Category

Children’s Dentistry

Jun 12
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happy little boy sitting on the floor

6 Ways to Prevent Children’s Cavities

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Cavities are areas of tooth decay, which can quickly become large problems for our little ones’ smiles. Luckily, our children’s dentistry clinic is here to help you take proactive measures to reduce the risk of children’s cavities. 

Give your child the gift of a healthy smile with the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. With locations in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW, we make dental care a breeze. So, give our Coffs Harbour team a ring at (02) 6652-3242 or our Woolgoolga team a call at (02) 6654-0650 to get started! 

Did you know that children’s cavities are one of the most common chronic diseases experienced in childhood? However, proper oral hygiene and a few proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of cavities. Here are six effective ways to prevent children’s cavities.

1. Establish a Consistent Oral Hygiene Routine

From an early age, teach your child the importance of daily and nightly brushing. Using fluoridated toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush, show them how to brush properly, ensuring they clean all sides of their teeth, including the front, back, and chewing areas. 

Additionally, introduce flossing once their teeth start to touch, as flossing removes pieces of food and plaque between teeth that a toothbrush simply can’t.

2. Choose a Tooth-Friendly Diet

Keep an eye on your child’s intake of sweet foods and drinks, as sugar is a primary contributor to children’s cavities. Encourage healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, cheese, and yogurt, which are less likely to cause cavities. 

Water should be the beverage of choice, especially between meals, as it helps rinse away debris and bacteria. 

3. Regular Dental Checkups

Experts recommend booking your kiddo’s first dental trip between the ages of six to 12 months. Regular checkups, typically every six months, allow our team to monitor your child’s dental development, clean their teeth professionally, and catch any early signs of children’s cavities. 

4. Use Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride toughens tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to decay. So, ensure your child is getting enough fluoride, which can be found in toothpaste, certain mouthwashes, and sometimes in the community water supply. 

Our children’s dentists may recommend additional fluoride treatments during routine checkups, especially if your child is at a higher risk for cavities. These treatments are quick, painless, and highly effective in preventing tooth decay.

5. Apply Dental Sealants

Sealants create a barrier that prevents bits of food and invading bacteria from getting trapped in the grooves of the teeth. The procedure is simple and painless, and it can provide years of protection. 

6. Educate and Encourage Good Habits

Use songs, timers, or reward charts to motivate kids to perform daily oral hygiene routines. And don’t forget to lead by example—let your child see you brushing and flossing regularly! 

Prevent Children’s Cavities at Magic Smiles Dental & Implant Centre

Preventing cavities in children requires a combination of good oral hygiene practices, a healthy diet, regular dental visits, and preventive treatments like fluoride and sealants. So, be proactive – schedule a children’s dentistry appointment in Coffs Harbour or Woolgoolga, NSW, online here!

Apr 11
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portrait of four children laying on floor smiling

Understanding the Distinction: Children’s Dentistry vs. General Dentistry

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

In the realm of dental medicine, one size certainly doesn’t fit all. Just as pediatricians specialize in caring for children’s medical needs, children’s dentists are specially trained to address the unique oral health requirements of infants, children, and adolescents. But what exactly sets children’s dentistry apart from general dentistry?

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, our team specializes in dentistry for the whole family, including children’s dentistry. If your little one needs a check-up, contact our pediatric dentists in Woolgoolga, NSW, at (02) 6654-0650 or in Coffs Harbour, NSW, at (02) 6652-3242.

So, what’s the difference between children’s dentistry and general dentistry? Let’s delve into the distinctions to gain a clearer understanding.

Specialized Training and Expertise

Children’s dentists must seek extensive training beyond dental school to specialize in pediatric oral health. 

This training encompasses child psychology, behavior management, growth and development, and the treatment of dental issues specific to children. 

Focus on Prevention and Education

Children’s dentistry places a strong emphasis on preventive care and education. 

Kid’s dentists work closely with parents and caregivers to instill good oral hygiene habits from an early age, including:

  • Dietary guidance
  • Proper brushing and flossing techniques
  • The importance of regular dental check-ups

Child-Centered Approach

A child-centered environment helps alleviate anxiety and fear associated with dental visits, making dental visits more enjoyable for young patients. That’s why many dentists offer entertainment, prizes, and incentives geared specifically toward children. 

