Is using a pacifier harmful?

Sucking is a fundamental instinct in babies, and the usefulness of pacifiers has been the subject of much debate over the years. It is believed that the benefits outweigh the potential risks for children under 2 years of age. If it helps soothe your baby, you can use a pacifier. Ensure that you use a broad-based and oval-shaped pacifier that sits outside the mouth. This type of pacifier is recommended for safety and better dental development.

Can teething cause my baby to have a fever?

For many years, people believed that teething causes fever and general illness. Research on teething problems has shown that some children may become irritable, experience increased saliva flow, and sometimes have facial redness. However, for most children, the effects of teething are confined to the teeth and are considered a normal part of development. If your child’s fever worries you, it is unlikely to be caused by teething, and you should consult your doctor.

What do you recommend for teething?

Over the years, various remedies have been suggested, and there are also non-medical things that can be helpful. Teething rings have been found to be beneficial for some babies. Especially when chilled, a teething ring seems to alleviate some discomfort from biting pressure. Another easy alternative is to use a clean, wet towel placed in the freezer, which provides a soft and cold surface for the baby to chew on. For this purpose, pain-relieving tablets and specific local anesthetic medications should be considered as a last resort.

Why do some children experience cavities before the age of 2?

One in every 10 children experiences tooth decay before turning two years old. In some communities, this number can be much higher. The most common cause is putting a baby to bed with a bottle of milk or sugary liquid at night. The content of the bottle sticks to the teeth all night, leading to tooth decay. The same effect can occur with a pacifier dipped in honey or sugar. In rare cases, babies who are breastfed for long periods during the night are also at risk. The tooth decay experienced by these young children follows a typical pattern, usually being prominent near the gumline of the upper front teeth. Treating these children can become a significant issue due to their age, and it may require general anesthesia. Parents should be careful, and as soon as the first tooth erupts, they should brush their child’s teeth twice a day using a rice grain-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste to maintain their oral health. Sometimes, disease or another condition can affect developing teeth, and the quality of enamel may be poor. Such teeth can decay early and more easily. A dental check-up at around one year of age can help detect these problems, allowing the dentist to take additional preventive measures, such as applying fluoride varnish.

What should I do if my baby grinds their teeth at night?

Some children grind their teeth at night. It is a habit called bruxism. In the early years, especially during the time when children are getting new teeth, it is not an unusual occurrence. While we know that this can genuinely worry parents, it rarely requires treatment. Bruxism is generally harmless and only causes significant tooth wear in rare cases. Regular visits to the dentist will allow for the evaluation of the extent of wear and the implementation of preventive measures to limit damage to the teeth.

Are baby teeth important?

For years, the importance of baby teeth was underestimated, and it was only later understood that they have a positive impact on the health of permanent teeth. There are clear reasons why baby teeth are important: chewing, speech, and aesthetics. However, baby teeth do more: they maintain space in the jaws for permanent teeth. If baby teeth are extracted prematurely, space for permanent teeth may be lost. Children with decay in their baby teeth are much more likely to have decay in their permanent teeth. Instilling good habits that prevent tooth decay in baby teeth paves the way for a lifetime of oral health.

Do injuries to baby teeth affect permanent teeth?

Many children experience unfortunate accidents, and various injuries can occur that harm their mouths/teeth. Sometimes, the damage to baby teeth is of minimal concern, and other times it can be severe, causing tooth movement or fracture. More severe injuries can harm permanent teeth that are still developing in the jaws. The extent and type of damage depend on the child’s age since it reflects the developmental stage of the underlying second tooth. The full extent of the injury may not be visible until the permanent tooth erupts. Since the assessment of damage and the implementation of necessary measures to limit problems (usually through X-rays) are possible, consulting a dentist as soon as the injury occurs is always recommended.

2-5 YEARS

Do all baby teeth become visible in the mouth until the age of two?

There is a lot of variation among children. The probable answer is no! Baby teeth start erupting around 6 months of age. By the age of two, there are usually 16 teeth present, and the second molars begin to erupt, but this process may continue until around 30 months. The upper molars are typically the last ones to come in.

What kind of toothbrush do you recommend?

