Learn How Xylitol Can Help Children's Teeth

There's a new "sugar" on the market, and it's one you won't have to worry about your kids getting their hands on. It's called xylitol, a naturally occurring carbohydrate that looks and tastes like regular sugar. But since it's not actually sugar, it won't cause cavities in your children's teeth. In fact, Xylitol has been approved by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) for reducing the risk of cavities in younger children.

What is Xylitol?

So we've already said xylitol is a naturally occurring carbohydrate, but where does it come from? Xylitol can be found in most of the fruits and vegetables that we eat on a daily basis, just in small amounts. In fact, it even occurs naturally in our bodies, with the average size adult manufacturing up to 15 grams of xylitol per day. For commercial purposes, however, manufacturers extract xylitol from corncobs or trees. In its pure form, xylitol takes the form of a white crystalline substance that looks and tastes like sugar.

How is it used?

There are several ways you can use xylitol. You can use its pure crystalline form as a sweetener, whether you're pouring it over your child's cereal or sprinkling it on some fresh strawberries. Xylitol can also be found in several oral care products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash. There are even xylitol gums and mints. Dental experts recommend children use a 100 percent xylitol product 6-7 times per day whether it is a mint or chewing gum containing xylitol.  The frequency of use is more important than the amount used and products containing less than 100 percent are not effective enough to help the dentition.

Benefits of Xylitol

There are many benefits of Xylitol that have been proven to help the oral health of kids when their teeth are still developing. Tooth decay occurs due to bacteria in the mouth multiplying and then releasing an acid that causes the tooth to weaken (demineralize) and decay. Unfortunately brushing and flossing only temporarily remove bacteria from the teeth.
Xylitol acts like a deterrent for these bacteria and keeps the acid levels down. In addition to reducing the risk of tooth decay, it also reduces plaque formation and increases the flow of saliva to aid in the repair of damaged tooth enamel.
If there are early signs of tooth decay in children less than five, it is a good idea to seek the help of a kids' dentist. Those who cater to the young and growing will be able to focus better on the dental needs of a child than someone who only treats adults. Overall, keeping good dental hygiene and brushing twice a day will reduce the risk of cavities and Xylitol can supplement that to prevent the acid formation. Simple ways like this are better paths to take than dental work in the future.

Ideas on How to Make Oral Hygiene Fun For Kids

For some kids, brushing and flossing is like a chore that they do once in the morning and once at night. However, it doesn't have to be this way! Making oral hygiene fun can have lasting effects and can even make kids take an interest in keeping their mouths clean and healthy.

There's an App For That

It's recommended that a child brushes his or her teeth for two minutes. A fun way to make sure they get the full two minutes in is to use a brushing app that plays a song for two minutes and have your child brush as long as the music is playing. Pick something they like and will make them want to stay there the entire time. A smile on their face while brushing will make the time pass faster. Also, if the song is something they really enjoy they might even look forward to the next time they get to brush.

Visits from the Tooth Fairy 

Every child is different when it comes to losing teeth.  Some kids love the idea of losing teeth because that means they are growing up!  Others don’t like losing teeth because eating can become uncomfortable until the tooth falls out.  A good way to make this fun is by using the story of the tooth fairy. Tell your child a new tooth will grow back soon but the tooth fairy will come and give some money in exchange for the tooth that has come out.  This is a great opportunity to talk about brushing and flossing.  Explain that the tooth fairy loves to see teeth in good shape so she knows that the child is doing a good job brushing and flossing.   I have had some parents say the tooth fairy does not bring money for teeth with cavities that come out!

Prize Winning Teeth 

A kids' dentist can show children what can happen to their teeth if they don't brush.  Some dentists even give prizes for good oral hygiene or a good visit.  If your child’s dentist doesn't give out toys, perhaps you could find a small way to reward them for their good oral report.  A reward system, such as a brushing and flossing chart with stickers, is a great way for children to get motivated.  Then on the chart, have a spot for the six month check-ups that has a special sticker or reward to be given for a good visit.  Oral hygiene doesn't have to be a difficult task every day.  Just by making brushing and flossing into something fun, you could see an improvement in the oral health.

School Lunches That Promote Healthy Teeth

With school in session, it is time to start packing lunches for the kids again. It can be easy to pack processed lunches or have children buy lunch at school rather than taking the time to prepare something healthy. But packing a healthy lunch can be critical to children's oral health. Find out what foods to include in children's school lunches to make sure their teeth stay strong.

Healthy Sandwiches

Most lunches will typically include a sandwich. To make it healthier, use whole grain wheat bread instead of white bread. If you're making them a turkey or ham sandwich, consider adding a piece of cheese. Cheese is a great source of calcium and a certain type of protein called casein. You can spice things up further by adding vegetables such as tomatoes and lettuce if your child likes.
If your child isn't a fan of sandwiches or just wants to mix things up, hummus offers a healthy alternative.

Yogurt and Milk 

If your child does not like the food you pack, there is a chance he or she might not eat all of it or simply throw it away. A healthy snack your kids are sure to enjoy is a nice cup of yogurt. Yogurt is packed with nutrients and oftentimes fruit, making it a great choice. Plus, it's easy to eat.  Make sure to read the labels so you don’t buy yogurt filled with sugar!
Milk is always great for the teeth, but if your child is getting bored with traditional milk, try chocolate or strawberry milk. They will still get the added calcium and the added flavor will make it fun to drink. When you're buying milk, skip the whole milk varieties in favor of 1 percent or even skim if your children will drink it.