Additionally, family dentists employ specialized behavior management techniques to ensure children feel comfortable and cooperative during treatment.

Treatment of Primary Teeth

Children’s dentistry encompasses the care of primary teeth, also known as milk or baby teeth. 

While some may dismiss primary teeth as temporary placeholders, they play a pivotal role in a child’s oral development. Children’s dentists are adept at diagnosing and treating issues specific to primary teeth, such as:

  • Early orthodontic problems
  • Cavities
  • Tooth decay

Orthodontic Evaluation and Intervention

Kid’s dentists are trained to assess the alignment and development of a child’s teeth and jaws. 

Early detection of orthodontic issues (which often occurs around the age of seven or eight) allows for timely intervention to guide proper dental growth and prevent more severe problems later in life. 

By working closely with orthodontists, children’s dentists can coordinate comprehensive care to ensure optimal oral health outcomes.

Management of Dental Anxiety and Special Needs

Children’s dentistry addresses the unique needs of anxious or special needs patients with compassion and sensitivity. 

Family dentists are skilled in communicating with children of all ages and abilities, adapting their approach to accommodate individual preferences and comfort levels. 

This inclusive approach fosters trust and confidence in dental care, empowering every child to achieve a healthy smile.

General Dentistry Explained

In contrast, general dentistry caters to patients of all ages, providing a broad range of dental services to adults and children alike. 

However, many general dentists choose to see adult and teen patients only. This means that they may lack the specialized training and resources necessary to address the specific needs of pediatric patients.

Children’s Dentistry in Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga, NSW

Children’s dentistry offers a skilled approach to oral health care specially tailored to the unique needs of your little ones. If you want to ensure your children receive the highest standard of care in a warm and welcoming setting, contact Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today! 

Reach our pediatric dentists in Woolgoolga, NSW, at (02) 6654-0650 or our team in Coffs Harbour, NSW, at (02) 6652-3242, or submit a request for a children’s dentistry appointment here!

Feb 20
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little girl smiles after visiting a children’s dentistry centre in New South Wales.

Five Facts Every Parent Should Know About Children’s Dentistry

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Taking care of your child’s dental health is an important aspect of their overall health and well-being. As a parent, you accomplish this by encouraging good oral hygiene at home and scheduling yearly dental visits. But, there may be some things about children’s dentistry (read more about children’s dentistry here) that you don’t know about.

 

Is it time for your child’s next dental visit? If so, schedule a children’s dentistry appointment with the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. With two beautiful locations in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour, we make pediatric dental care a breeze. Give our team a call today to get started now!

 

As a parent, it’s important to understand the basics of children’s dentistry to ensure your child receives the best possible care. In this blog post, we share some facts about children’s dentistry that we think every parent should know about.

Kids’ Teeth Differ From Adult Teeth

Children’s teeth are different from adult teeth in several ways. For one, they are smaller and have thinner enamel. This is significant, as thinner enamel means that your child’s teeth are more prone to decay. As a result, preventive dental care is exceptionally important for children.

 

Children’s teeth also have different shapes and sizes, and they are fewer in quantity, too. This dental eruption chart demonstrates the size, location, and amount of teeth that children typically have. You may notice that children only have 20 baby teeth compared to adults’ 32 permanent teeth.

Children Need to See a Dentist by Their First Birthday

Experts recommend that kids visit a children’s dentistry centre by their first birthday. However, if your child begins cutting their first teeth, then you should schedule a dental visit for them within six months of their first erupted tooth.

 

Early visits to a children’s dentistry centre allows a dentist to proactively assess your child’s dental health. This is beneficial, as it allows them to provide guidance on how to care for your child’s teeth as they grow.

Baby Teeth Are Very Important

Many parents believe that baby teeth aren’t important because they will eventually fall out. However, baby teeth serve several important functions, including:

  • Helping your child chew and speak properly
  • Maintaining space for permanent teeth to come in
  • Ensuring proper jaw development

 

Without healthy baby teeth, your child may struggle to thrive.

Fluoride Is a Valuable Children’s Dentistry Treatment

Fluoride is an important mineral that helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening dental enamel. Because children have thinner tooth enamel, it is crucial for children to get enough fluoride. Yearly visits to a children’s dentistry centre are a great way to ensure that your children are getting sufficient fluoride for optimal oral health.