There are many types of toothbrushes available on the market. Some manufacturers specialize in developing toothbrushes for children. Instead of suggesting a specific brand name, we want you to consider what you would like to have in a toothbrush for a child aged 2-5 years. Look for a brush with a short and bulky handle as it will be easier for a young child to handle. The bristles should be soft to prevent any injuries.

How often should teeth be brushed?

One of the most important aspects of a dental hygiene routine is developing good habits. Brushing should be done at least twice a day, in the morning and before bedtime. Of course, it is beneficial to brush more frequently (especially after meals or sweet snacks). The highest protection against cavities occurs with brushing using fluoridated toothpaste under parental supervision.

How much toothpaste is safe for my child to use?

As mentioned earlier, children aged 0-3 years should use a small amount of fluoridated toothpaste equivalent to the size of a rice grain, twice a day. Children aged 3-6 years should use a pea-sized amount. This amount is safe even if swallowed, but it is a good idea to teach your child to spit out excess toothpaste. Rinsing is NOT necessary as the highest protection against cavities is achieved through brushing and spitting.

What should I do if my child doesn’t like the taste of toothpaste?

Brushing is important as it helps to remove food debris around teeth and gums. However, toothpaste with 1000 ppm fluoride strengthens the outer layer of the teeth (enamel), making them more resistant to decay. Without fluoride toothpaste, this benefit is lost. Different brands have different flavors of toothpaste. You can try several toothpaste options to find the one your child likes. This way, you will help them get used to their brushing routine. Always ensure you are using the correct amount of toothpaste: a rice grain-sized amount for children aged 0-3 and a pea-sized amount for children aged 3-6.

What do you recommend to prevent my child from thumb-sucking?

Children between the ages of 2 and 5 usually develop social skills that will gradually help them quit the habit of thumb-sucking. Aggressive treatment is not recommended before this age. It makes sense to occasionally remind the child to stop sucking their thumb and always try to be positive. Encourage and praise the child for not sucking, and celebrate their adult behaviors.

Parents sometimes want to solve the habit problem too early. About half of thumb-sucking children will naturally stop this habit around the age of three. Most of the remaining ones will stop at the age of six. Loose primary teeth and peer pressure will lead many children to quit the habit at this age. If your child continues after the age of six, consulting your dentist will allow for a closer evaluation and exploring other ways to stop the habit.

What are the black spots on my child’s teeth?

Black spot is a result of the combination of saliva, bacteria, and food in the mouth. Other types of spots can also be seen on the teeth. Green, orange, and gray spots are the most common ones. These spots can indicate poor hygiene and may have early signs of tooth decay underneath. Professional cleaning should initially remove the spot, and supervised periodic brushing will help control it.

Should I use dental floss for my child’s teeth?

Dental floss cleans the areas between teeth that are inaccessible to a toothbrush. For some children, it is an important addition to their cleaning routine. There may be gaps between baby teeth or they may be very close to each other. If they are spaced, a toothbrush can reach the areas between the teeth, eliminating the need for dental floss. If a child’s teeth are not spaced, dental floss should be used. It cannot be expected for children at this age to use dental floss on their own. Parents need to assist them. We recommend discussing the necessity of using dental floss with your dentist.

Does my child need fluoride application at the dentist?

The main factor in this decision is your child’s risk of developing cavities. During your dental appointment, the dentist will evaluate the fluoride your child receives from sources such as water, toothpaste, and other sources. They will also assess your child’s diet, eating habits, and how well and often they use dental floss. This information, along with the condition of your child’s teeth (shape, spacing, and strength) and gum health, allows the dentist to determine if your child is at risk of developing cavities in the near future. Children who have recently had cavities are also at higher risk for developing more cavities. If your child is at risk due to any of the reasons mentioned above, they will definitely benefit from the additional protection of fluoride application during the dental visit.

Does my child need to have X-rays taken?

The main factors in this decision are a child’s history of tooth decay or the risk of developing cavities. If a child has had cavities recently or if there are no gaps to directly examine between the teeth, the dentist may recommend taking X-rays every six months. There are other factors that can influence the decision to take X-rays as well. If a child has had fillings in the past, the dentist may need to take X-rays to monitor them. Family history can also have an impact, especially if there are multiple cavities in other children in the family. Nowadays, most dentists take X-rays “based on individual need” rather than routinely. This means they examine the mouth and the child’s history before making the decision to take X-rays for the individual patient.

