—some dentists are even seeing children with cavities in their baby teeth! Keeping your child’s mouth healthy can not only prevent cavities, but also help children to understand just how important their teeth are. Even baby teeth are crucial for guiding adult teeth into their proper places. Protect your child from tooth decay by knowing your child’s risk. Which children have the highest risk for developing tooth decay? Those Without a Regular...

FAMILY, FRIENDS, FOOD AND …TOOTHBRUSHES?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 4:05 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on FAMILY, FRIENDS, FOOD AND …TOOTHBRUSHES?

Thanksgiving, a Time to Give Thanks. Even for Modern Dental Care During the first Thanksgiving, the Pilgrims and American Indians harvested, hunted, and feasted on a great deal of food. We know from history that many people had poor dental health in those times. In fact, some may have had only a few teeth or possibly no teeth due to tooth decay and gum disease. Today, we have ways to prevent many dental care problems and to treat issues when they develop…thankfully! Five Advances in Modern Dental Care to be thankful for Toothbrushes:...

Tainted Tongue

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 4:42 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on Tainted Tongue

Q. Does my child need to brush his tongue? A. Yes! It is common knowledge for most parents and kids to brush their teeth for two minutes, two times each day, but many parents and caregivers might not know the importance of brushing their little one’s tongue. The majority of the bacteria in your mouth are on your tongue and while a tongue won’t get cavities like teeth, it holds bacteria like a sponge, which will eventually spread to teeth. While water and mouth wash can help dislodge particles and make their mouth feel minty fresh, they won’t...

Have a Tooth-Friendly Halloween!

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 4:32 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on Have a Tooth-Friendly Halloween!

Tips & Tricks for a Tooth-Friendly Halloween To help ward off cavities and have a a tooth-friendly Halloween, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the leading authority on children’s oral health, reminds parents and caregivers that it is important to pay attention to the types of treats children eat this Halloween. Each year Americans spend nearly $9 billion on candy. In October, much of that candy ends up on the teeth of the 41 million trick-or-treating children ages 5 – 14 across the U.S.1 However, the AAPD wants parents...

Snack Attack

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 5:11 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on Snack Attack

Let’s Talk About Teeth-Friendly Snacks It’s a no-brainer that giving your toddler low and no-sugar snacks is the way to protect their teeth. And starting them off at a young age on healthy snacks will establish a habit that can last throughout their life. But it can be tricky coming up with healthy teeth-friendly snack ideas and even tricker to keep your toddler interested in these types of snacks. We wanted to give you a list of options as well as some fun ways to keep your kiddos interested. Healthy Options Plain popcorn Yogurt mixed with...

DENTAL SEALANTS GIVE EXTRA PROTECTION

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 1:19 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on DENTAL SEALANTS GIVE EXTRA PROTECTION

What are Dental Sealants? Should my child get them? Dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating painted on the chewing surfaces of teeth – usually the back teeth (the premolars and molars) – to prevent tooth decay. The sealant quickly bonds into the depressions and grooves of the teeth, forming a protective shield over the enamel of each tooth. Although thorough brushing and flossing can remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of teeth, they cannot always get into all the nooks and crannies of the back teeth to remove...

FLOSS EVEN WHEN YOU’RE TIME-CRUNCHED

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 2:27 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on FLOSS EVEN WHEN YOU’RE TIME-CRUNCHED

To Floss or Not to Floss. That is the question. Q: Is it okay to skip flossing if I brush really well? A: NO! It’s tempting to skip the floss when you’re in a hurry and you have a fussy kiddo who is just not in the mood – haha – we’ve all been there! But flossing is not a step you should skip. Interdental cleaning helps remove debris and interproximal dental plaque, the plaque that collects between two teeth; dental floss and other interdental cleaners help clean these hard-to-reach tooth surfaces and reduce the likelihood...

