Category: Pediatric Dentist

Understanding the Process of Getting Braces: What Kids and Parents Should Know

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric Braces 

Today, there are various types of braces available, including traditional metal and clear aligners. Each option has its pros and cons, which your dentist will discuss with you. Metal braces tend to be more affordable and highly effective for complex teeth corrections. Clear aligners, while discreet, may not be suitable for all cases.

What to Expect During the Treatment Period

Once the braces are on, regular adjustments will be necessary. These appointments allow the orthodontist to tighten the wires, gradually moving the teeth into their correct positions. It’s crucial to maintain these visits to ensure the braces work effectively. Your child may experience some discomfort after adjustments, but this usually subsides within a few days.

Caring for Braces Daily

Proper care is essential to maximize the benefits of braces. Encourage your child to brush and floss diligently while avoiding foods that could damage their braces. Your dentist will provide specific guidance on oral hygiene and dietary restrictions to follow throughout the treatment.

Addressing Common Concerns and Emergencies

It’s not uncommon for wires to poke or brackets to break, which may require a quick fix from an emergency dentist in Greenville. Keep orthodontic wax handy to alleviate discomfort until professional help can be obtained. Maintaining open communication with your dental team will ensure that any issues are addressed promptly.

The Rewarding Outcome of Braces

After the treatment period, the braces will come off, revealing a new, confident smile. Retainers may be necessary to maintain the correction, ensuring lasting results. The transformation in your child’s smile and self-esteem will make all the effort worthwhile.

Choosing the right pediatric dentist is crucial for a successful braces experience. After searching for a “dentist near me,” you’ll find Wilson Pediatric Dentistry specializes in comprehensive orthodontic care tailored to each child’s unique needs. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and embark on your child’s journey to a healthier smile.

Discover Effective Solutions for Pediatric Teeth Alignment Issues

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric Teeth  

Every parent wants their child to have a healthy, confident smile. But achieving that perfect alignment can sometimes be a challenge. Pediatric teeth alignment issues are common, and understanding how to address them is crucial for your child’s oral health. At Wilson Dental, your pediatric dentist in Greenville, NC, we are here to educate and treat teeth health.

Understanding Malocclusion

Malocclusion is a common misalignment issue where the teeth or jaw do not fit together properly. It can lead to difficulties in chewing, speech problems, and even self-esteem issues for children.

Identifying malocclusion early is essential. Regular dental check-ups can help catch this issue before it worsens. Treatment options include braces, retainers, and sometimes surgery, depending on the severity.

Overcrowded Teeth

Overcrowded teeth occur when there isn’t enough space in the mouth for all the teeth to fit normally. This can lead to overlapping teeth and difficulties in maintaining oral hygiene.

Early intervention is key. Pediatric dentists may recommend space maintainers or braces to correct overcrowding. Ensuring that your child maintains good oral hygiene habits can also help manage this issue.

Underbites and Overbites

An underbite is when the lower teeth extend past the upper teeth, while an overbite is when the upper teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth. Both conditions can cause discomfort and functional issues.

Treatment often involves braces or clear aligners. In severe cases, oral surgery might be necessary. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a significant difference in correcting these issues.

Crossbites

A crossbite occurs when one or more of the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth. This misalignment can cause tooth wear, gum disease, and jaw problems.

Correcting a crossbite typically involves braces or expanders. Pediatric dentists may also recommend specific exercises to help align the jaw properly.

Open Bites

An open bite is when the upper and lower teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed, often caused by thumb sucking or tongue thrusting. This can affect speech and chewing.

Behavioral therapy to stop thumb sucking, combined with orthodontic treatments like braces, can help correct an open bite. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening.

The Role of Genetics

Genetics play a significant role in teeth alignment issues. If you or your partner had orthodontic problems, there’s a higher chance your child might too.

While you can’t change genetics, being aware allows for early monitoring and intervention. Regular dental visits can help keep an eye on potential issues.

Importance of Early Orthodontic Assessment

Early orthodontic assessments can identify potential alignment issues before they become problematic. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven.