Sealants Protect Growing Smiles

Dental sealants are particularly useful for children, as their molars are more prone to decay and damage than adult teeth.

 

Similar to fluoride, dental sealants are a great way to protect your little ones’ smiles as they grow. Sealants are a thin coating that a dentist applies to vulnerable teeth (usually the molars) to prevent cavities. 

Schedule a Children’s Dentistry Appointment Today

Is it time for your little one to visit a children’s dentistry in New South Wales? Let Magic Smiles Dental & Implant Centre be your one-stop-shop for all of your child’s dental health needs. Conveniently schedule your child’s appointment now by submitting a request online here.

 

Apr 10
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Children’s Dentistry Expert Explains: Everything You Need to Know about Teething and First Teeth

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

With a trusted children’s dentist and some accurate information, parents should have everything they need to take excellent care of their infant’s oral health. In this article, you’ll find some interesting facts about preventive oral care for babies, teething, and first teeth. We’ll also provide helpful tips and information to help you through the trials of teething.

Should you have questions or need a children’s dentist in the Coffs Harbour area, call Magic Smiles and schedule an appointment with our family-friendly dental team. We provide gentle, professional dental care for children, and we enjoy teaching parents how to take great care of their baby’s oral health, even before teeth erupt. 

Let’s start now with what you can expect inside your little one’s mouth in the first 36 months of his or her life. 

Daily Oral Care for Infants

Many parents are unaware that the bacteria that cause cavities is transmitted to an infant through his parents’ saliva. This occurs through kisses, sharing utensils, and other instances when the parent’s saliva enters the baby’s mouth, and this is completely natural. Though the infant has no teeth, the bacteria reside in the mouth until teeth erupt. 

Cleaning your infant’s mouth before and after teeth erupt is important. Before teeth erupt, use a soft, clean, wet cloth to gently rub the baby’s gums, tongue, and the interior of his cheeks. Repeat this a few times a week or daily.

Teething

Between ages three and six months, your baby should begin teething. You’ll notice symptoms that include but are not limited to:

  • Excessive drooling
  • Swollen, red gums
  • Slight cough
  • Fussiness and irritability
  • Lack of nighttime sleep
  • Disturbance in his eating pattern
  • Gnawing on his hands, toys, and anything else within reach
  • A slight temperature, usually under 101

Teething is uncomfortable, but you can soothe your baby’s pain by offering a refrigerated (not frozen) teething toy or spoon; gently rubbing his gums with your clean finger; offering a teething biscuit; or, with your pediatrician’s approval, giving the baby an appropriate dose of an infant pain reliever. Note that over-the-counter pain relievers are only appropriate for babies over 6 months of age.

Expect teething to occur on and off throughout the baby’s first few years.

First Teeth

Though all infants are different, for most, the lower center teeth erupt one after the other, followed by the top center teeth. Next come the two teeth on either side of the top center teeth, then those on either side of the bottom center teeth. 

By three years of age, your little one will probably have all 20 primary teeth, also called baby teeth or temporary teeth.

Care for your baby’s teeth by using an infant toothbrush and un-fluoridated infant toothpaste or water. Brush in the morning and evening, and when multiple teeth erupt you can add flossing to the routine. Also, only allow your baby or toddler to fall asleep with a bottle or cup that contains water. Milk, juice, and other beverages can cause a painful, destructive dental condition called baby bottle tooth decay.

Your Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga Children’s Dentist

Our team at Magic Smiles wants to partner with you to help your little ones enjoy healthy teeth and bright smiles when their teeth erupt and throughout life. Call us today at one of our three locations or complete a contact form on our website to schedule a consultation for you or an appointment for your baby. 

Jan 14
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Child brushing her teeth

How to Make Children’s Dentistry Fun for Your Little One

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Dental visits are not just for adults; children’s dentistry, particularly preventative exams and cleans, can set the stage for lifelong oral health. As a parent, however, you know that trips to the dentist can be scary for young kids. It’s a new experience, and the unfamiliar sights and sounds can leave them feeling vulnerable. Fortunately, the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre has lots of experience treating young patients. With our compassion and sense of humor, we can help them feel comfortable. Plus, there are steps you can take as a family to make your child’s dental visit a pleasant and easy experience. 