Fresh Veggies

For a side item, it's easy to pack some chips since it's already packed neatly. Eating a bag of chips every day, even the snack-size version, isn't good for your child's teeth. Instead, try vegetables such as carrots or celery. See what your child likes to dip with them in.  A small amount of ranch can go a long way in making veggies more appetizing for kids.
Packing a lunch can be fun for the parents and the children. Getting your child involved in the process can be a valuable experience. Talk to your child to see which healthy foods he or she likes or is willing to try. That way you know you're packing a healthy lunch that they will enjoy all while maintaining their oral health.

Fun Fall Crafts to do With Your Children

With the cooler weather, visits to the children's dentist for back-to-school checkups and busy mornings rushing to catch the school bus, fall can be a busy time for kids and parents. The perfect way to relax and enjoy the change in seasons is by doing fun fall crafts with the kids. Crafts provide a great opportunity for kids to get creative as well as get outside to collect some supplies that can be used to make their projects.

Personalized Fall Coasters

Fall coasters are easy to make and they are the perfect craft for little hands.

What you’ll need:

• 4-inch square ceramic tiles
• Decoupage glue
• Scissors
• Leaves
• Felt
• Paintbrush
• Marker

Instructions:

1. Clean the tiles with a damp cloth and allow to dry.
2. Let the children use a marker to write their name on the top of a ceramic tile.
3. Allow the marker ink to dry before proceeding.
4. Using a paintbrush, apply a layer of decoupage glue to the top of a ceramic tile.
5. Attach a leaf in the center of the tile.
6. Apply a thin layer of decoupage glue over the top and outside of the leaf.
7. Allow glue to dry and apply three or four more coats of decoupage glue.
8. Cut a piece of felt to fit the back of the tile and glue in place using decoupage glue.

Fall Wreath

After visiting the kids' dentist, take a walk in the park or around the neighborhood to collect a variety of items from nature, such as pine cones, acorns, leaves and twigs. The best thing about this fall wreath is there is no right or wrong way to make it and you can use whatever items you have on hand to decorate it.

Basic supplies needed:

• Foam ring
• Tissue paper or construction paper
• Glue
• Decoration items (leaves, flowers, pine cones, etc.)

Instructions:

• Glue tissue paper or construction paper around the foam ring.
• Cover the outside of the tissue/construction paper by using glue to attach the items found during your walk.

Gather a variety of items from the yard and around the house, get creative and allow the kids to use their imagination. Using recycled items is a fun way to get children to use their imagination. For example, the children's dentist will often give them a new toothbrush during their visit, but instead of tossing the old one, wash it with soap and water, allow it to dry and use it as a paintbrush. Dental floss can also be used to hang decorative items on a fall themed mobile.

How Do I Care for My Toddler's Teeth?

Caring for toddler's teeth can be a challenge. Although a toddler's teeth are small, they are like the teeth of an adult and must be properly cared for in order to maintain good oral health and hygiene. These tips and guidelines will help you keep your toddler's teeth and overall oral health in the best condition possible.

Create a Routine

Your child's oral health starts with you. As a parent, you need to make sure you are doing your part in your child’s brushing and flossing routine because children do not develop adequate hand-eye coordination to do a good job brushing and flossing until about the ages of 8 to 10 years. The most important times a child should brush and floss his or her teeth are in the morning and before they go to bed. Creating a routine can be difficult but it's not impossible. You will have to help your toddler each time.  It is best to let the child brush and floss first, so that way he or she gets to practice and can develop the needed hand-eye coordination to do a good job. The best way to teach your toddler how to brush his or her teeth is to lead by example. Brush your teeth the same time your toddler is brushing his or her teeth. 

Locate a Dental Office

Finding a dental office you are comfortable with is in the best interest of you and your child. A children’s dentist is the ideal dentist for your child. A general dentist can be used, but a kids' dentist specializes in the comfort, care and health of children. When you are trying to find a dental office for your toddler, consider its location, how far it is from your home and the type of insurance that is accepted.

Schedule Regular Check-Ups

Scheduling regular check-ups is perfect preventative care for cavities, gum disease and other issues that can occur due to poor oral hygiene. By your toddler's first birthday, your child should be seen by a kid-friendly dentist.

Ration the Juice

While it is okay to give your toddler juice, do not let them sip it for an extended period of time.  The time it takes them to drink the juice is more critical than the amount of juice they drink.  Juice can be given to your toddler each day but it is only recommended with meals.   Water or a sugar free beverage should be used for between meals or for sipping.

Teach Good Habits

Teaching your toddler good habits is the best way to prepare for the future. Teach them how to properly use a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss, and tell them why it's important to brush and floss their teeth at least twice each day.

Kids Using Tobacco: Why Kids Smoke and the Risk of Using Tobacco

There is a number of health risks associated with smoking, yet teenagers continue to smoke and/or use smokeless tobacco. Each day, there are approximately 3900 children between the ages 12-17 smoke their first cigarette. Over 950 of them will become regular smokers and about half of them will die from smoking in adulthood. For these reasons, it is essential that children understand the dangers associated with smoking and the use of smokeless tobacco.