Early assessments can lead to less invasive treatments and better outcomes. It’s a proactive step in ensuring your child’s oral health.

Conclusion

Pediatric teeth alignment issues are common, but with the right knowledge and timely intervention, they can be effectively managed. Whether it’s overcrowded teeth, underbites, or crossbites, understanding these issues and their treatments can help your child achieve a healthy, confident smile.

For tailored advice and treatment options, for teeth correction, consider consulting with Wilson pediatric dentistry. Contact us with any questions or to schedule an appointment today.

How to Prevent Cavities in Children: A Guide for Parents

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry
Cavity Prevention 

Cavities are a common dental issue that can affect children of all ages. However, with the right knowledge and preventive measures, you can help your child maintain a healthy, cavity-free smile. Wilson Dental will help you identify early signs of cavities and provide actionable cavity treatment information to protect your child’s oral health.

Signs of Early Cavities in Children

1. White Spots on Teeth

Chalky, white spots on the surface of teeth, especially near the gum line, indicate demineralization, the first stage of cavity formation. Additionally, complaints of discomfort or pain when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods suggest tooth sensitivity, which can signal that the enamel is wearing away and leaving the dentin exposed.

2. Visible Pits or Holes and Dark Spots or Stains

When checking your teeth, look for small pits or holes on the surface, as these are clear indicators that a cavity has formed and needs professional attention. Additionally, keep an eye out for dark spots or stains, which can be brown, black, or gray; these stains may indicate decay and should be examined by a dentist.

Preventive Measures to Protect Your Child’s Teeth

Preventing cavities involves a combination of good oral hygiene practices and regular dental care. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Establish a Routine and Monitor Diet

Ensure your child brushes their teeth twice a day and flosses daily using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush suitable for their age. Limit sugary snacks and drinks by encouraging healthy alternatives such as fruits, vegetables, and water.

2. Regular Dental Check-Ups and Education

Schedule check-ups with a pediatric dentist every six months, as early visits can help detect issues before they become severe. Teach your child the importance of oral hygiene by making brushing fun with songs, timers, or reward charts.

What If You Find Cavities?

If you discover that your child has developed cavities, it’s crucial to take immediate action to prevent further decay and ensure proper treatment. Schedule an appointment with your kid’s dentist in Greenville, NC as soon as you suspect cavities; they can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend appropriate treatment options based on the severity of the cavities.

Finding an Emergency Pediatric Dentist: What Parents Should Know About Dental Emergencies

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry
Teeth Correction Options for a Beautiful Smile 

Accidents happen, but as a parent, you know accidents are far more common when you have children. Falls, sports injuries, and facial trauma often require an extensive search for a pediatric dentist near you to handle the situation as soon as possible. The right emergency dentist in Greenville will be available when you need them, know how to handle the emergency and your child, and provide dental care you feel confident about. 

Dental emergencies are very common among children of all ages, so it’s understandable when your child’s pain, emotional response, and trauma affect your ability to react. These emergencies are frightening, but when you know who to call and where to go, you can resolve the issue quickly to mitigate the situation.

It’s always helpful to find a pediatric dentist who also offers emergency care so you won’t have to waste time texting friends for recommendations or searching online to find someone who can help. Instead, you can proceed without any added stress or time wasted trying to find the best dental care for your child.

The Benefits of Making Your Pediatric Dentist Your Emergency Pediatric Dentist

When your primary pediatric dentist is also your emergency pediatric dentist, dental care will feel seamless. When an accident happens, you can go to the office you’re already familiar with and be treated by a dentist and staff who already know you and your child. 

A Quick Treatment Process

When your child’s primary pediatric dentist is also your emergency dentist, you won’t have to worry about extra services or filling out new paperwork because they will already have X-rays and medical information on file. This allows you to proceed with the necessary treatment as soon as possible and feel confident the situation has been effectively handled by a dentist you know and trust. 

At Wilson Pediatrics, we develop relationships with each of our patients so they know exactly how to proceed when an emergency happens. When you need emergency care, your child can at least have the comfort of being treated by our team instead of a group of strangers they have never met before.