IS IT GONE YET? Thorough plaque removal

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 8:27 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on IS IT GONE YET? Thorough plaque removal

A couple weeks ago, we touched on the subject of thorough plaque removal. In this article, we tell you about some of the risks associated with plaque build-up that might not be on your radar when it comes to your child’s oral hygiene. Plaque Causes Inflammation We all know that plaque can cause tooth decay and gum disease. What you probably didn’t know is that plaque can cause inflammation which is harmful to your entire body. As we age, inflammation and gum disease can cause problems you might not associate with oral hygiene. It may...

JUST SAY NO…TO BACTERIA

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 4:28 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on JUST SAY NO…TO BACTERIA

Keep Your Kiddo Smiling! Prevent Kids’ Tooth Decay You can prevent tooth decay for your kids by lowering the risk of your baby getting the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Make sure you take good care of your baby’s teeth – this reduces the number of bacteria in your baby’s mouth. Decay Prevention Tips Don’t share saliva with your baby by sharing spoons, licking their pacifiers or pre-chewing their food. After each feeding, wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp gauze pad or washcloth. This will remove plaque. When your child’s teeth...

HEALTHY MOUTH TIMELINE

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 5:22 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on HEALTHY MOUTH TIMELINE

Make Sure Your Kids Have a Healthy Mouth! Brush Twice a Day For kids under age 3, as soon as your child’s teeth start to come into the mouth, brush using a children’s toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste in an amount no more than the size of a grain of rice. For kids ages 3-6, use a pea-sized dab of fluoride toothpaste. Kids should use a soft toothbrush. The size and shape of the brush should allow them to reach all areas of their mouth. Replace toothbrushes every three to four months, sooner if the bristles are worn out or if your children...

TEETHING AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 2:26 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on TEETHING AND WHAT TO EXPECT

When baby starts chewing on everything, She’s teething – dental care is right around the corner! You know your baby is teething when she starts chewing on her fingers, her toes, her crib rails, basically anything she can get her hands – or gums on. She is feeling the urge from her baby teeth to break the surface of her gums and make their debut. Baby teeth usually appear when your baby is between 6 months and 1 year old. Dr. Dunne recommends your child have her first dental exam as soon as that first tooth pops up....

BABY TEETH CAN DECAY TOO!

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 4:34 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on BABY TEETH CAN DECAY TOO!

Baby Tooth Decay Is Real As soon as teeth start to make an appearance in your baby’s mouth, it’s possible for your baby to develop cavities. It is important to keep your baby’s gums and teeth clean to prevent tooth decay, even in baby teeth. Keep Baby’s Gums and Teeth Clean Begin cleaning your baby’s mouth during the first few days after birth. After every feeding, wipe your baby’s gums with a clean gauze pad. This removes plaque and food, and helps your baby become used to having his or her gums and teeth cleaned – and it will...

REWARDS FOR BRUSHING

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 3:48 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on REWARDS FOR BRUSHING

Keep track of your child’s brushing routine with this Rewards for Brushing chart. Give rewards for jobs well done! Reward systems are an excellent behavior modification strategy that quickly changes your child’s behavior or helps develop a new habit. A simple reward system can help her become more responsible for her behavior. Print out the Rewards for Brushing chart below and get some fun stickers that your child will love. Every time your child brushes her teeth, she gets a sticker, her reward for brushing, for her chart. Give her the...

NAVIGATING HOLIDAY TREATS FOR TEETH

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 2:06 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on NAVIGATING HOLIDAY TREATS FOR TEETH

Here come the holidays and the holiday treats! The holidays are such an exciting time. So much celebrating and gathering together! And while we celebrate, we munch away on all the amazing holiday treats. Who can resist? Unfortunately, as you enjoy the party in your mouth, all that sugar is wreaking havoc on your pearly whites. With Halloween not too far behind us and the biggest holidays of the year on the horizon, it’s good to know which sweets are the worst candy for teeth, and why. It’s also good strategy to have some healthy...