Why Kids Begin Smoking

There are several reasons why children may start smoking. Some of the most common reasons children may be attracted to smoking and/or chewing tobacco include:

• To act older
• To lose weight
• To look cool
• To do something dangerous
• To satisfy curiosity
• To appear tough
• To feel independent
• To win tobacco related merchandise

Signs Your Child May Be Smoking

It is essential as a parent to establish good communication with children early to make tricky issues, like smoking, easier. Giving children information about the risks associated with smoking may help to protect them from this unhealthy habit. Ask your child’s dentist to talk with them about the risks to their oral health from smoking and if you suspect your child may be using tobacco products, make sure they see a kid’s dentist as soon as possible. Warning signs your child is smoking may include:

• Odor of smoke on their clothing
• Bad breath
• Frequent complaints of throat irritation
• Coughing
• Decrease in their athletic performance
• Shortness of breath
• Stained and/or yellow teeth

The Oral and Physical Health Risks of Tobacco Use

Smoking and/or using smokeless tobacco kills hundreds of people each year. Tobacco contains nicotine and several other poisonous chemicals that cause a range of diseases, including heart problems and cancer. Tobacco use can have a significant impact on the overall oral health of a child. Some of the effects of smoking and using smokeless tobacco may include:

• Throat cancer
• Mouth cancer
• Heart disease
• Bone loss
• Tooth loss
• Gum disease
• Stained teeth

To help prevent your children from using tobacco products, it is important to discuss the issue in a way that doesn't make kids fear a punishment or feel as though they are being judged. It is also important to continue talking to children about the dangers of tobacco use throughout their childhood and into adulthood. Discuss ways your child can respond to smoking and peer pressure and encourage their self-confidence, which will help protect them against peer pressure. Visit a kids' dentist with your child for more information on the dangers of smoking and oral health.

Care and Prevention of Toothaches in Children

A child's toothache can be caused by many different things but common causes of toothaches include tooth decay, dental trauma, loose teeth or erupting teeth and food wedged between the teeth. 

When Should You Contact Your Children's Dentist?

You should contact a kids' dentist when your child shows signs of pain. A few indications your child may need to be seen by the dentist include:

• Swollen face
• Acts or looks under the weather
• Severe pain that has not subsided within an hour or two
• Red or yellow lump present in the area of the gum line
• Visible brown cavity or hole in the tooth

Caring for Toothaches at Home

Until your child is able to see the dentist, try some of these at home remedies to help relieve the pain:

• Floss between your kids teeth to remove any impacted food
• Give your child over-the-counter pain reliever to help dull the pain
• If toothache is caused by an injury or trauma, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek.

Scheduling an Appointment

Your child's toothache may require a dental visit to repair any damages and put preventive care into perspective. An appointment should be scheduled if the toothache does not go away within a 24-hour time frame. Most toothache causes can be treated in a timely manner and resolved permanently as long as the proper preventative measures are followed. After the appointment, make sure you help keep your child's teeth in top-of-the-line condition by teaching them proper oral health habits. Depending upon your child's oral health, your child may require more frequent visits to the dentist until all issues and concerns have been resolved.

Dental Sealants for Kids

Dental sealants are an easy, pain-free way to help prevent cavities and are especially useful for kids. Kids can be prone to cavities if they do not form healthy brushing and flossing habits early on in childhood. A dental sealant is applied to the teeth that have grooves, mainly in the chewing or cheek surfaces of the teeth, to prevent food from getting stuck and bacteria from entering the grooves and forming cavities. Here are questions parents often have for their kids' dentist about sealants:

1. Why isn't brushing and flossing enough?

Sometimes the chewing grooves on a tooth are too tight for toothbrush bristles to get in to the grooves and clean out food and bacteria.  Placing a sealant to seal the grooves then makes the surfaces of the teeth that have grooves more cleanable so cavities are not as easily formed.  This benefits children since they are learning how to brush their teeth and still developing the hand-eye coordination to do a good job.  Sometimes cleaning the back molars can be difficult since they are hard to see and reach for the undeveloped hand muscles.  Most children have sufficient hand-eye coordination to clean teeth between the ages of 8-10 years old.

2. What are dental sealants made of? Are dental sealants safe?

Dental sealants are made of plastic that starts off as a liquid and flows in to the grooves of the teeth which is then hardened with a curing light. Dental sealants are very safe. The plastic materials are not made with BPA and there is no health or medical concerns associated with dental sealants according to the American Dental Association.

4. Are they expensive?

Dental insurance typically covers dental sealants. For many patients, sealants are affordable. Dental sealants save many patients money because they prevent cavities and can eliminate the need for fillings if properly cared for.

5. How are dental sealants applied?

Dental sealants are very easy to apply. The sealant is applied directly to the tooth, where it bonds to the enamel. The liquid plastic flows in to every groove in the tooth and essentially makes the surface smooth and cleanable. This boosts the effectiveness of brushing and flossing. It's quick and pain-free.

6. Do they last a long time?

A sealant can last for years. Depending on how children care for their teeth and what foods they eat, the sealants may stay in place for life.  Sticky, tacky foods can pull sealants off however. Your dentist may also apply touch-ups at every visit to ensure the sealant will last even longer.

7. Do they require special care?

A dental sealant does not require specific care or maintenance. Your child will be able to eat and drink normally and can eat his or her favorite foods with the exception of sticky foods like taffy or Tootsie rolls for example. Your child can brush and floss normally. There are no special mouth washes or rinses required. In fact, your child can eat the same day the sealant is applied.

Dental sealants are a great way to protect your children's permanent teeth from decay and cavities. Ask us today to see if they are the right option for your child!

Risk Assessment Tool

Your child's teeth are important, but it may be difficult for parents to determine if their child needs the attention of a dentist or not. While annual cleanings are easy to remember and schedule even if there is not an issue, it may be difficult to determine if your child needs further attention or if they are doing well with their teeth and oral care.

That is where the pediatric risk assessment tool comes in handy. We here at Playtime Dental use this tool at each cleaning to determine if your child needs further care and also to identify any issues or risk factors that may lead to a need for more dental work. The tool first looks at a wide range of factors that may affect the overall health of your child's teeth. Who takes care of the child's teeth, has there been decay in the past 12 months, do they use a bottle or a sippy cup, do they snack often, do they have special needs, etc.? These factors will let the doctor know what type of potential issues they may be looking for so that they can more accurately address any issues that are present.

