Pediatric Dentistry in Edmonton
We at Ellerslie 66 Dental promote dental care for children as much as anyone else’s dental services. As parents’, your participation in helping care for your child’s teeth at home is hugely important. Without parents’ support, children will not be able to maintain their dental health no matter the dentist’s specialized training.
Home Preventive Care
Young children aren’t the best at cleaning their own teeth. Often, parent(s) must do it for them and help them as they get older.
Even before infant children have teeth, parents should start cleaning their tongue and gum using a soft gauze and can continue after teeth appear. Parents can also start using rubber toothbrushes and soft toothbrushes.
When children have good motor skills, they are ready to brush their teeth on their own. Still, parents should check to make sure they clean well.
Regular Pediatric Dental Examination
Visiting a dentist within 6 months of the first tooth appearing is recommended by the Canadian Dental Association (CDA). As we emphasize in preventative dentistry, preventative care measures before problems occur or get more serious is important. A dental exam every 6 months is best if your child has had cavities before, otherwise, every 12 months should do. Another important reason for regular dental office visits for children is to teach them good oral habits and learn the importance of oral health care from childhood.
Digital X-Rays
When a child can tolerate the digital sensors, x-rays will be taken to show decay between teeth (which normally can not be seen in the mouth) and to show whether teeth are coming in and/or coming in the expected way.
PFS (pit-and-fissure sealants)
Pits and fissures are natural, although they vary in size. If they are wide and big, but narrow and small, it is very easy for food and bacteria to be trapped in and cause decay. In these cases, we recommend sealant, which is a kind of resin/plastic material that glues to the tooth surfaces to seal the pits and grooves which prevents cavities.
Tooth Brushes
Soft toothbrushes of the right size are recommended. They should be replaced once the bristles are bent or worn down.
Toothpaste
Once a child can spit things out, toothpaste with fluoride is recommended. Only use a small amount of toothpaste every time. For a child who can not spit yet, training toothpaste can be used.
Public Water
Public water in Edmonton is fluoridated, so let your children drink public water; it can prevent cavities.