1. Practice Good Dental Hygiene at Home

When kids aren’t used to dental treatment in any capacity, a visit to the dentist’s office will be very alarming. More importantly, good dental care at home can prevent serious damage to both baby and permanent adult teeth. Alarmingly, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that between 2012 and 2014, approximately 42% of children had developed cavities in their baby teeth!

Regular brushing and flossing is the best way to prevent decay. When babies first start teething, parents should wipe the teeth with a soft cloth or baby toothbrush. After 18 months, parents should begin using small amounts of fluoride toothpaste.

2. Visit the Dentist from a Young Age

Kids also should visit the dentist early on. Not only will this ensure optimal dental health. It will also make office visits a normal and expected occasion. We recommend that children see us when their first tooth comes in or when they reach age one.  

3. Talk about What to Expect

Before coming to our office, be sure to talk to your child about what they can expect. If you have been in the habit of regular brushing, you can explain that a dental clean is a lot like what they already do at home. Be sure to set a good example for your child. Let them know that, just like they have to visit the dentist, mom and dad have regular dental cleans, too!

4. Read Books about the Dentist

Books about the dentist can normalize the whole process! When children can identify with their favorite storybook heroes, the whole visit can seem like a grand adventure. Some good books include: 

  • Peppa Pig: Dentist Trip 
  • Going to the Dentist by Anne Civardi
  • Does a Tiger Go to the Dentist? by Harriet Ziefert 
  • The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist by Stan and Jan Berenstain

5. Choose the Right Practice for Children’s Dentistry

Of course, the best way to make dental visits easy for both you and your child is to choose the right pediatric dentist. Make sure you select someone who has experience working with kids and knows how to make the process fun for them. You should also find a practice that can provide a wide range of pediatric services. While exams and cleans are important, you also want to establish a relationship with a doctor who can provide more advanced procedures should they become necessary. 

Book a Children’s Dentistry Visit Today

At Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre, we love working with kids! Our gentle demeanor, smiles, and jokes make the experience fun for little ones. We serve families and patients of all ages in Coffs Harbor and Woolgoolga. To book an appointment with a member of our team contact us online or give us a call at (02) 6654-0650.

Dec 22
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A large family smiles after receiving excellent care with dentists in Coffs Harbour

How to Find a Friendly Family Dentist Near Me

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Are you searching for a consistent, faithful “family dentist near me” that can do it all? Family-focused dentists undergo training to serve every stage of life in preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. Here are four measures that people can take to make sure that they choose a suitable family dentist.

1. Search “family dentist near me.”

“Near me” searches are location-based searches. When conducting “near me searches,” Google uses GPS (Global Positioning System) to deliver results that are closest to the searcher’s current location. Typing in “family dentist near me” is a simple phrase that can help you find dentists near you.

2. Check out photos of previous work.

Most of us have heard the cliche, “a picture is worth a thousand words.” Yet, they may be worth even more than that. Humans are highly visual creatures, and we have observed the world around us since birth. In fact, our eyes work with our brain to decode and understand pictures. According to scientists at MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), half the human brain is devoted directly or indirectly to vision. Because humans are hardwired to use images to support understanding, photographs of previous work can help prospective patients understand:

  • What a dental team has already accomplished
  • Predict the quality and types of services a dentist can perform for them in the future

3. Visit the practice (virtually).

Before, families could visit dental offices to meet a few members of a dental team and feel the ambiance of a clinic. Even with current Public Health Orders and Restrictions, you can still learn more about a practice by visiting their website:

4. Consider online reviews.

With access to information at our fingertips, it’s wise to research others’ opinions and experiences before committing to a practice. Families should look for two things: positive and negative reviews:

  • Positive reviews are a sign that patients are satisfied with their care. Does the dentist offer comprehensive services? What extra steps does the family dentist take to improve the patient’s experience?
  • The key to understanding negative reviews is not necessarily concerned about what the patient complained about, and it’s even more critical to focus on how the dental practice handled the complaint. Were they understanding, polite, and professional? Did they solve the complaint swiftly?

After appointments, patients are encouraged to leave honest feedback on Google, Facebook, and more. Here are some sentiments that our patients had to say about Magic Smiles Woogoolga:

  • “Had three fillings today, and I don’t like needles, so I did it without the needles. The surgeons were so good and patient and fast. No needles weren’t a problem! My teeth feel amazing, and I have never liked a dentist until now!”
  • “Very knowledgeable and competent dentist.”
  • “Great Family and Specialist Dental Practice in Woolgoolga”
  • “Best dentist in my life. Thank you soooooo much!”
  • “Professional, friendly, and felt at ease as soon as I arrived. Great work, Dr. Arpit, and team!”