The tool also looks at what type of preventative efforts you and your child are taking as part of their oral health:

• Does your child visit the dentist regularly?
• Do they brush?
• Do they floss?
• Do they use a fluoride rinse?
• Do they drink fluoridated water?
• Do they snack frequently?
• Do they sip on beverages or drink them quickly?

These factors will help the dentist determine how likely it is that there will be issues with your child’s teeth.
Your kids' dentist will then mark any findings that were present with the checkup. Did they find decay, broken teeth, white spots lesions (start of cavities), or excessive plaque, etc.? This is the chance for the dentist and staff to talk with the parent about everything that they found during the cleaning, which makes diagnosing and choosing a treatment plan option much easier.


The last aspect of the assessment tool is to consider what options are available for treating any issues found. Determining if the patient is a high or low caries risk guides treatment decisions. Some issues will not need dental intervention and can be taken care of at home by improving or increasing the frequency of, or by adding, brushing, flossing or a fluoride rinse to the patient’s routine. If further dental intervention needed, your dentist will suggest the solution that is going to be least difficult or traumatizing for the child and will help parents put a treatment method in place so that your child can have the healthy teeth that they need.

What Are Space Maintainers?

One of the first questions most parents ask after being told their child may need a space maintainer is, "What is a space maintainer, and why it is necessary?"

Sometimes a baby tooth may be lost too early due to accident, decay or medical conditions. When a tooth is lost too early, in most cases it is important to maintain that space so the other teeth do not drift in to this space and block the new adult tooth from coming in later.  Your kids' dentist will help you determine how early is too early and whether a lost baby tooth will require a space maintainer.  A space maintainer is a small metal band that goes around one of the teeth on either side of the space where the missing tooth is, which has loop wire that crosses over the space where a tooth is missing and touches the other tooth.  This holds the space open for the growing adult tooth.  It is important to note that baby teeth that are lost naturally usually do not require a space maintainer, as the permanent tooth is not far behind.  However, it is always best to check with your dentist to see if it is necessary.

Each tooth in your child's mouth serves several purposes:

• aids in digestion by biting or chewing food
• aids in speech
• holds the posture of the jaw
• guides permanent teeth into the correct position.

Losing a baby tooth can affect numerous aspects of your child's life, including comfort when eating, enunciation, health and comfort of the jaw, and the alignment of the permanent teeth. Misaligned permanent teeth can cause jaw pain and discomfort, decay where teeth are crowded, and poor self-esteem in a child.

Space maintainers have been developed to address the position in which permanent teeth come in. By maintaining the space that the lost baby tooth occupied, it allows room for the permanent tooth to come in naturally and correctly. Failing to maintain the space can cause more than misalignment; if teeth move forward into the position of the lost tooth and a permanent tooth starts to erupt, it can cause damage to the roots of other permanent teeth, resulting in significant expense, inconvenience, or even loss of healthy teeth.


Parents of children who have lost baby teeth due to accident, decay or medical conditions should seek the opinion of a qualified kids' dentist to determine if their child needs space maintainers. Be sure to explain your child's history thoroughly and honestly and ask any questions you may have during your time with the dentist. Playtime Dental would love to visit with you today to create a proactive treatment plan for your child.

Parents Play a Role in Kids' Dentist Appointments and Experience

When heading to your kids' dentist appointment, do you dread the process? Are you worried about the fit your child will have once he or she knows where you are headed? Don't be. As a parent, you play a big role in your children's perception of dental visits. In short, you can create a more positive experience for not only you but your child as well with a few simple steps.

1. Start dental care early.

Your child should start seeing the dentist as early as their first tooth, but no later than their first birthday. The earlier you introduce your child to the process of visiting the dentist, and making it a part of their regular routine, the better. As a result the child begins to get used to the process and knows it is nothing to fear. 

2. Be your child's role model.

Don't speak negatively about going to the dentist. Show your child that the process is a good thing with ample health benefits.

3. Decide if it should be a big deal.

For young children, reading a few books about going to the dentist, talking about it and making it a big deal is an excellent way to create positivity around this experience. Or if your child isn't likely to benefit from that, make it "not a big deal" but a routine process.

4. Teach your child the importance of dental care.

Good oral hygiene starts at home with brushing and flossing. At the same time, discuss the benefits of going to the dentist with your child. The dentist will check your child's teeth, clean them and make sure they are in tip-top shape! Be sure your child understands all of these benefits.

5. Do it together.

Don't expect your children, even those in middle school, to be able and willing to go on their own into the dental office. Be supportive. Keep conversations light and fun. When your child is around be sure to interact with the dentist, so that the dentist becomes more of a friend than a doctor.

All of these steps can help to improve your child's perception of going to the dentist. By establishing a strong connection to going to the dentist at a young age, you can help steer your child on the right path to good oral health. Be sure to act as a role model for your child's opinions and perception of dental care.

When will my child lose his or her first tooth?

The weeks leading up to the loss of a child’s first tooth, are an exciting time for both kids and parents. This is an important mile marker in the road from infant to adulthood, and one that deserves attention. Many parents are unsure when to expect their child to experience the loss of his or her first tooth. While it is impossible to pinpoint the exact time frame for each individual, most kids will lose their first tooth around the age of six.

Why Kids Loose Teeth

Baby teeth, or deciduous teeth, are lost when a child’s permanent teeth begin to emerge. These “adult” teeth need room to grow, and will slowly push the baby teeth out of their way. For most kids, the first tooth to come out will be a lower, or mandibular, incisor, one of the bottom front two teeth. This tooth may become loose over the course of several weeks, and this is often a long process through which a child will wiggle and nudge the tooth with their tongue or fingers.  Your child may even say the tooth hurts when he or she bites or chews with it.  This discomfort will subside when the too comes out or exfoliates.

Should I Pull the Tooth or Not?