If you’re looking for a pediatric dentist in Greenville, you can end your search with us. We offer a variety of pediatric dentistry treatments and services to help your child experience optimal dental health. Contact Wilson Pediatric Dentistry in Wilson, NC today to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment.

Teeth Correction Options for the Most Beautiful Smile

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry
Teeth Correction Options for a Beautiful Smile 

Parents want their children to have beautiful teeth, and while braces are a common solution for teeth correction, they’re not the only solution. When you visit a pediatric dentist in Greenville who will provide multiple solutions to promote aligned teeth and ensure optimal oral health, it will be easier to choose the best next steps for your child, whether that’s a cavity treatment with a cavity filling in Greenville or other solutions to ensure straight, aligned, and healthy teeth.

Exploring the Options

Disking

Disking is a solution for children who lack the necessary space for incoming permanent teeth. Without enough space, there’s an increased risk of future misalignment or cavities. During the disking process, the pediatric dentist gently shaves off thin layers of the surrounding teeth to make room for incoming teeth, promoting straight teeth and a beautiful smile.

Space Maintainers

Space maintainers are a solution for children who lose their baby teeth earlier than usual, causing the surrounding teeth to shift, which results in the misalignment of the new permanent incoming teeth. Space maintainers hold the space and create ample room for the new permanent tooth to come exactly where it needs to be.

Early Orthodontic Treatment

If you’ve been to a pediatric dentist who has recommended that your child wait until they’ve lost all their baby teeth to begin orthodontic treatment, there is another option. Braces aren’t just for teenagers; children as young as six years old make candidates for early orthodontic care to ensure proper alignment and permanent tooth development.

Cavity Treatment

Cavities affect 42% of children between ages two and 11 and often form even after the best oral hygiene. If your child has a cavity, it’s important that you have a dentist who can identify it and stop the decaying process early with a cavity filling in Greenville to ensure optimal oral health and maintain the aesthetics of the tooth.

Routine Dental Care

Routine teeth cleaning and regular examinations are critical to promoting and maintaining a child’s oral health. At a routine appointment, a pediatric dentist in Greenville will evaluate your child’s teeth, identify cavities to treat them early, take steps to reduce the risk of future cavities, and provide a customized treatment protocol to address any concerns so your child develops and maintains a beautiful smile and optimal oral health and hygiene.

Investing in your child’s teeth early on will yield long-term rewards. If you’re looking for a dentist who specializes in pediatric care, we can help. Contact us today at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry to learn more about our services and schedule your child’s first appointment.

Do Routine Teeth Cleans Matter? Yes — Here’s Why

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric Dentistry 

Teeth brushing time: Every parent’s worst nightmare or part of the nightly routine. The problem? No parent ever knows what side that flipped coin will land on in a given night. Spice that up with the stress of an upcoming dentist visit in their minds, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for trouble in most pediatric cases.

Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be that way. Our expert pediatric dentists Greenville, NC recommend early and continuous education around the importance of routine teeth cleaning and brushing, eliminating the anxiety that can be associated with either part of your regular practice. 

Read on to learn about the best benefits your child can gain from a routine clean. Then, use them to alleviate any pre-dentist fears as they arise. We’re rooting for you! 

Disease Avoidance In The Future 

Oral health conditions, like gingivitis and cavities, can lead to extreme pain, bleeding, swelling and other unpleasant symptoms. Your children can avoid these illnesses with routine deep-cleaning, giving your dentist a bird’s eye view into any oral issues before they take root. 

Fresh Breath 

No one likes having bad breath. After seeing the dentist in Greenville, NC., your children will have the confidence that comes from a great-looking, clean smile and fresh breath. All of the halitosis-causing plaque and germ buildup will be washed away from hard-to-reach places during the deep clean, thanks to the specialty, higher-pressure tools that your pediatric dentist Greenville, NC has access to. 

Long-Term Health Benefits 

Did you know? Many experts have found that routine cleanings can lower one’s risk of dementia, stroke, and heart disease. While your children may be too young to realize this benefit, you can rest assured knowing that you elevate their overall level of health with each visit. You can also encourage them with the thought that it’s not just their mouth they’re affecting when they go in for a clean. It’s every system of their body. 