Woolgoogla Family Dentist Near Me

Searching for a dentist in Woolgoolga, NSW, and surrounding areas that can treat every family member? Look no further. Dr. Arpit Pathak is an exceptionally highly rated dentist that helps patients achieve healthier, more brilliant smiles. At Magic Smiles Dental & Implant Centre, Dr. Pathak offers extensive dental treatments in an attempt to meet most needs. To schedule an initial consultation with a Woolgoolga Family Dentist today:

Sep 23
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smiling baby with two baby teeth

Ask a Coffs Harbour Dentist: Why are baby teeth important?

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Many parents wonder why their children’s baby teeth are important since those teeth will eventually fall out. Even though baby (or primary) teeth are replaced with adult teeth, primary teeth are still important and directly impact your child’s development and health.

1. Jaw Development and Dental Alignment

Baby teeth hold space in your child’s jaw as permanent, adult teeth grow underneath the gums. After the baby teeth fall out, their position helps guide the adult teeth into place. They aid in developing jawbones and facial muscles that support children’s faces to look more balanced and functional. Also, straight teeth are easier to clean because they have fewer nooks and crannies that can trap disease-causing bacteria and food particles. 

2. Cavities and Gum Disease

Baby teeth must be taken care of with regular dental exams, low sugar and carb diet, and at-home oral hygiene routines. These practices help prevent the development of gum disease by reducing plaque (a sticky bacterial film). Bacteria overgrowth, poor oral hygiene diets, and high in sugars and starches put children at risk for dental decay and gum infections.

Cavities

In March 2021, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reported that around 4 in 10 Australian children aged 5-10 experienced cavities in their baby teeth. Cavities are a dental infection that enlarges over several months or years and may cause a need for baby root canals and crowns. Additionally, cavities can cause discomfort and swelling.

Gum Disease

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease and affects 21.8% of Australian children. Gingivitis is caused by plaque buildup on the teeth. Over time, oral infection migrates to the gums and causes inflammation, swelling, and bleeding. Gingivitis is treatable and reversible with professional dental cleanings and efficient, consistent brushing and flossing.

3. Eating

Digestive System

The first step of digestion begins in the mouth. Chewing foods thoroughly breaks up foods so that they can be digested easier. Damaged teeth and dental pain can make it more challenging to chew. When children swallow their food too quickly and without chewing correctly, they risk choking and extending the digestion process.

Nutrition

Also, a versatile, nourishing diet is filled with a cornucopia of textures and flavors. Unfortunately, chewy, coarse foods can be difficult to bite and chew if the teeth feel sore. Also, spicy, acidic foods can aggravate toothaches. When kids restrict their diets due to dental pain, it can be more challenging to achieve their nutritional goals and become picky eaters.

4. Speaking

When the teeth don’t align properly, kids have a higher risk of developing speech problems. Again, baby teeth guide teeth into their permanent position. Overbite, overcrowding, and gapped teeth can create various speech problems, including lisping, whistling sounds, and general distortion of letter sounds. Speech impediments can make it more difficult for others to understand them.

Additionally, self-esteem in children is associated with how they view themselves, competence, and acceptance. When kids don’t feel confident in their voice, they may consider themselves less capable than their peers.

Schedule a Children’s Dentistry Visit in Coffs Harbor

Starting your infant off with good oral care can help protect their teeth for the rest of their life. Dr. Arpit Pathak supports parents in taking care of their children’s teeth with checkups, cleanings, patient education, and preventative treatments. Schedule your child’s first dental exam with an experienced Coffs Harbor dentist by calling (02) 6652-3242 or messaging us online at your earliest convenience.

Jul 30
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PREPARING KIDS TO MEET YOUR LOCAL CHILDREN’S DENTIST

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Why are young kids so reluctant to meet their local children’s dentist? Dentophobia in young children may stem from fear of a new environment and not knowing what to expect. It could also be caused by the sound of dental equipment. 

Whatever the cause, parents and dentists have to work together to foster good oral health. When kids develop dental hygiene skills at a young age, they have fewer tooth problems as adults. 