If your child is eager to pull the tooth, simply cover the tooth with a piece of gauze or a tissue and give a quick twist and a tug. If he or she insists on letting the tooth come out naturally, sit back and enjoy the wait. Some kids will worry about a loose tooth for quite a while, until almost nothing is left holding the tooth in place! Either approach is perfectly normal and parents should allow their kids to guide the process, especially for the first loose tooth.

Talking to Kids about Brushing Their Teeth

This is an excellent time to talk with your child about the importance of proper dental hygiene. After all, baby teeth come and go, but the permanent teeth that follow are intended to be, well, permanent. Review proper brushing and flossing practices, and follow up with regular parental “inspections.” It takes time and practice to master proper dental care routines, and parents are wise to broach the issue at this time, when kids are very focused on a loose tooth.

What If Baby Teeth Fall Out Too Slowly?

Parents who are concerned that a child is not losing baby teeth at a normal rate, or who have questions about other dental issues, should make an appointment to meet with their kids' dentist. This is also a great time to discuss whether fluoride supplements are appropriate.
Kids should come in for a dental checkup and cleaning twice a year, which can be key to addressing dental issues before they become a problem. Regular visits to a kids' dentist will give children a positive impression of dental care, which is important establishing a healthy dental care routine.  

Dental X-Rays Help Keep Kids' Teeth Healthy

If you're like many parents, you may wonder whether or how often your children need dental X-rays. Here at Playtime Dental, we believe that children's dental X-rays are an important tool for finding hard-to-see cavities and diagnosing oral disease in its early stages, when it's easiest to treat. So make sure your kids' dentist gives your kids X-rays as needed.

What's the Purpose of Dental X-rays?

Dental X-rays, like other types of X-rays, use beams of X-ray radiation to take black-and-white photos that show your child's bones, teeth, and other oral structures including the roots of the teeth. There are several types of dental X-rays, including:

• Bitewings: used to take X-rays of the back teeth to show cavities between the teeth and bone levels
• Periapicals: used to take photos of the teeth & roots to look for cavities and/or other pathology (i.e. infection)
• Panoramic X-rays: used to take photos of the entire jaw and all of the teeth. Used to monitor growth and development as well as look for pathology (i.e. infection). This x-ray is not good for diagnosing cavities
• Cone beam CTs: used to take three-dimensional pictures of the jaw. Used for orthodontic, oral surgery and implant treatment planning

How Often Do Children Need Dental X-Rays?

It used to be the case that dentists recommended yearly dental X-rays for all children. But the LA Times reports that those guidelines have changed. Dental X-rays are no longer treated as a routine diagnostic procedure to be performed at every exam. They are administered based on each child's needs. Your kids' dentist may see no need to take dental X-rays if your children have no evidence of dental disease. Children with a higher risk of dental disease may need X-rays every six months, while low-risk kids may only need them every 12 to 18 months. These guidelines minimize kids' exposure to X-ray radiation.

Why Do Children Need Dental X-Rays?

Dental X-rays can help your kids' dentist find problems with the teeth and the jaw that aren't immediately apparent from the oral exam. They can also help dentists spot any cavities that might be growing between the teeth. X-rays help dentists diagnose oral disease reliably and quickly. This is important because keeping your kids' mouth healthy keeps their whole body healthy. Thanks to X-rays, kids today enjoy better oral and overall health than ever before.

The Cons of Oral Piercings for Teens

After months and months of begging, you finally gave in and let your teenager get an oral piercing. Now your kid may be the biggest hit at school, but in the meantime, your trepidations have returned. As a good parent, you're right to feel some reservations about your teen's tongue piercing. This can actually be a big source of trouble for the mouth and could even cause dental problems and diseases.

The biggest and most obvious risk, as with all piercings, is that of infection.  The mouth contains millions of bacteria and unlike a skin infection in the ear or nose caused from an earring, if your teen's mouth gets an infection from a piercing, the area will swell up significantly and be very painful.  In the case of a large infection, your child’s airway could even be restricted, which could be deadly.

Even if your kid doesn't have an infection from his or her piercing, other oral problems can and do occur more subtly over time. First of all, constantly exposing the teeth to the metal of the piercing can strip away enamel, whether it's a ball-shaped barbell or a traditional ring. Once enamel is gone, it doesn't return. The teeth may look unattractive and are at a higher risk of developing cavities.

Besides that, your teenager can also find himself saddled with localized periodontal disease that they most likely wouldn't have gotten otherwise. Periodontal disease occurs when the gums recede.  When the gums start to recede, the bone that holds the teeth in is typically lost as well and your kid's teeth can possibly fall out in the advanced stages if they develop this disease.

Other little annoyances can occur with an oral piercing as well, such as an increase of drooling, increased chance of cracking or chipping the teeth or dental restorations, bad breath if the piercing is not cleaned multiple times daily, and the development of a speech impediment. More seriously, if a tongue piercing is not done carefully, nerve damage is also a possibility.  This can affect the person’s ability to taste, talk and move the tongue.


Parents that are having second thoughts about their teen's oral piercing can come by and visit Playtime Dental to discuss the next steps, including removal. Appropriate for children of all ages, the atmosphere at this kids' dentist is designed to make young patients feel at ease as they learn how to take better care of their teeth and mouths.

Periodontal Disease in Kids

Periodontal disease is a growing problem among children, particularly those at the onset of puberty. Periodontal disease, sometimes referred to as gum disease, is a serious problem that can affect one's overall health and contribute to gum, bone, and tooth loss.  

What Types of Periodontal Disease Are Common in Children?

