Category: Dentist Tips

Common Factors Leading to Cavities in Kids

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry
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Every parent wants their child to have a bright, healthy smile. However, cavities can sneak up and cause problems if you don’t know what to look out for. Understanding the causes of cavities in children is crucial for maintaining good oral health. 

The Role of Sugar and Diet

Sugar is one of the primary causes of cavities in children. When children consume sugary foods and drinks, the bacteria in their mouths feed on the sugar and produce acids. These acids attack the tooth enamel, leading to decay over time.

Another dietary factor is the frequent consumption of acidic foods and beverages. Items such as citrus fruits, sodas, and sports drinks can erode tooth enamel, making it easier for cavities to form. While these foods can be part of a balanced diet, it’s important to consume them in moderation and ensure children brush their teeth afterward to neutralize the acids.

Poor Oral Hygiene Habits

Inadequate brushing and flossing are significant contributors to cavity formation. Effective oral hygiene involves brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. Unfortunately, many children are not diligent about these practices, either because they forget or because they lack the manual dexterity to brush and floss effectively.

Parents should oversee their children’s brushing routines, especially for younger children who may not clean their teeth thoroughly. Additionally, regular dental check-ups are essential for professional cleanings and early detection of potential issues.

Fluoride is another key component in preventing cavities. Most public water supplies contain fluoride, but parents should check if their local water is fluoridated. If not, they can consult with their pediatric dentist about fluoride supplements or treatments.

Conclusion

Understanding the causes of cavities in children is the first step toward prevention. Be mindful of their diet and oral hygiene routines. If cavities appear, search for your local dentist nearby and learn more about cavity fillings in Greenville, NC. Wilson Pediatric Dentistry is a great resource for cavity treatment and prevention. 

Maintaining a healthy smile requires ongoing attention and care, but the results are well worth the effort. Let’s keep our children’s smiles bright and cavity-free!

Why Pediatric Dentists Outshine Regular Dentists

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

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When it comes to your child’s dental care, you may wonder if it’s necessary to seek out a pediatric dentist instead of a regular dentist. Let’s explore the key differences that make a pediatric dentist in Greenville, NC, the ideal choice for your little one.

 

Pediatric Dentists: The Right Choice For Kids

 

Additional Training and Expertise

Pediatric dentists undergo rigorous training beyond dental school, focusing specifically on children’s unique dental needs. They acquire in-depth knowledge of child development, including oral growth and behavior management techniques. They are equipped to address the changing needs of young patients. 

 

Knowledge of Child Development

Dentists who study pediatrics understand that children’s dental needs evolve as they grow. They possess the expertise to anticipate and address these changes, ensuring that your child’s dental care is always tailored to their specific stage of development. By considering factors such as teething, thumb-sucking habits, and the eruptions of permanent teeth, they offer tailored solutions to support healthy dental development.

 

Child-Centered Approach

These professionals prioritize creating a friendly and welcoming environment that puts children at ease. They know how to communicate with young patients effectively, using easily understandable language and explanations. By fostering a positive and comfortable dental experience, they help children develop a lifelong appreciation for oral health.

 

Specialized Equipment

Dentists specializing in pediatrics have an arsenal of tools specifically designed for children’s dental care. From smaller instruments to gentle x-ray techniques, these professionals ensure that your child receives the most accurate diagnosis and the least discomfort during procedures.

 

Strong Communication Skills

Pediatric dentists excel in connecting with both children and parents, explaining procedures and addressing any concerns or questions. Their ability to build rapport and establish trust helps create a positive dental experience for the child and a sense of reassurance for parents.

 

Better Results

 

Early Detection

Pediatric dentists have a keen eye for detecting even the subtlest hints of dental problems. Their thorough examinations encompass a comprehensive evaluation of teeth, gums, and overall oral health.

 

Early Intervention

By detecting and addressing dental issues early on, dentists specializing in pediatrics can intervene promptly when necessary. They can address oral habits like thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, or pacifier use that can impact dental development. 

 

Early Prevention

Prevention is always better than cure, and these specialists focus on educating both children and parents about proper oral hygiene practices. They teach children to brush and floss effectively, instilling good habits from an early age. Additionally, they offer preventative treatments like dental sealants and fluoride applications to protect your child’s teeth from decay.