If primary teeth are extracted early, can there be space loss in the dental arch?

Yes, there can be space loss in the dental arch if teeth are extracted early. As a result, permanent teeth in a mouth that could have had a good and straight tooth set can become crooked. The third reason for filling primary teeth is to reduce the bacteria (germs) that cause tooth decay in the mouth. These bacteria multiply in open spaces where food debris is difficult to clean. Eventually, decay continues in other teeth and even when permanent teeth come in.

I’m very worried about my child’s dental treatment visit, is there anything I can do to help?

We all want a dental visit to be a positive experience. It doesn’t make much sense to save the tooth but lose the child! Research suggests that anxious parents can transmit their anxiety to their children. Therefore, try to remain calm and positive. Accept the visit as a routine part of life and healthcare. There are children’s books and websites available that can be used to explain the procedures. They can be helpful. You can also ask your friends and other family members about pediatric dental practices or dentists who specialize in treating children. Other children in the dental office and a dental team that eagerly looks forward to treating children can be very helpful to your child.

Why do my child’s gums bleed when brushing around their upper teeth?

The most common cause of gum bleeding is gum inflammation, which is an infection and/or swelling of the gums. This occurs when plaque remains on the gums for an extended period due to inadequate or improper brushing. Some parents and children avoid brushing because the gums bleed. This is a mistake as it worsens the problem. Proper and gentle brushing of the gums will remove plaque build-up and stop the bleeding. However, regular and thorough brushing for 7-10 days may be necessary to see complete improvement.

There can be other possible reasons for gum bleeding while brushing. One reason could be dehydration or dry mouth caused by mouth breathing. Mouth breathing occurs when children have difficulty breathing through the nose due to issues such as allergies, enlarged adenoids, or tonsils. Some children have a short upper lip, which prevents their lips from closing comfortably at night. The mouth should be moist. Bleeding gums are not healthy. Orthodontic correction may be needed to align the teeth for the lips to close comfortably and keep the mouth moist.

In rare cases, gum bleeding can be associated with medical conditions. Therefore, if there is no improvement in the gums after regular brushing, consult your dentist.

Is it important that my child’s primary tooth has been extracted?

Yes, especially if the back teeth are lost early, it can cause problems later on. It usually does not pose a problem for the front teeth. Primary teeth have a specific size and occupy a specific place in the jaw. If a primary tooth is extracted early, the nearby teeth can drift into the space left by the missing tooth. This means there may not be enough space for the permanent tooth that will replace the lost tooth in the future. The result can affect the way the teeth come together.

What is a space maintainer?

A space maintainer is an appliance that preserves the space created by the early loss of a tooth. There are two general types of space maintainers. Fixed space maintainers are attached to the teeth using a dental adhesive. Removable space maintainers, on the other hand, can be taken out and cleaned. The design of the space maintainer depends on the missing teeth, existing teeth, and the child’s dental development.

6-10 YEARS

When will my child’s permanent teeth start to erupt?

The eruption of permanent teeth occurs around 6 years +/- 6 months. Except for wisdom teeth, the last of the permanent teeth usually erupts around 12 years of age. Tooth eruption can vary. Girls tend to have earlier tooth eruption compared to boys. Delayed tooth eruption can indicate localized problems, so it’s a good reason to see your dentist regularly for monitoring the development.

My child lost their baby teeth a few months ago, and the new teeth haven’t come in yet. Should I be worried?

Sometimes when children lose a baby tooth, the new tooth erupts immediately, and you can see the tooth coming in. Other times, it can take months for them to start erupting. This is influenced by various factors such as the amount of space available for the tooth to grow, the position of the tooth, and even family characteristics. When your child loses their first tooth, ask your dentist about this issue. Your dentist can review your child’s X-rays and provide guidance on what to expect and make you aware of any potential problems.

How can I prevent decay when my child’s permanent teeth start to come in?