During puberty, abrupt hormonal changes cause increased circulation to the gums, which may cause them to become more sensitive to food particles or inadequate oral hygiene. Three types of periodontal disease are common:

• Chronic gingivitis is the most common gum disease in children. Easily avoided through brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits, chronic gingivitis can cause red and swollen gums. Sometimes the gums may bleed, particularly when flossing. If left untreated, it can progress to more serious forms of periodontal disease.
• Aggressive periodontitis is most commonly found in teens and young adults. The condition generally affects the first molars and incisors and is characterized by a loss of alveolar bone.
• Generalized aggressive periodontitis usually begins around puberty and is characterized by heavy plaque and calculus (tartar) build-up. If not treated, tooth loss may result.

Advice for Parents

Parents are important role models when it comes to the importance of oral hygiene and care.  By taking excellent care of your own teeth, you show your children the importance of keeping a healthy mouth.  In addition, we recommend:

• Looking at your child's gums and teeth for evidence of bleeding and swelling. Gums that have a bright red appearance or are visibly pulling away from the teeth are evidence of periodontal disease 
• Encouraging an oral care routine that involves twice daily brushing and flossing early. This will pay off as your child becomes more independent and these practices remain habits
• Ensuring that your child visits a kids' dentist twice each year for a routine cleaning (or prophylaxis) and evaluation. This type of cleaning removes calculus (tartar) and plaque at the gum line, which can lead to gum irritation and gingivitis, thus preventing periodontal disease. 

Your kids' dentist is your partner in oral health. Make certain you contact the office right away if you suspect your child may have the beginning signs of gum disease. Caught early, gum disease is highly treatable and permanent damage can be avoided.

Using Teeth as Tools Can Have Costly Consequences

When people think of their children’s dental health, they only think of brushing and flossing. However, protecting teeth from damage is an important part of dental health. Many people do not realize that using teeth as tools can severely damage their teeth.  

Using Teeth as Tools

Kids discover early that their teeth can also be used as a tool. Tough-to-open potato chip bags, hanging pieces of string, hard-to-open caps, and even stubborn yogurt containers can quickly be addressed by kids using their teeth. Their teeth are always accessible and convenient. However, teeth should never be used as tools. Unfortunately, once kids begin using their teeth as a tool, it becomes a habit and the practice is hard to stop. 

Potential for Damage

Using teeth as tools can have painful consequences for children. In fact, using teeth in the wrong way as a child can cause issues that will plague them into adulthood.  

• Chips and Cracks: When used incorrectly, teeth can easily become chipped, requiring repair by your kids' dentist
• Grooves: If teeth are frequently used as tools, grooves may develop in the enamel
• Breaks: In severe circumstances, teeth can break when used incorrectly, resulting in pain and/or a costly repair 
• TMJ (Temporal Mandibular Joint): Using teeth as tools can cause them to wear incorrectly and harm the alignment of the jaw. This poor alignment can cause issues with a person’s Temporal Mandibular Joint (TMJ) and result in Temporal Mandibular Dysfunction (TMD), a serious jaw disorder that can result in tightness, pain, and headaches. 

If your children frequently use their teeth as tools, ask your kids’ dentist to look for signs of damage. 

Lead by Example

Children mirror their parents’ behavior. Chances are that if you use your teeth as tools, your children will too. Lead by example and take time to get the correct tool to complete your tasks instead of your teeth.  
For additional information on dental health and how to protect the health of your children’s teeth, come talk to us at Playtime Dental.

Whitening Toothpaste: Does the ADA Seal of Acceptance Matter?

While plenty of toothpaste manufacturers use the term “whitening” quite loosely, many toothpastes don't actually do much to whiten the teeth. So don't venture on out to the supermarket and pick up any old container of toothpaste that is touted for its whitening capabilities and think that it will make your teeth as white as snow.

Thankfully, you don't have to conduct hours of research to figure out which toothpastes are legitimate whiteners. The American Dental Association has done the work for you. Check out the ADA Seal of Acceptance program to find out which toothpastes really have polishing and chemical agents that will make your teeth nice and white. The ADA has invested significant time, effort and resources into studying all of the toothpastes on the market to find out which really remove surface stains.

The ADA's Seal of Acceptance program is the result of two decades worth of monitoring various tooth-whitening products. This market has absolutely exploded in recent years, so it is quite helpful to have a watchdog group oversee all of the activity to determine which toothpastes really live up to their claims. Plenty of toothpastes do not have the ability to gently polish or provide chemical chelation or other non-bleaching actions that whiten teeth. Only opt for those that are recommended by your dentist and carry the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

In a nutshell, the term “whitening” means a process that makes teeth look whiter. Toothpastes use either bleach or non-bleaching agents to accomplish this. Bleach alters the natural color of teeth with peroxide, which removes surface stains as well as stains that have settled deeply into the teeth. Non-bleaching agents cause a chemical or physical action that removes the surface stains along teeth.


Whitening products can be distributed by dentists for use at home, applied by dentists in a dental office or bought over the counter. It is prudent to wait for a one-on-one consultation with your kids' dentist before you choose your children's whitening toothpaste. The same is true for adult patients. A dentist's input is especially valuable to patients who have egregiously dark stains, crowns and fillings. The dentist will advise whether bleaching is appropriate and will also help determine a properly sequenced treatment plan.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is a type of sedative gas often used at the dentist's office. It is more commonly known as "laughing gas" because of the giggles that sometimes result from its use. It is a colorless and odorless gas that is administered through a small mask worn over the nose. Nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen in order to keep the effects of the gas mild and so it can be used for longer durations of time in a safe manner. 
Nitrous oxide is used to help patients relax in the dental chair. After about 30 seconds of breathing the nitrous oxide and oxygen mixture, the sedative and pain-relieving effects will set in.  Peak affects are reached in less than five minutes. One of the major benefits of using nitrous oxide is how quickly it takes effect and wears off. Slight lightheadedness and the giggles are common when a patient is under nitrous oxide sedation. It reduces pain and induces an all-encompassing pleasurable feeling in the body. 