Ready To Book Your Appointment? 

On the hunt for a pediatric dentist near me? The experts at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry are here to help. Our specialists help thousands of kids per year keep their teeth clean, healthy, and absolutely gleaming—giving them deep cleanings and the care they deserve in a convenient, accessible, and pain-free way. 

Connect with us today for more information. We look forward to serving you. 

The ABCs of Dental Fillings: Understanding the Process

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry
Dental Fillings  

Tiny teeth deserve big smiles, and dental fillings can play a crucial role in keeping those smiles healthy and bright. Whether you’re a seasoned parent or new to the game, understanding the process of getting dental fillings in Greenville can help you as you make informed decisions for your child’s well-being. 

Cavities and Getting a Cavity Filling in Greenville, NC

Early Cavity Detection

The process begins with finding a good dentist in Greenville, NC: someone who specializes in helping children feel comfortable and cared for and who can do a thorough dental checkup. 

At Wilson Pediatric Dentistry, your trusted pediatric dentist in Greenville, NC, we use advanced technology like digital X-rays to uncover cavities even in their earliest stages. Early detection minimizes tooth damage and ensures smoother, less invasive filling procedures.

Clearing the Way

If a cavity is identified, Dr. Elmore will gently remove the decayed tooth material using special instruments. Anesthesia is available to ensure your child’s comfort throughout the process.

Dental Fillings

At Wilson Pediatric Dentistry, we offer a variety of dental fillings in Greenville, NC, tailored to your child’s needs and preferences. The most common filling we use is tooth-colored composite fillings, which blend seamlessly with natural teeth, making them ideal for front teeth especially. 

There are other materials available, and in rare cases, we might put in a dental crown. Each material has its unique advantages, and our experienced pediatric dentist will guide you toward the best choice for your child’s specific situation.

Cavity Prevention

While fillings effectively restore teeth, prevention is always the gold standard. Regular dental cleanings and fluoride treatments at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry can significantly reduce the risk of cavities in the first place. We also provide age-appropriate oral hygiene education, empowering your child to take charge of their smile.

Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

At Wilson Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that a visit to the dentist can be nerve-wracking for both parents and children. That’s why we create a warm, welcoming environment where every child feels comfortable and cared for.

Kid-Friendly Atmosphere

Bright colors, playful decorations, and a touch of magic transform dental appointments into fun adventures.

Gentle, Experienced Dentist

Dr. Elmore is specially trained to work with children, ensuring a calm and stress-free experience for your child. The goal is that they never have an unpleasant experience and thus never learn to “fear” a dental visit.

Advanced Technology

Digital X-rays, comfortable equipment, and the latest in modern techniques minimize discomfort and maximize efficiency.

Schedule your child’s next dental checkup today and let Wilson Pediatric Dentistry be your partner in creating a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Handling Dental Emergencies: A Guide For Parents

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatric Dentistry  

Dental emergencies can be a source of anxiety for children and parents alike, so knowing how to handle these situations will not only give you confidence but also convey confidence to your distressed child. The expertise of a pediatric dentist in Greenville is crucial during these times, and Wilson Dental is there to support you and provide comprehensive care for your little ones.

Recognizing the Signs of a Dental Emergency

Toothaches

Toothaches can range from mild discomfort to throbbing pain and may signal issues such as cavities, infections, or gum disease. If your child complains of persistent pain, it’s crucial to contact us immediately. Rinsing with warm water and using a cold compress can provide temporary relief.

Broken, Chipped, or Knocked-Out Teeth

A broken or chipped tooth can become a serious problem if left untreated, possibly leading to infection or further damage. A knocked-out tooth requires immediate attention—time is critical for successful re-implantation. If this happens, find the tooth, hold it by the crown, and gently rinse it without scrubbing. Keep it in a milk container or your child’s saliva until you can reach an emergency pediatric dentist.

Bleeding Gums or Loose Teeth

Bleeding after a fall or an accident, especially when accompanied by loose teeth, needs immediate evaluation. While some bleeding might occur with new teeth or from a minor injury, excessive and continuous bleeding warrants an urgent visit to your emergency dentist in Greenville.