 

By choosing a dentist specializing in pediatrics, you’re giving your child the advantage of focused care, early detection, intervention, and prevention, in a positive environment.  Please make an appointment with Wilson Pediatric Dentistry today, and together, let’s ensure that your child’s smile shines brightly for years to come.

 

How Important Are Regular Teeth Cleanings?

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

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If you wonder whether regular dental cleanings are necessary for your child, the answer is yes! Professional teeth cleaning by a pediatric dentist in Greenville, NC, can promote oral health and hygiene. Let’s look at how essential regular teeth cleaning is for your little one.

Teeth cleaning involves removing plaque, tartar, and food debris from the teeth. A pediatric dentist uses special tools to clean the teeth, including areas that are hard to reach with a toothbrush. Here are the top reasons why teeth cleanings are crucial for your child.

Prevent Cavities

Every child who has teeth is at risk of tooth decay. However, the risk is higher in children who eat foods that cause cavities or have poor oral hygiene habits. Teeth cleaning eliminates plaque and tartar, the primary causes of cavities. It also gets rid of food particles stuck between the teeth, which discourages the buildup of harmful bacteria in the mouth.

Fight Gum Disease

Plaque buildup on the teeth can cause children to develop gum disease or gingivitis. Gum disease is prevalent among children who have poor oral hygiene. Luckily, regular dental cleanings can help prevent it. The procedure removes plaque from the teeth and eliminates bacteria that infect the gums. This helps keep the gums healthy and strong.

Prevent Premature Tooth Loss

Tooth decay can weaken your child’s enamel and increase the risk of premature loss of the milk teeth. Gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, which leaves the teeth with inadequate support. As a result, the milk teeth can loosen and fall out before their time.

Your child should get regular dental cleanings, even if they have milk teeth. Frequent cleanings curb tooth decay and strengthen the gum line, preventing premature loss of the milk teeth.

Brighten the Teeth

Although stained and discolored teeth are considered an adult problem, they are also an issue for kids. Plaque, oral medication, and highly pigmented foods can discolor your child’s teeth.

Dental cleanings brighten the teeth by removing the existing stains. They also prevent discoloration from oral supplements your child takes daily. The bright, beautiful smile that follows can boost your child’s confidence and self-esteem.

Get Rid of Bad Breath

Poor oral hygiene, tooth decay, and gum disease can cause bad breath, also known as halitosis. If your little one has bad breath, schedule a professional cleaning immediately. The cleaning procedure will eliminate the harmful oral bacteria responsible for halitosis. Your pediatric dentist will also treat tooth decay and other dental conditions that may be responsible for the problem.

How Often Should Your Child Get Their Teeth Cleaned?

There are no set rules on how often children should get their teeth cleaned. The frequency of dental cleanings varies depending on a child’s unique needs. For example, frequent cleanings and examinations may be required to maintain optimal health if a child is at risk of cavities or gum disease.

Schedule Your Child’s Teeth Cleaning in Greenville, NC

Protect your child’s oral health by scheduling frequent teeth cleanings. If you don’t have a pediatric dentist, we are accepting new patients at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry. Our friendly staff will make your child feel at ease throughout each procedure. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Treating Your Child’s Cavities

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

children dental image header

Maintaining your child’s dental health is essential to their overall well-being, and cavity prevention is a critical aspect of dental health. Need some help keeping your child’s teeth and gums healthy? Here are some tips from your pediatric dentist in Greenville on cavity prevention, as well as information on where you can go if you need a cavity filling for your child.

Encourage Brushing and Flossing

The first line of defense between your child and tooth decay is good habits with brushing and flossing. Ensure that you provide a good-quality toothbrush and a dentist-recommended toothpaste to provide the foundation your child needs for good dental health. Your pediatric dentist can help you find the right products. As your child ages, you might consider adding mouthwash to their routine.

Make sure your child is dedicating around two minutes to brushing twice a day, both in the morning and in the evening. You should also help them work on their brushing technique to ensure hard-to-reach areas, such as around the molars at the back of the mouth, are being cleaned.

Make Water the Drink of Choice

Sodas, energy drinks, juices, and other sugary drinks are one of the leading causes of tooth decay. This is especially true for children, who many of these products are marketed towards. Limiting your child’s consumption of sugary drinks such as these is one of the best steps you can take toward preventing cavities.

Encourage your child to drink water on a regular basis as a way to promote good dental health. Soda and other sweet drinks might be alright for an occasional treat, but it’s important to limit the amount your child consumes by making sure it isn’t their usual go-to drink.