THE IMPORTANCE OF FLOSSING FOR CHILDREN

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 5:42 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on THE IMPORTANCE OF FLOSSING FOR CHILDREN

She brushes her teeth twice a day Does she really need to include flossing? Every time you bring your child in to visit the dentist for a checkup or a cleaning, you’re likely to be asked: “Has she been flossing regularly?” For a lot of parents and patients, the answer isn’t always yes. While you may make a point of having your child brush her teeth twice a day, as the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends, you might think flossing is not that important – it’s such a small area after all, right? WRONG! If...

WHITE DOTS ON TEETH

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 5:17 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on WHITE DOTS ON TEETH

Those tiny white dots on your child’s teeth can indicate a big problem! It’s time to take action. White dots on teeth are usually not cause for alarm. White dots that are smooth and shiny can just be disturbances on a developing tooth. But sometimes white dots are warning signs that the tooth is starting to decay. If they are chalky white, it means the tooth has lost its luster; some minerals have been lost. All efforts should be focused on bringing back lost minerals to the teeth before cavities set in. This is can be accomplished by:...

KEEPING IT CLEAN – TOOTHBRUSH CARE

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 4:49 pm in BLOG, HEALTHY HABITS | Comments Off on KEEPING IT CLEAN – TOOTHBRUSH CARE

Toothbrush Care Cleaning, Storing and Replacement Toothbrushing plays an important everyday role for personal oral hygiene and effective plaque removal. Appropriate toothbrush care and maintenance are also important considerations for sound oral hygiene. The ADA recommends that consumers replace toothbrushes approximately every 3–4 months or sooner if the bristles become frayed with use. The ADA recommends the following toothbrush care tips: Do not share toothbrushes. Sharing a toothbrush could result in an exchange of body...

REPAIR DAMAGED TEETH!

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 12:02 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on REPAIR DAMAGED TEETH!

Repair damaged teeth! You can do that? Who knew! Repairing damaged enamel Research has shown that the use of xylitol also helps repair damaged teeth by helping to strengthen the enamel. Saliva in itself protects the mouth and teeth. Stimulated saliva in particular contains all the components needed to repair early cavities. If sugar is only taken a couple of times a day, the saliva can do the job alone. But most people take sugar so often that the mouth’s own defensive tools are not enough. Balance Saliva PH The dental...

STRIVE FOR 5

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 10:07 am in BLOG | Comments Off on STRIVE FOR 5

We love Xylitol! New research shows that the more you use Xylitol throughout the day, the better. How much Xylitol should I use? The older research with xylitol always specified an amount 6-10 grams as being the “sweet spot”. Newer research has actually shown better how to use xylitol, and that the quantity is not the most important, but the number of exposures throughout the day. We want to get at least 4-5 exposures of 100% xylitol spread throughout the day. When products that contain HSH, sorbitol, maltitol and other...

HANDLING A DENTAL EMERGENCY

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 8:58 am in BLOG | Comments Off on HANDLING A DENTAL EMERGENCY

Can You Handle A Dental Emergency? Oral injuries during the toddling years and beyond The toddling years: a thrilling time for the child and the parent, although in vastly different ways. For toddlers, it’s all about exploration; learning to crawl and walk and being on the move as much as possible. Which can be a recipe for a dental emergency. For parents, though, it’s often a fine line between celebrating their child’s accomplishments one minute, and fretting over their safety the next. As children begin to walk, they become more...

TONGUE PIERCING – IS IT REALLY COOL?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 6:43 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on TONGUE PIERCING – IS IT REALLY COOL?

Oral Tongue Piercings in Teenagers Oral piercing of the tongue, lip and cheek may be trendy among teenagers, but the side effects can be dangerous to their teeth and mouth. If you’re thinking about giving permission to you teen to pierce their lip, cheek or tongue, be advised that such piercings come with significant risks. Many teenagers might not take the time to learn about the risks associated with oral piercings. Infection and Swelling Infections from tongue piercings are common because the tongue is covered with bacteria. Your mouth...

