Lombard Pediatric Dentist
About Pediatric Dentistry
How Important is Your Child’s First Baby Tooth?
As parents we do everything we can to help our kids grow big and strong, but we might not think twice about a lost baby tooth! Although baby teeth are eventually replaced by adult teeth, keeping them healthy throughout the fundamental years of your child’s dental health is key to building a good foundation of healthy, carefree smiles throughout their lives. If your child has recently discovered their first baby tooth, it’s time for them to meet their kid-friendly dentist in Lombard and experience positive memories for all of their future dental appointments.
Healthy Teeth From The First Tooth
When your children’s dental health is affected, their immune systems are, too. At Brett Blacher DDS we help your child’s teeth stay clean and protected so they can continue enjoying their school days, playdates and slumber parties in their best health! Our supportive team environment uses fun and engaging treatments at their six month cleanings to teach healthy preventive tips at home and reduce the need for larger (or more expensive) reparative treatments in the future. When you schedule your six month appointment for your child’s visit with Dr. Brett Blacher, you are setting them up for positive experiences at the dentist and better oral health success. Give us a call at 630-916-0701 to schedule an appointment!
What Is Tooth Decay, And How Can It Be Prevented?
Tooth decay refers to the softening of the enamel, which is the hard, dense, and strong outer layer of our teeth.
If bacteria are not removed from your mouth by brushing and flossing, it begins to attack and softens the enamel of the tooth. Minor tooth decay is often referred to as “soft spots.” Cavities occur when soft spots are left untreated, eventually creating a hole in the tooth. Once a cavity is fully formed, it must be treated with a filling or crown. If cavities are left untreated for too long, they can progress until they reach the interior of the tooth, causing a tooth infection.
The best way to prevent tooth decay is with proper dental hygiene. Your children should brush twice a day, and have their teeth flossed once per day. In addition, you should see a pediatric dentist like Dr. Blacher every six months for a checkup, to make sure we catch tooth decay early and treat it right away.
Why Are Kids At A Higher Risk Of Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay is the most common preventable childhood illness. Children are at a higher risk of tooth decay due to many factors, including diet and improper brushing habits. The more sugar your child consumes, the more likely they are to develop cavities. Your children should avoid sugary drinks like soda and juice, and eat a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and other healthy, low-sugar foods. When possible it can also help to minimize snacking because eating a small amount of food over a longer period of time allows more bacteria and acid to build up in the mouth.
Improper oral hygiene is also a big risk factor for children. You should always supervise your child when brushing, to make sure they are brushing properly 2-3 times per day for two minutes each session.
What Can I Do To Prepare My Child For A Dental Appointment?
The most important thing you can do is be positive. Make going to the dentist seem fun and routine. If you seem anxious and nervous, your child will be able to tell!
You should also be honest about what’s going to happen. Tell your child that the dentist is going to look at their teeth and make sure that they’re clean and healthy, and that the dentist will help them learn more about their mouth. Kids love to learn new things, and at the office of Dr. Blacher, we take an informative, educational approach to pediatric dentistry.
When Should I Schedule My Child’s First Dental Appointment?
Ideally, your child should see the dentist for the first time once they’ve turned 1, or when their first tooth erupts. This may seem early, but regular visits to the dentist can help us track your child’s oral health and development. Seeing the dentist from a very young age also helps your child become more familiar with the process, so they’ll feel more comfortable at the dentist in the future.
Homework for Parents
Families who brush together, floss together! When your child mirrors your healthy dental hygiene habits at home, they’ll feel more excited to practice great dental hygiene on their own. Plenty of options of flavored mouthwashes, toothpastes, and colorful toothbrushes now exist. Brushing your teeth is much more fun when your toothpaste tastes great and your toothbrush has a fun design on the front! Have you created your own toothbrush song and dance yet? Brushing and flossing can become an interactive game when the whole family participates!
Good Job Kids!
Rewarding your child for their great dental hygiene will give them a sense of accomplishment and confidence about their smiles and dental health. When brushing and flossing together makes it fun for your child to enjoy brushing their, they’ll want to share their inspiring pearly whites with everyone they meet! Of course, our dental office in Lombard is nearby to keep your children’s smiles healthy and strong with regular six month appointments. Give us a call at 630-916-0701 to schedule your appointment!
“We provide the most conservative treatments possible to fix your dental problem and provide the best long term solution for your dental health and smile.”
At Brett Blacher DDS, dentistry isn’t just about repairing teeth--it’s about improving the long term health of every patient through care that is personal to each client. We talk to each patient as a person first, understanding their specific needs and helping them achieve a level of health they never thought was possible before, so they can enjoy their smiles for years to come with a dentist they can trust.
Dr. Brett Blacher