So what’s the solution? How can parents help their kids get excited about going to the dentist? Here are some pro tips to help your little one overcome dental fear: 

THE FIRST MEETING

Ideally, children should have their first dental visit when they start teething or turn one year old, whichever comes first. Look for a dental practice that specializes in treating young children. They will work with parents to make the visit feel safe and exciting. 

Here are two tips for parents of young children: 

  1. Have kids meet their local children’s dentist before having a cleaning or exam. They can take a tour of the dentist’s office, meet their care team, and even sit in the chair. It’s a no-pressure way to introduce them to the dentist.
  2. Incorporate the idea of visiting the dentist into conversations at home. Try to find age-appropriate books that describe what it’s like to go to the dentist. Kids might want to give dental exams to their stuffed animals or learn more about healthy teeth.

Even with all of the above preparation, some kids will take a few visits to warm up to dental and other medical visits. This is absolutely normal and universal. 

DEVELOPING HEALTHY HABITS AT HOME

Once kids are comfortable with their local dentist, they can start getting cleanings and exams. Even though baby teeth fall out eventually, it’s still important to check them regularly for signs of decay.

To make sure kids pass their dental exams with flying colors, establish a tooth brushing routine at home. Flossing isn’t necessary until kids have two teeth that touch each other, usually around the age of two or three. Tooth brushing, on the other hand, is a perfect addition to the bedtime routine. 

If your child has been to the dentist several times and still shows reluctance or fear, have a chat with them at home. Being brave and overcoming fear is something we all have to do at times. Also, talk to your dentist. They may suggest that your child: 

  • Bring a stuffed animal or blanket to exams
  • Sit in your lap during teeth cleaning
  • Come in when there are fewer patients in the office
  • Visit again without having an exam

Compassionate dentistry is all about helping patients get the right care. If it takes a little longer to get our littlest patients excited about brushing, we don’t mind at all. 

CHILDREN’S DENTISTRY IN COFFS HARBOUR

We know that children can get a little nervous when it’s time to visit the dentist, which is why our friendly team at Magic Smiles is so patient and kind. Dental visits shouldn’t be stressful, so we do everything possible to put your child at ease. 

Children between the ages of two and 17 may be entitled to $1000 of free dental treatment through Medicare. To determine eligibility, call Medicare direct (132 150) to speak with a customer service representative. 

To get started with us, give us a call at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an initial consultation with our dental specialists. 

 

Apr 20
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happy little girl brushing teeth

Children’s Dentist: Oral Health Tips for Kids

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

While most parents expect their child to have a cavity or two, this doesn’t have to be the case. Cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems are almost always preventable. As dental professionals, we don’t take oral health lightly, and parents shouldn’t either! It’s more common to take overall health more seriously than oral health, but what if we told you that one affects the other? Oral health problems in children can lead to poor digestive health, nutrient deficiencies, and low self-esteem.

We know that you want the best for your little one. That includes helping her achieve optimal oral health so that the rest of her body doesn’t suffer the consequences. In this blog, our children’s dentist offers three tips to help your child gain and maintain a healthy smile.

1. Begin brushing and flossing as early as possible

Parents should clean their children’s mouths long before they develop their first tooth. Milk and other substances can damage a baby’s gum tissue and increase the risk of gum disease. To clean the gums, simply wet a soft cloth and wipe the front, back, and top of your baby’s gums.

When the first tooth develops, buy a finger brush or use a damp washcloth to remove any residue, plaque, and bacteria. Be very gentle and don’t use a toothpaste unless recommended by your children’s dentist. Once the second tooth develops, use floss to clean between the teeth.

As your child gets older (usually by age three), he or she will graduate to a regular, soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized dollop of fluoride toothpaste. Children typically need assistance with brushing and flossing until age six.

2. Offer healthy meals and snacks

One of the most important, and often most overlooked, aspects of oral health care is eating healthy foods. Children love snacks like crackers, dried fruit, gummies, and juice. Unfortunately, these usually contain loads of sugar and carbs that contribute to cavities and gum disease.