Why Use Nitrous Oxide in Children?

Many adults have fears of going to the dentist and so do most children. Nitrous oxide is a great tool that many kids' dentists will likely recommend. Because of its relaxing and calming effect on patients, nitrous oxide is perfect for children who are afraid of dental procedures. It is also ideal for children with sensitive teeth, and it does increase the pain threshold of a person, little or big. Many children have sensitive gag reflexes that make completing dental procedures difficult, but the use of nitrous oxide usually minimizes the gag reflex. Mixing nitrous oxide with oxygen, which is always done in any medical/dental setting, makes it safe for long periods of time. This can make longer procedures much more bearable for young children. The amount of nitrous oxide the child is receiving can be altered very easily by the dentist if an adjustment is needed. 

What to Expect and How to Prepare

Before a dental visit that requires the use of nitrous oxide sedation, it is best to eat just a light meal, no less than 2 hours before the procedure. During the procedure, the child will remain fully conscious. The effects of nitrous oxide wear off very quickly once 100% oxygen is administered at the end of the procedure. Within a few minutes, the child will have no lasting effects from the gas.  Some kids get so relaxed that they behave like they normally would after they wake from a good night’s sleep.
For further questions about using nitrous oxide for your child’s dentist appointment, call Playtime Dental and we will be more than happy to answer any more questions or concerns you might have!

Composite vs. Amalgam Fillings

So your kids' dentist found a cavity in one of your child's teeth. Thank goodness it's a small cavity, but it does need filled immediately. Should it be filled with silver amalgam or composite filling material? Is there a big difference between the two materials?

Amalgam Fillings

Composed of silver, copper, tin, and liquid mercury, amalgam is a popular cavity filling material due to its strength, ease of use, and ability to withstand repetitive biting forces exerted on molars. Affordable and offering good sealing properties, amalgam can be applied quickly on moist teeth, a feature that makes it an excellent choice when filling cavities in children. Concerns about mercury poisoning from amalgam fillings has also been thoroughly researched, with the FDA concluding that mercury level in amalgam fillings is so low that it poses no threat to a child or an adult's health. 

Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are tooth-colored fillings made from powdered quartz particles and acrylic resin, which are used to fill cavities in all teeth but is an especially popular type of "aesthetic" filling for cavities in front teeth or teeth that are visible when a person smiles. Composite resin is available in a variety of off-white shades that can be matched to your child's enamel color, so the filling is close to invisible. However, composite resin is not as strong as amalgam fillings and is best suited for front teeth, where chewing forces are less robust.

Composite vs Amalgam

While very small to medium-sized cavities on the sides of molars or pre-molars do well with amalgams, large cavities should be filled with composite resin. Although strong, silver fillings tend to break or fall out of large cavities. Moreover, when an amalgam falls out, the tooth has usually experienced some cracking and damage that requires the dentist re-prepare the area before refilling the cavity.

What the American Dental Association Says about Amalgam and Composite Fillings

The ADA reports that amalgam is the best option to fill cavities affecting molars while composite fillings may be used to fill cavities in front and teeth that are visible when smiling or talking. Your kids' dentist will also help you make a decision by recommending which type of filling is more appropriate for your child's cavity after considering the size, depth, and location of the cavity.

Should kids use mouthwash?

Parents should always be on the lookout for ways to help their children maintain and care for their teeth and gums. Sometimes, children want to add things to the oral health regimen like using mouthwash. But how effective is this for children? What are the implications of using it, and when is the appropriate time for children to begin using mouthwash? Flossing and brushing are the best methods for preventing tooth decay, but children may develop an interest in using mouthwash to help their oral hygiene. 

Young children are not advised to use mouthwash because mouthwashes may contain alcohol or fluoride components which can have harmful effects when swallowed in large amounts. It is less likely for older kids and teenagers to ingest the products---unlike younger children, particularly below the age of six. Children between six to twelve years should be supervised by adults if they have to use mouthwash for their daily oral hygiene routine. Those under the age six should avoid using fluoride mouth wash, because they could easily swallow the fluoride components.  Excess fluoride exposure for children whose permanent teeth are not fully developed can result in fluorosis, a harmless but unsightly condition that leaves spots or streaks on the teeth.

Teenagers can use mouthwash as a breath-freshening agent and, in the process, reap the benefits of a fluoride rinse. Children who have braces are good candidates for using fluoride rinses. The rinse protects their teeth from producing acid-producing plaque bacteria that builds up under the brackets. Numerous mouth rinses contain alcohol. If alcohol content is a concern as a parent, mouthwashes with no alcohol content exist and are just as efficient for freshening breath. Children should constantly be reminded that the use of mouth rinse does not replace daily flossing and tooth brushing.  Mouthwash is just one more thing that can be added to help the preservation of a healthy smile.

Another important thing to consider is the manufacturer’s label. Precautions are outlined affirming age recommendations for use of a particular fluoride mouthwash. It is usually advisable to speak to your kid's dentist for accurate and informed utility of any mouth rinse. Regular use of mouthwash provides additional protection against cavities as compared to those of using toothpaste alone. Such precautions will help prevent tooth decay in your children.

Tooth Brushing Basics Parents Should Know

Good dental habits start in our youngest years. Teaching our children how to brush properly gives them a lifelong health skill.  Not only does it help their independence and confidence, it really can help them stay healthier. In this article, we’d like to address some of the most common questions about childhood brushing, such as:

Why should my kids brush their baby teeth, if they are going to fall out anyway?