GOING TO THE DENTIST IS FUN!

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 8:45 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on GOING TO THE DENTIST IS FUN!

Creating a positive dental experience for your child is very important. After all, it’s an association that will last her lifetime. Help her understand that going to the dentist can be fun. A lot of adults don’t like going to the dentist, mostly because of a bad experience they had as a child. It’s important not to let your child see this. Saying negative things like “I don’t like the dentist either, but we have to do this” may seem supportive, but will only scare them even more. Remember to keep things positive and to let your child...

SUGAR-FREE FUN FOR EASTER

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 4:54 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on SUGAR-FREE FUN FOR EASTER

We have collected some fun non-candy ideas for filling your kiddo’s Easter basket. Along with a chocolate bunny, these teeth-friendly items are sure to please! The Golden (Wooden) Egg Take the drama out of your Easter egg hunt by giving everyone their very own golden egg. Paint a solid wood egg (craft stores sell them) with non-toxic paint, your chickadees will really feel like they hit the jackpot with this one. Rockin’ Bunny Jams Why should Christmas pajamas get all the glory? Bring a little life into your kiddo’s sleeping...

AN APPLE A DAY?

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 4:50 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on AN APPLE A DAY?

10 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Damaging Your Teeth Everybody knows that candy and other sugary foods damage teeth, but how about apples? You’ve heard time and again that brushing & flossing is the best way to keep your teeth healthy. But some foods can cause enough damage to warrant extra cleanings. There are two main elements of food that damage your pearly whites: sugar and acid. Sugars, especially sucrose (table sugar), feed the millions of bacteria already in your mouth. Bacteria feast on your plaque buildup and produce lactic...

HOW FLUORIDE WORKS

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 12:12 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on HOW FLUORIDE WORKS

What does fluoride really do for teeth? It makes teeth stronger and even repairs small cavities! Have you ever wondered how fluoride works – what it actually does – to protect your teeth and make them stronger? Here we explain just what happens when you apply fluoride to your teeth, as well as, how it works when ingested. How fluoride works Acids from plaque cause the loss of minerals from the tooth (a process called demineralization), resulting in tooth decay. The formation of small cavities, or carious lesions, can...

TOOTH ERUPTION IN PRIMARY TEETH

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 3:11 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on TOOTH ERUPTION IN PRIMARY TEETH

How cute is that first baby tooth? Especially when your she flashes you that sweet little smile! You might not think of a newborn as having teeth. However, at birth the crowns of the 20 “baby” or primary teeth are almost completely formed, and they are hidden from view in an infant’s jawbones. The primary teeth gradually erupt through the gums during the first 2 1 ⁄2 years of life. The four front teeth—two upper and two lower— usually erupt first, beginning as early as six months after birth. Most children have a full set of primary...

SOMETHING TO BE THANKFUL FOR

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 8:11 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on SOMETHING TO BE THANKFUL FOR

This Thanksgiving, Be Thankful for Modern Dental Care Not to mention just the humble toothbrush During the first Thanksgiving, the Pilgrims and American Indians harvested, hunted, and feasted on a great deal of food. We know from history that many people had poor dental health in those times. In fact, some may have had only a few teeth or possibly no teeth due to tooth decay and gum disease. Today, we have ways to prevent many dental care problems and to treat issues when they develop. Five Advances in Modern Dental Care Toothbrushes: The...

DENTAL SEALANTS – PROTECTING THAT SMILE YOU LOVE

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 10:06 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on DENTAL SEALANTS – PROTECTING THAT SMILE YOU LOVE

As parents, we all want to protect our children, and protecting that smile you love to see everyday, is a part of that. Dental sealants may be able to help. Dental sealants act as a barrier to prevent cavities. They are a plastic material usually applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and molars) where decay occurs most often. Thorough brushing and flossing help remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of teeth. But toothbrush bristles cannot reach all the way into the depressions and grooves to...