What our children eat is just as important for their oral health as it is for their overall health. To maintain a healthy microbiome, children should consume diets that contain these vitamins and minerals:

  • Calcium helps build strong bones which provide structural support to the teeth and gums. It also hardens dental enamel.
  • Potassium strengthens bone density and removes acidity from the blood which would otherwise inhibit calcium production.
  • Vitamin D assists the body in absorbing calcium.
  • Vitamin C protects against gum disease and prevents teeth from loosening.
  • Vitamin A prevents dry mouth and promotes healing.

Here are some of our favorite mouth- and kid-friendly snacks:

  • Greek yogurt
  • Milk
  • String cheese
  • Avocados
  • Fruit and veggie smoothie
  • Cantaloupe
  • Apples and peanut butter

Additionally, children should drink plenty of water throughout the day to clean the mouth of food particles and sugars and promote the production of saliva.

3. Find a kid-friendly children’s dentist near you

An experienced, compassionate, and friendly children’s dentist is a parent’s best resource for kids’ oral health. Children’s dentists help parents navigate the first years of oral health care, answer their questions, and give tips for teaching children how to care for their teeth and gums.

Finding the right kids’ dentist is essential to creating a healthy relationship between your child and his or her oral health. Choose a dentist with years of experience working with children, great patient reviews, and who is conveniently located.

Our Woolgoolga Children’s Dentist

At Magic Smiles, our dental team ensures every child that walks into our office feels comfortable and cared for. Our children’s dentist offers preventative treatments to ensure your little one achieves optimal oral health.

To schedule an initial consultation at our dental practice, call (02) 6654-0650 today.

Feb 28
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little boy brushing teeth

Children’s Dentist Explains Cavities and Cavity Prevention

By Children's Dentistry No Comments

Cavities don’t happen overnight. They are usually a result of months or years of dental neglect. Children who have cavities often don’t brush enough or properly, don’t floss, and eat a diet high in sugar. Genetics and some overall health conditions may also contribute to cavities.

The process of tooth decay looks something like this:

A child drinks apple juice right before bed, then goes to sleep without brushing his teeth. Overnight, the sugar from the apple juice sticks to the teeth, forming a film called plaque. In the morning, the child brushes his teeth but doesn’t clean his molars thoroughly. The plaque is slowly eating away at the enamel on those molars. The next time he brushes, he still doesn’t get the molars, then he eats a cookie right before bed. By the next night, the plaque has turned into tartar which creates a shield for the bacteria. Now the acidic bacteria are able to slowly infiltrate the inner part of the child’s tooth, creating holes (or cavities). The bacteria move to the dentin and pulp, causing sensitivity and pain.

Children’s dentists aim to help kids avoid cavities and decay at all costs. Thankfully, prevention is easy!

Here are our top three tips for preventing cavities at home:

1. Talk about oral hygiene

Children understand that things like sharing, taking baths or showers, and reading are important because parents talk to them about those things. Make sure to talk about oral hygiene often with your child.

Explain to him or her that healthy teeth are just as important as a healthy body because one affects the other. Plus, having smelly breath can be embarrassing.

Talk about the mouth in a fun way! For example, your child’s mouth could be a kingdom and bacteria, an army trying to attack. The toothbrush and floss can be the heroes of the story—saving the king and his kingdom from destruction.

2. Create a proper oral hygiene routine

As you probably know, routines are difficult to make, but so worth it once they become a habit. Create an oral hygiene routine with your little one that includes brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Make sure your child uses short, circular motions and isn’t brushing too hard! Next, use traditional floss or floss picks to clean between the teeth. Finally, rinse with a kid-friendly mouthwash!

3. Offer healthy meals and snacks

One of the best things a parent can do for their child’s oral and overall health is to provide healthy meals and snacks. A good balance of protein, dairy, fruits, and veggies is a great place to start! Our children’s dentist encourages parents to limit sugar and starches as much as possible as they are two of the biggest contributors to tooth decay.

Also, make sure that your little one is drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This helps clean the mouth after meals and snacks and increases saliva production.

Children’s Dentist Bonus Tip

Here’s one more tip for you: take your child to the dentist every six months. Dental exams and cleanings are an essential part of oral hygiene. These appointments ensure that every part of your child’s mouth is being thoroughly and properly cleaned and that his or her teeth are developing properly.

Looking for an experienced children’s dentist in Woolgoolga? Look no further! Our team at Magic Smiles is prepared to help your little one maintain a healthy smile for years to come. Call us today at (02) 6654-0650 to schedule an appointment.