Treehouse Pediatric Dentistry Blog

Not all children get excited about the idea of losing their teeth. While it is a normal occurrence that happens to everyone, trying to tell a young child that there’s nothing to be afraid of isn’t always easy. If your little one struggles with the idea of losing their baby teeth, here are 3 ways to remove their fears and help them better understand this necessary process.

Pediatric dentists do not want to perform tooth extractions, no matter the patient’s age. It is their goal to keep all natural pearly whites in place until they fall out on their own. Unfortunately, baby teeth can require early removal for several reasons, causing young patients to become uncertain about what to expect. Learn why tooth extraction is recommended for your child and what you can do to prepare them before, during, and after the procedure.

It’s natural for a child to be unsure whether dental work will cause any kind of pain. When learning they need a dental crown to protect a vulnerable tooth, you, too, may wonder about the process. Fortunately, you and your child do not need to worry much when it comes to receiving a dental crown. Keep reading to learn what steps are necessary to put a dental crown in place and why it’s best not to wait.

Spotting a cavity isn’t always easy, especially if one forms between your child’s teeth. Dentists rely on advanced digital imaging and a keen eye while performing visual examinations to detect early signs of dental decay and caries. But is there any way to tell if your child has a cavity that needs repair? Are there things you can do at home to help prevent this kind of problem? Read on to discover what tips and techniques you can use to better protect your child’s smile.

Every child needs high-quality oral healthcare to ensure their smile develops correctly. While cavities may be the primary problem most dentists look for in young patients, those with Down Syndrome can face even greater dental challenges. Keep reading to find out what kinds of problems are most commonly associated with this genetic disorder and how you can help your child achieve and maintain optimal oral health.  

It’s natural for parents to have questions about sedation dentistry. When recommended by your child’s pediatric dentist, you may wonder about its safety, effectiveness, and possible risks. Your responsibility is to keep your child protected as best as possible, so before signing off on any kind of dental sedation, here are the answers to 3 of the most common (and burning) questions asked by parents like you.

There is much debate among dentists about the use of fluoride on young, developing teeth. While some believe it can be harmful, resulting in fluorosis, others find that safe amounts can better protect vulnerable smiles from cavities. Recently, researchers found that exposure to fluoridated water does not negatively affect children’s behavioral or developmental function. But is this natural mineral actually safe? Keep reading to find out.

Children love to play, and sometimes, that play can get a little rough! Your child might have an accident that results in a dental injury; they might even knock out a tooth! If that ever happens to your little one, what should you do? Do not panic! Instead, use the advice in this article to protect your child’s smile from additional harm.

Dental sedation is a great option to ensure a child receives the care they need while keeping them comfortable. Although you want them to achieve their best smile, it’s normal to have concerns about the safety of dental sedation for children. There’s no reason to worry. There are strict guidelines for pediatric dental sedation to ensure your little one’s safety. Here’s what you need to know to make the best decision for your child’s dental health.

(more…)

Nothing is more precious than your little one’s smile. With their oral health and overall wellness connected, you do what you can to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Besides regular dental care and good oral hygiene at home, a healthy smile also relies on plenty of sunshine. According to recent studies, at least 15% of children are vitamin D deficient. Not only can low vitamin D affect their physical and psychological health negatively, but it can also put them at risk of preventable dental problems. Here’s how spending more time outside this summer can improve your child’s dental health.

(more…)