Eliminate Sugary and Processed Foods

Your child’s diet has a major impact on their dental health. More and more, our supermarkets are dominated by processed foods that are high in sugar and other harmful ingredients. While the convenience and ease foods like these offer make them easy to choose to save time and effort in our busy lives, it’s important that you don’t let these foods become the primary staple of your child’s diet.

Shop for fresh produce and other wholesome ingredients for your meals. Home-cooked meals don’t have a high sugar content and other factors that will negatively impact your child’s dental health. As an added bonus, sitting together for tasty home-cooked meals will also give you time to enjoy some quality moments together, sharing memorable meals.

Get Cavity Filling from Your Pediatric Dentist in Greenville

Need more information on pediatric dental health or any treatment for your child? Our experts are standing by to provide everyday treatments, fillings for cavities, and all your pediatric dental health needs. Schedule an appointment with our caring staff to keep your child’s smile as bright as their future.

Learning About Pediatric Dentist Emergency Care with Wilson Pediatrics

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

You want to do everything you can to protect your child, and that includes being able to help them in an emergency situation. When your child needs emergency dental care, you must know how to respond. Read on for some tips from a pediatric dentist about how to handle your child’s dental emergency.

What Is a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any dental situation that requires immediate attention. Pediatric dental emergencies come in many different forms. For instance, tooth decay that is left untreated could grow severe enough to become an emergency. A cut on the lips or gums that becomes infected could also constitute a dental emergency.

Other dental emergencies are caused by sudden trauma. These include broken or fractured teeth, teeth that have been knocked out, or a broken jaw. All of these events cause acute pain and need to be treated by a dental professional as soon as possible.

What to Do In a Dental Emergency

Stay Calm and Act Fast

Although your child experiencing a dental emergency is frightening, it’s important that you keep a cool head so that you can handle the situation properly. Panicking will only make the experience more traumatic for your child, so maintain your composure to help ease their stress.

One of the best ways you can keep your child calm in this distressing event is knowing what to do when responding to the situation. Keep contact information on hand for pediatric emergency dental care. This will allow you to respond promptly, reassuring your child that you know what to do to help them.

Call for Emergency Dental Care Immediately

Acting fast is vital in a dental emergency. The sooner you get the emergency treated, the better the results will be for your child. Acting fast may enable dental professionals to save any teeth that were damaged in the emergency.

Contact Wilson Pediatric Dentistry for help in a dental emergency and all your other pediatric needs. We’re standing by to provide the high-quality care that your child deserves. 

Will Cavity Treatment Prevent a Root Canal?

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Children’s teeth are constantly bombarded by harmful substances that wear down tooth enamel and cause damage. Children tend to develop cavities, especially around the holidays. Without cavity treatment, these small recesses could lead to bigger issues. In the most serious cases, pediatric root canal treatment might be necessary. While the best course of action is to prevent cavities altogether, a cavity filling can prevent further damage to your child’s teeth.

 

Can Cavity Fillings Prevent Root Canal Issues?

Cavities Can Lead to Pediatric Root Canal Treatment

Cavities are a form of permanent tooth damage. Simple cavities break through the outer layer, the enamel. These cavities may not demonstrate any symptoms until they penetrate down to the dentin, the inner layer. However, cavities trap food and bacteria inside, which can lead to an infection deeper in the tooth. When this happens, a root canal may be necessary. A cavity filling is recommended to stop damage from spreading to this point.

 

Root canals are required when an infection develops in the pulp of the tooth. These infections cannot be treated with antibiotics as they’re too deep for medications to penetrate. Fortunately, root canals today are easy to perform and won’t cause significant pain, but we would prefer to avoid more serious treatments entirely by treating cavities as soon as they’re spotted.

 

Effective Cavity Treatments

When it comes to treating cavities, the best approach is a filling. Depending on the location of the cavity, your dentist might recommend different types of filling. The most expensive options are gold and porcelain, which are generally only recommended for adult teeth.

 

For baby teeth, amalgam fillings are preferred since they are more affordable. Another option are composite resin fillings. These appear more natural, but don’t last as long as they can also be stained like regular teeth. For baby teeth that won’t be there much longer, they’re a good option to consider. Your pediatric dentist will recommend the best type of filling given the situation.