To some, it may seem counterintuitive to clean something that is temporary and will eventually fall out. However, getting your children to start brushing those baby teeth will help prepare them to care for their permanent adult teeth. Remember, practice makes perfect.  As we get older, it becomes more difficult to establish a new routine, even an important one like brushing teeth. Furthermore, deciduous teeth (a fancy word for baby teeth) can still be subject to decay, plaque, and other bacteria that can lead to pain, infection and/or illness. So brushing those tiny chompers is very important!

When should my child start brushing?

Believe it or not, you can start teaching your little one to brush with his or her very first tooth! Of course, you’ll want to be the one doing the brushing until your children are old enough to hold the brush themselves (around 2 or 3 years old). You’ll also want to supervise them and even brush and floss again after they are done, until they are old enough to handle the entire process of tooth care (using the correct amount of paste, flossing, rinsing, etc.). Your kid's dentist can help you decide when it’s appropriate to let your child do it independently.

How should my child brush?

Brushing isn’t just about swishing a brush around a few times; there really is a right way to do it. The brush should be held so the bristles are at an angle about 45 degrees, to the gums. The proper motion for tooth brushing is small circular motions on each tooth surface.  Make sure you and/or your child does it softly, with short strokes. Scrubbing too hard can actually damage the gums or cheeks. Do not forget to brush all surfaces of the teeth and the tongue, as well. And of course, be sure to thoroughly clean the brush and place it somewhere safe to dry.

How to Care for your Child's Mouth

Caring for your child’s teeth and gums is a very important daily habit that should not be overlooked. In fact, good oral hygiene starts at birth, long before your baby grows his or her first tooth – unless of course your child was born with teeth!  By practicing tooth care basics right from the start, you’re ensuring your child’s overall health by keeping their teeth and gums as healthy as possible.

How to care for a baby’s mouth

Once your baby is just a few days old, it is important to start caring for their gums after feedings. To do this, gently wipe their gums using a clean, wet washcloth or disposable gauze. This will help keep the bacteria and plaque from building up and causing gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) or other oral conditions. When your baby’s teeth do start to come in, you can begin using a baby-sized toothbrush. A light smear of fluoridated toothpaste can be used for children under the age of two.  You know you put the right amount of toothpaste on if you can still see the majority of the tips of the bristles.

How to care for your toddler’s mouth

Manual dexterity takes years to develop, which is why toddlers are not very coordinated with their hands.  Between the ages of 8 to 10 years is when a child finally has sufficient coordination to properly brush their own teeth. Until then, it is recommended that an adult do the brushing. If your child likes to brush his or her own teeth, then follow up and brush the teeth after your child does. A child size toothbrush and pea size amount of fluoridated toothpaste is what should be used to brush your toddler’s teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time. Don’t rush. Take your time.  It’s important that your child brushes a minimum of two minutes because the fluoride in toothpaste needs a full two minutes to help the teeth.

How to brush your child’s teeth

To effectively clean your child’s teeth and gums, hold the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle so that the bristles are aimed where the tooth and the gums meet. This will clean the area where plaque likes to build up. Also, be sure to brush all surfaces of the teeth when doing so. That means brushing the cheek surfaces of the teeth, the tongue surfaces of the teeth, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Don’t forget to brush the tongue as well to help with keeping the breath fresh.  The tongue is like a giant sponge that absorbs everything we eat as well the bacteria that live in the mouth.  Don’t brush too far back on the tongue so you don’t gag your child!
After brushing your child’s teeth and when they begin brushing on their own, be sure that you thoroughly wash the toothbrush after each use and replace the toothbrush every three months. Your child should also be spitting out any excess toothpaste from their mouths and not swallowing the toothpaste.

How to floss your child’s teeth

Once your child has grown enough teeth that touch, it’s time to start flossing. Be gentle by gliding the floss between the teeth until it reaches the gum line. Next, curve it around each tooth and gently rub the floss up and down on the tooth to remove plaque and food.  Flossing in a back and forth, or sawing motion, does not clean between the teeth and can damage the gums

Visit a kid's dentist

It is important for your child to begin visiting the dentist as soon as possible. This will help the child eliminate the fear of the dentist and continually encourage proper oral hygiene.

Dental Care Resources

Finding reliable, affordable kid dentistry is a task that requires gathering information from patients and reviews. A kid's dentist should be someone you can establish a relationship with and make your child feel comfortable.

Good hygiene practices for little children

Good oral care should begin as early as possible to stave off oral issues later on. Here are some tips that should be helpful:

·         Children under the age of two should use a light smear of fluoridated toothpaste.  You will be able to see most of the bristle tips on the brush.

·         Children age two to five, should brush with a pea-sized amount of toothpaste with fluoride. Carefully supervise them brushing so they don’t swallow the excess toothpaste.

·         It is important that your child brush his or her teeth two to three times per day so that way they form the habit of doing so, which will stick with them through life. If you feel your child cannot brush properly, you should still let them brush if they are interested in doing so, but an adult should brush for them when they are done.  Use the recommended amount of toothpaste mentioned above. When the child grows teeth that touch, you should start flossing every day.

Preparing your child for a dental visit

Prevention is the best method of avoiding dental issues later on. Prepare a list of any pain or issues your child experiences with their teeth or gums before you make the visit. Any minor issues should be treated before they become too severe. Below are some questions you can ask your child prior to seeing a dentist:

• Do you have any pain in your mouth or teeth and how bad is it?
• Do your gums bleed?
• Do you get a bad taste in your mouth ever?
• Can you breathe well when you sleep?
• Do you grind your teeth?
• Is your mouth very dry?

Older children may be able to answer these questions, but for younger children, as a parent, you will have to make some of these observations when you help care for your child’s teeth. Finding a trusted dentist that is dedicated to children’s oral hygiene is important to ensure the best experience possible for your child or children!