A NEW TWIST ON HALLOWEEN TREATS

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 4:45 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on A NEW TWIST ON HALLOWEEN TREATS

Treats you don’t eat, can be really neat! Obviously, as your child’s dentist, we are big advocates of low-sugar and no-sugar halloween treats. Last week we shared a few yummy ideas with you to the traditional Halloween candy. This week, we are offering a radical idea. NON-FOOD TREATS! You might be wondering if kids really like the non-food option; they don’t just like them, they love them! Finding a unique treat at your house will be a fun surprise. Glow bracelets, for example, are a great option. They are inexpensive, kids can...

HALLOWEEN CANDY CAN BE A FRIGHT!

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 7:56 am in BLOG, HEALTHY HABITS | Comments Off on HALLOWEEN CANDY CAN BE A FRIGHT!

Sugar isn’t the only scary thing in your children’s Halloween candy. Halloween, 1950: Children became ill after consuming candies with food coloring Orange No. 1, which became subsequently banned in the United States. But that doesn’t mean mass-market Halloween candies aren’t still seriously scary. Possibly the worst additives in commercial candies are artificial colors, which are considered by many to be toxic, and even possible carcinogens and contributors to ADHD. Orange No. 1 isn’t alone on the ban list. Red No. 2...

PROTECT THOSE PEARLY WHITES OUT ON THE FIELD OR ON THE COURT

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 4:47 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on PROTECT THOSE PEARLY WHITES OUT ON THE FIELD OR ON THE COURT

A custom-fit mouthguard is a necessity for a child who plays sports According to the American Association of Orthodontists, research indicates that 80% of trips to the emergency room, related to sports injuries, are for children between the ages of 5 and 14. Your child does not need to contribute to this misfortune. This statistic can be drastically reduced, in your family, by properly worn mouthguards, along with other safety equipment while sports are being played. Soft plastic mouthguards can be used to protect a child’s teeth, lips,...

LABOR DAY IS ON IT’S WAY

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 5:54 pm in NUTRITION | Comments Off on LABOR DAY IS ON IT’S WAY

Picnics, Barbecues & Camping, oh my! The Labor Day Weekend is upon us. Labor Day is right around the corner. Sharing food and late-summer fun with family and friends is always a fun way to see out the summer season. However, some of the most popular items consumed during the labor day holiday are actually the worst for your teeth. We’re talking CORN ON THE COB, SODA & RIBS! While your taste buds might be shouting for joy, your teeth are a little less excited. Unfortunately, corn and rib meat easily gets stuck in between your...

YOU WANT TO TAKE AWAY MY WHAT?!

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 2:03 pm in BLOG | Comments Off on YOU WANT TO TAKE AWAY MY WHAT?!

Cold Turkey: How to Convince Baby It’s Time to Part from the Pacifier Tips on weaning your child from the pacifier, including different approaches that can reduce stress for both kids and parents when trying to “ban the binky!” Many parents are thankful for the invention of pacifiers that can help calm and soothe fussy babies. Infants often use a pacifier or suck on a thumb for comfort, security or simply as a method to make contact with the world. In fact, some babies begin to suck on their fingers or thumbs even before they are born! The...

BABY’S FIRST TRIP TO THE DENTIST

Posted by Dr. Dennis Dunne DDS on 8:52 am in BLOG | Comments Off on BABY’S FIRST TRIP TO THE DENTIST

My baby only has one tooth! Does she really need to go to the dentist yet? This is a common misconception. Although your child only has one or two teeth on her first birthday, it is still necessary to bring her in for her first appointment. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have a dental check-up at least twice a year, beginning on their first birthday. It might seem like overkill to bring your baby to the dentist on her first birthday, after all, she only has one or two teeth. You might think it more...

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