 

Preventing Cavities Prevents Root Canals

The best approach is to be proactive and prevent cavities from forming in the first place. With no cavities, there won’t be any need to worry about treating them or potentially needing a root canal. Even if your child is a diligent tooth brusher, it’s important to come in for regular teeth cleaning. Not only does this reduce the chances of developing a cavity in the first place, but it also helps spot minor cavities before they become bigger problems.

 

If your child has been complaining about a tooth or hasn’t had a cleaning in some time, schedule an appointment with Wilson Pediatric Dentistry in Greenville, NC today.

Learn Healthy Dental Hygiene From a Pediatric Dentist

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Dental hygiene is important for overall health, especially for children. If your kids start with a good foundation for oral health, they will carry these lessons into adulthood. Healthy dental hygiene will reduce or prevent many future oral problems including ulcers, gingivitis, or even root canals. Here are some tips on how to help your kids learn good teeth cleaning in Greenville, NC.

Learn Healthy Dental Hygiene From a Pediatric Dentist

Start at an Early Age

Kids learn very quickly as they grow, and visiting a dentist at an early age helps them to understand the importance of their teeth. It is advisable to visit a pediatric dentist and book regular visits with a kids dentist as soon as your child’s first tooth appears. 

 

If you have more than one child, it’s a great idea to take your kids for a teeth cleaning service at the same time. Try combining the visit with a fun family activity on the same day to positively reinforce the dental visit.

Regular Dental Visits

Most problems with children’s teeth can be prevented by regular dental visits. This allows your dentist to maintain your child’s baby teeth. On average, a child should visit the dentist at least ten times before starting kindergarten. If your child’s baby teeth are healthy from regular checkups, their adult teeth should develop without any problems.

Lead by Example

As a parent, you are the most important role model for your kids. They look up to you for guidance, and this extends to dental care. If you demonstrate to your child the right way to brush their teeth, they will copy you. Children need to build a routine as they grow and brushing your teeth with your children together is a fun and important way to teach them great dental habits.

Provide Healthy Substitutes

Everyone loves sugar. The problem is too much sugar can cause serious damage to teeth, especially in children. As a substitute, try using little bags of healthier fruit or raw vegetables for your kids. Fruits and vegetables will provide essential vitamins and minerals, which further improve their dental health.

 

Talk With Your Dentist

Your child’s dental health is as important as their physical health. Your friendly pediatric dentist is here to help your child build a firm foundation for a lifetime of bright smiles and good dental hygiene. We also provide extra tips and advice at Serving Greenville.

 

Contact us at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry to introduce your child to a lifetime of good dental hygiene and book a teeth cleaning service today.

Teeth-Healthy Snacks Your Kids Will Love (Great for Teeth Cleaning & Health!)

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

You already know that calcium is great for strong teeth and bones…but how can you effectively get that into your kid’s diet and teeth-cleaning routine? If you’ve been looking for new ways to enhance your child’s diet and get some extra teeth-friendly benefits, we’ve got you covered. The snack ideas in this list not only save you a few extra trips to the pediatric dentist, but they’ll also get some extra midday teeth cleaning done – leaving your child with a fresh and healthy smile. 

 

Read on for our full list of snacks to protect your child’s oral health.

 

Best Teeth-Friendly Snacks for Oral Health According to a Pediatric Dentist

Looking for snack inspiration? You’re in the right place! Read on for our full list of smile-friendly snacks. 

 

1. Crispy & Crunchy Fruit or Vegetable Sticks 

They can be sweet, they can be savory, and they’re all around delicious. These healthy snack options are inexpensive, rich in nutrition, and are fantastic when paired with your child’s favorite dip or spread. Crunchy veggies and fruits offer additional teeth-specific benefits, too, giving your child’s teeth a quick brush effect. They’re also usually rich in Vitamin A & keratin for healthier enamel and less overall plaque. 

 

2. Dairy-Based Snacks 

This entry on the list likely isn’t a surprise! Cottage cheese, string cheese, plain milk, and other dairy items are great for your teeth. They are rich in both Vitamin D and calcium, which strengthens bone health. Just be sure to brush after, though, as they can also have sugars that sit on the surface of your tooth’s delicate enamel. 

 

3. Watermelon 

Watermelon is an overlooked snack suggestion for oral health, but it shouldn’t be! It’s incredibly high in antioxidants that can fight free radical damage and bacterial overgrowth in your mouth. If eaten in a high enough quantity, it can also support your body’s hydration – promoting healthy levels of bacteria-fighting saliva. 