How Fast Should I Seek Help From Wilson Pediatrics?

When You Need to Act Quickly

If your child experiences severe pain, has a fever or swelling in the mouth or face, or has sustained an injury to the mouth or teeth, it’s crucial to seek emergency dental care. At Wilson Dental, we can provide prompt and effective treatment to alleviate pain and address the issue.

When You Can Monitor and Wait

Some dental issues, while uncomfortable, can wait for a scheduled appointment. Mild tooth sensitivity, small chips without pain, or a lost filling typically don’t constitute an emergency. However, we encourage you to call us so we can advise you on the next steps and schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience.

Be Prepared for the Future

Be prepared for dental emergencies by keeping a small dental first aid kit that includes our contact information, saline solution, gauze, a small container with a lid, and over-the-counter pain relief.

Your Partners in Pediatric Dental Care

Your child’s oral health is our top priority at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry. We are more than just your emergency pediatric dentist; we aim to be a partner in maintaining your child’s dental health. If you’re unsure whether your child is experiencing a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Contact Wilson Pediatric Dentistry right away.

Common Dental Issues in Children and How a Pediatric Dentist Can Help

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry


 
Teaching children healthy dental hygiene at a young age is important to promote oral health and prevent the most common dental issues. Yet, even with regular brushing and a healthy lifestyle, children can face dental issues that require a pediatric dentist or an emergency dentist in Greenville for proper care. If your child needs a cavity filling in Greenville, NC, disking, or another dental treatment, you’ll need someone you can trust to care for their teeth.

Dental issues are more common in adults than children, but that doesn’t mean they’re nonexistent. Some of the most common dental issues that affect children include cavities, otherwise known as tooth decay, crowding, misalignment, or losing a tooth too early.

At Wilson Pediatric Dentistry, we offer treatments that can address and correct these issues. Our emergency dentist is also available to provide emergency care to pediatric patients with a dental emergency.

Treating Cavities

Cavities are a form of tooth decay common among children, including those who live a healthy lifestyle and consume a limited amount of sugar. Forty-two percent of children get cavities between two and 11 years of age. If your child has a cavity, they must receive a cavity filling in Greenville, NC, to stop and prevent further decay and restore a uniform appearance to the truth.

One way to prevent cavities is by applying sealants to the back teeth, the most common chewing surfaces. When applied to the back molars, this thin plastic layer creates a protective barrier on the tooth that can help prevent decay in those areas that are harder to clean with a toothbrush.

Treating Overcrowding With Disking

Overcrowding is a common issue among children as they lose baby teeth, and permanent teeth replace those baby teeth. Sometimes, there isn’t enough room for the incoming permanent teeth, which can increase the risk of cavities or cause alignment issues, also increasing the potential need for future orthodontic care.

This treatment involves shaving off very thin layers of the surrounding teeth to make extra room for incoming permanent teeth to prevent misalignment and reduce the need for braces or other orthodontic treatments.

Treating Premature Tooth Loss

Children must lose baby teeth to make room for permanent teeth, but sometimes, they lose them sooner than they should. As a result, the surrounding teeth can become misaligned as they come in, requiring future orthodontic care. There’s a simple way to treat this issue: with space maintainers. Space maintainers are designed to maintain the necessary space for the incoming new tooth to promote alignment.

Treating Crooked Teeth

Misalignment is one of the most common dental issues that affect children and teenagers alike. There’s an easy way to address misalignment, and it begins with proper early orthodontic care from a dentist in Greenville, NC. Children can achieve and maintain straighter teeth by taking steps to promote alignment early on. Early orthodontic treatment plans can be designed for children as young as six years old.

Regular pediatric dental care is key to maintaining healthy teeth and promoting a beautiful smile. Whether your child suffers from a minor or more severe pediatric dental issue or needs an emergency dentist in Greenville, we can design a treatment plan that promotes optimal oral health. Contact us today at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry to learn more about our treatments and to schedule an appointment.

Benefits of Dental Disking

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Oral Health
When a child’s permanent teeth come through, it can lead to crowding in the mouth and misalignment. No one wants such an exciting and momentous occasion to be ruined by these concerns, but luckily, there is a sophisticated way to correct them and leave teeth looking straight. It’s called disking: a method of finely shaving existing teeth so that there’s space for new ones. It’s now available at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry.

 

Benefits of Dental Disking

How Does This Treatment Work?

During this procedure, one of our trained dentists will carefully shave down the existing teeth of the patient to make more space for the incoming tooth. This will involve shaving either one or both of the teeth next to the new tooth. 

 

Because only the enamel is being touched, it’s a painless procedure and is very suitable for children. Our dentist can determine if this treatment is worthwhile using a Dental X-ray during a regular dental exam.

 

Why Should I Consider This Treatment for My Child?

By treating overcrowding and misalignment early, you may avoid orthodontic work down the road. Solutions such as braces become necessary when teeth are not straight, or too close together. Not only can braces be an uncomfortable and drawn-out process for your child, but they can be incredibly expensive. 

 

This treatment is often covered by insurance, which again makes it a great option for wallet-conscious parents. Check with your insurance provider to see if pediatric dentistry procedures are covered.

 

Is This Treatment Right for My Child?

Our experienced kids’ dentist in Greenville, NC, will be able to determine if this treatment is the best course of action or if there is an alternate technique that might be better suited to your child. For example, if they have lost a baby tooth prematurely, space maintainers may be recommended. These devices ensure existing teeth remain far enough apart so that there’s space for new teeth. If effective, space maintainers may negate the need for the shaving of teeth down the road.

Simple, cost-effective, and almost pain-free, disking can be an extremely potent way to correct a child’s teeth, leaving them with a healthy, hearty smile. Schedule an appointment with our local pediatric dentist in Greenville, NC. We are an ideal destination for treating all kinds of oral health concerns, as well as offering services like X-rays, emergency procedures, and even early orthodontic treatments. Your child should be visiting a dentist from as early as one-year-old, so come by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry today.

Why Pediatric Dentists Outshine Regular Dentists

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Used Cars

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.

 

Why Does My Child Keep Getting Cavities?

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

child cavity filling

It can be challenging when your children get cavities, even though you help them brush and try to limit sugary foods. Cavities are common, affecting more than half of kids by age 8, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. When our patients need a cavity filling in Greenville, NC, we explain why cavities occur and provide tips to prevent future tooth decay. We’ve also developed this guide to help keep your kids’ teeth cavity-free.

Causes of Cavities

Cavities occur when bacteria in the mouth combine with food particles on the teeth to form plaque. This sticky substance erodes the tooth’s protective enamel and eventually creates a tiny hole called a cavity. 

Cavities are more common in children who:

  • Do not brush and floss regularly
  • Do not visit the dentist at least once a year
  • Eat foods that leave starch and sugar on the teeth, including sweets, candy, bread, cereal, fruit juice, and soda
  • Live somewhere without fluoride in the water supply

Cavity Treatments for Kids

If your child has a cavity, treatment can prevent tooth loss and the spread of decay. Cavity treatments typically require fillings. The dentist will remove the affected part of the tooth and fill the hole with a durable material such as resin or acrylic.

If a cavity gets too large, the dentist may need to remove the entire tooth and replace it with an artificial tooth called a crown. 

Steps to Prevent Cavities

You can take these steps to reduce the chance that your child will get cavities.

Start Cleaning Teeth Right Away

Clean your child’s first baby teeth with a soft piece of gauze as soon as you see them emerge. Help toddlers and preschoolers brush with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Supervise brushing and flossing until your child can clean teeth independently (at least 6 for most kids).

Emphasize Good Nutrition

Consider replacing fruit juice and soda with water to reduce the risk of cavities. Feeding your child a healthy diet with limited sugary snacks and sweets is also important.

You should also visit a pediatric dentist for cleanings and checkups every 6 months. Wilson Pediatric Dentistry provides comprehensive oral health care for children, including dental fillings in Greenville, NC. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for your kids so we can help you develop a strong cavity-prevention plan.