 

4. Chicken, Eggs, and Beef 

Whether your child enjoys hamburgers, chicken nuggets, or huevos rancheros, all of these protein-heavy ingredients are great for supporting healthy enamel and bone density. Looking to go the extra mile & make your meal even healthier? Pair these once-in-awhile favorites with your child’s favorite veggie- or fruit-based side dish. 

 

Top Rated Teeth Cleaning & Pediatric Dentist in Greenville, NC 

Curious about your child’s oral health? Book a teeth cleaning today at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry! Our team of dental experts have been working exclusively with pediatric patients, offering them the emotional support and strategies they need for effective teeth cleaning &  lifelong healthy smile habits. For more information and to book your appointment today, please give us a call at (252) 291-4300. 

What All Parents Should Know About Baby Teeth and Pediatric Dentistry in Knightdale

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Watching your child develop is a wonderfully exciting time, and we all want to give our kids a great start in life. It’s both encouraging and sobering to know that your choices now can affect your child’s health for life, which is why it’s important to know what to expect with baby teeth. Finding quality pediatric dentistry in Knightdale for your child is crucial for your child’s future dental health. 

Good Health Begins With Teeth

Our oral health is like a gateway into our overall health, which is true for kids and adults. The human mouth contains bacteria that can get into the digestive and respiratory tract, causing disease. 

Good brushing and flossing protect your child from gum disease and tooth decay: but these habits also safeguard their overall health. 

Even Baby Teeth Need Dental Care

Some people mistakenly believe that kids don’t need dental care until their permanent teeth erupt. Yes, they will eventually replace your child’s baby teeth, but they are critical to your child’s health and welfare. 

Baby teeth enable your child to smile, speak correctly, and chew their food. And the space made by baby teeth helps the mouth form properly to allow adult teeth to come in properly.  

Pediatric Dentistry

It’s crucial that your child visits the dentist early in life, and the best time is after you see the first tooth erupt. Regular dental visits will teach you and your child how to care for teeth, help prevent cavities, and alert you to any dietary problems that are causing dental issues. They may even help you avoid expensive dental work down the line by addressing issues while they are still small. 

At-Home Care

Any tooth can decay, and baby teeth have less enamel and are therefore more at risk of decay than adult teeth. Brushing should begin as soon as the teeth erupt. Brush and floss your child’s teeth twice a day. 

Let them help and teach them how to do it as they get older. If they learn to floss while they have only a few, more widely-spaced teeth, they’ll have fewer issues flossing their permanent teeth once those come in. 

A Good Diet Is Crucial

Sugar is the worst thing for teeth, yet nearly all foods have sugar: even fruits, vegetables, and milk. That said, some foods and drinks are harder on the teeth than others. 

Children should rarely eat sticky fruit snacks and candies, sugary sodas and juices, or sour candies with ascorbic acid. Always choose foods low in sugar, encourage your children to drink water, and choose something other than sweets for snacks and meals. 

Find a Partner in Pediatric Dentistry in Knightdale

You don’t have to care for your child’s teeth alone. At Wilson Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Jasmine Elmore has dedicated her career to helping children achieve excellent dental health so they can thrive for a lifetime. Visit us at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry today to schedule an appointment and get your child on the road toward good health. 

When Should Your Child Start Brushing Their Own Teeth?

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

How early should you be helping your child to brush their teeth? Afterwards, when and how should kids start brushing their own teeth? With so much information available online, it can be difficult to get the clear answer you’re looking for as a parent.

 

Read on to learn more about tips that you can use today to start good brushing habits with your kids, and to answer the question of when your children should begin brushing their own teeth. 

 

When should you begin brushing your child’s teeth? 

You can begin brushing your child’s teeth from as early as four months old, well before they even have teeth.

 

Starting early can help to stimulate blood flow in the gums, and can encourage great oral health from an early age. Simply use a wet, soft towel or even your finger. You won’t have to worry about using toothpaste until their first tooth appears. Be sure to use a very small amount on a soft-bristled brush when you brush your child’s teeth for the first time. 

 

How can I help my child have good brushing habits? 

Brushing their teeth on their own is a habit that you’ll have to support your child in learning. Your child can start learning how to brush their own teeth at age 3, while they should be brushing their own teeth morning and night by age 4. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you to stay on the right track with your child’s personal oral hygiene habits from a young age. 

 

  1. Mirror & copy 

Have your child take part in your own oral care routine. Focusing on having them mirror you can help you to instill good brushing habits, and allows you to regularly monitor their oral health. It also shows them how high of a priority oral care is when it comes to one’s overall well-being.

 

  1. Encourage & incentivize 

As your child develops, you can begin using habit trackers and other incentives to keep them on the right track. Rewards work well to solidify these habits at every stage of development.

 

  1. Visit your pediatric dentist 

Making your dentist trips a priority is key for pediatric oral health. Looking for a pediatric dentist in Greenville, NC? The team at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry is here to help. With years of success and hundreds of happy patients, we’re confident that we can help you get the care you need for excellent oral health. Keep browsing our website to learn more, and feel welcome to schedule your appointment today.

Protect Your Kid’s Teeth During Summer Play

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Protect Your Kid’s Teeth During Summer Play

Now that your kids are off of school for the summer, they’ll want to get out and enjoy themselves. Summertime is a great opportunity to have fun and make memories for children, but it can also be quite hazardous if they are not careful. An accident can happen in an instant, and without proper care, could result in serious damage to your child’s teeth. Follow these tips to help protect your kid’s teeth this summer so they can return to school with a happy and healthy smile.

Buy a Custom Mouth Guard

A mouth guard that can be molded to fit your child’s teeth perfectly will provide a lot of protection throughout most types of play. Make sure they are wearing the mouth guard when roughhousing, riding bikes, using skateboards, and enjoying other activities where they might bump their mouth.

Keep Healthy Snacks Available

Summertime often means frequent snacks to keep up their energy. Rather than eating candy and drinking sugary drinks, make sure they have vegetables and other options that taste great and won’t cause problems with their teeth.

Provide Proper Protective Equipment

If your children will be playing any sports, make sure they have the right equipment to do it safely. For potentially dangerous sports like football, baseball, and hockey, make sure their helmet has a full face guard to protect their teeth.

Follow a Daily Brushing and Flossing Routine

Once school ends, the normal routine can go right out the window. If you aren’t careful, this can mean that your kids skip brushing and flossing from time to time, which can leave their teeth vulnerable to cavities. While the summer routine may be different than the normal school year one, it definitely needs to include proper oral care.

Schedule a Dentist Appointment

The summer is the perfect time of year to schedule a dentist appointment for your kids since they won’t have to miss any school. Get a summer cleaning and checkup at the best pediatric dentist in Greenville. Wilson Pediatric Dentistry serves children throughout Greenville, Rocky Mount, NC, Knightdale, NC and the surrounding area. Give us a call at (252) 291-4300 to schedule an appointment today.

Thumb Sucking and Your Child’s Teeth

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Thumb Sucking and Your Child’s Teeth

During infancy, children may turn to a variety of “sucking” behaviors in order to self-soothe. The most common of these is thumb sucking, though pacifier use is also quite common. These forms of self-soothing are usually harmless in infancy, but when they extend into early childhood, they lead to the development of dental issues.

How Sucking Thumbs or Fingers Can impact Your Child’s Teeth

In fact, there are a number of ways in which sucking behaviors can adversely impact your child’s teeth or their overall health. Some examples include:

  • The most serious effect is malocclusion, also known as an open bite. This describes a type of dental misalignment that is notable even when the mouth is closed.
  • Long-term thumb sucking may also result in an overbite, a type of malocclusion in which the top teeth cover the bottom teeth any time the mouth is closed.
  • Thumb sucking can contribute to speech impediments. Because thumb and finger sucking results in shifting to the teeth, jaw, or palette, it can affect your child’s ability to form certain sounds.

How to Stop Harmful Behaviors

There are a few tips and strategies we recommend for parents who wish to put an end to their child’s thumb sucking behaviors.

  • Reinforce positive behaviors. Sticker/reward charts can work really well for most kids.
  • Start by eliminating thumb sucking during daytime, then naps, and finally nighttime.
  • Consider the use of Mavala thumb polish and/or fabric gloves.
  • Consider painting a face on the thumb with a non-toxic marker, a gentle reminder to your child.

Talk with a Pediatric Dentist

For additional insights, or a consultation regarding early-stage dental concerns, we recommend scheduling a consultation with a pediatric dentist.

As you search for a pediatric dentist near you, keep Wilson Pediatric Dentistry in mind. We are happy to serve kids and parents throughout the Wilson, NC community. Schedule a consultation appointment with us at any time.