As children start school, they also begin to increase their independence in daily habits and food choices both inside and outside the home. To ensure your child continues to have healthy teeth and body:

• Continue supervising brushing with fluoridated toothpaste twice a day. Children who are supervised in brushing their teeth develop fewer cavities compared to those who brush on their own. As their bodies and salivary abilities grow, the amount of fluoridated toothpaste becomes less critical. You can allow them to be a bit independent, but supervision should be maintained to ensure plaque removal from all teeth. Disclosing tablets or rinses that highlight areas with hard-to-reach plaque are very helpful.
• Discuss with your child about good food and drink options they can consume at school. Plain milk and water should always be emphasized as the best beverage choices. Discourage the routine consumption of sugary drinks (sodas, chocolate milk, fruit juices, or energy drinks) as they increase the risk of tooth decay and excessive weight gain.
• Encourage your children to minimize snacking between meals as they grow older and teach them to choose fresh fruits and vegetables instead of processed snacks made with refined carbohydrates (such as chips).

When can my child start using dental floss on their own?

Using dental floss can be challenging. Children acquire this skill at different rates. Studies conducted with children aged 7-8 years showed that the majority of children do not have the dexterity to use dental floss at that age. As a result, it is recommended to introduce dental floss to children around 8 to 10 years old when they have better hand coordination. Start by teaching them to use dental floss on their front teeth. Later, as they become proficient, introduce them to using dental floss on the back teeth. Alternatively, even young children can use floss picks with handles to facilitate independent application and provide easier access for parental assistance. Using the correct dental floss technique is important, and your dentist can help you learn it.

Why are my child’s new front teeth more yellow than their baby teeth?

Newly erupted permanent teeth have larger pulp chambers, and their enamel is more transparent compared to the opaque blue-white enamel of baby teeth. This gives them a more yellowish appearance in contrast. As the tooth further develops, the color tends to become lighter and more harmonious with the surrounding teeth. As the permanent teeth grow side by side, their colors also become more uniform and lighter. If you want your child’s teeth to appear whiter, gently brushing them with fluoridated toothpaste twice a day.

What can I do for my child who sucks their thumb?

Most experts consider around the age of 6, when permanent teeth start to erupt, as an appropriate age to treat the habit of thumb sucking. We would like to see the habit discontinued as it can push the permanent teeth out of alignment. Thumb sucking can also be associated with speech difficulties, social stresses, and other habits. These habits are typically treated with psychologically based programs and/or intraoral appliances. Correcting the habit is sometimes not easy. Your dentist should be able to assess your child’s individual situation and recommend the most suitable method.

Why does my child have two rows of teeth?

The most common area where this occurs is in the lower front teeth region. It is seen in about 30% of children. The appearance of two rows of teeth is caused by the permanent teeth coming in behind the baby teeth. This usually results from a discrepancy between the size of the new teeth and the space available for them to grow. It is important to consult your dentist. A radiograph may be needed to determine how much of the root of the baby tooth is left. Sometimes the baby teeth need to be extracted, but in most cases, if the baby teeth are already loose, they will fall out on their own within a few weeks.

Why is there a wide gap between my child’s new front teeth?

Sometimes, when the two upper front teeth erupt, a noticeable gap can be observed between them. This gap is called a diastema. It is a normal part of jaw development. As more teeth come in, the gap tends to close. It usually closes by the time the child approaches adolescence. In most cases, the presence of a diastema before the age of 12 is usually an indication that there will be enough space for the permanent teeth to grow properly. However, there can be other reasons for a gap between the front teeth, and a radiographic examination of the area by your dentist may be required to identify any potential issues.

Do many children have missing teeth?

Approximately 1 in 20 individuals have differences in tooth count. Some may have extra teeth, while others may have missing teeth. Missing teeth are more commonly observed in permanent teeth compared to baby teeth. Some individuals may have only one or two missing teeth, and this may not have a distinct cause or could be something that other family members also have. Some individuals may have a significant number of missing teeth, which could be related to a systemic condition. Your dentist can help you develop a plan to manage the gaps for children to maintain proper function, and they can coordinate with an orthodontist for long-term treatment and space management.

Why do children need dental sealants?

The risk of tooth decay is higher when teeth first erupt. The most common teeth that are filled are the permanent molars, which erupt around the age of 6 and typically have deep grooves on the chewing surfaces. Brushing alone is often not sufficient to clean these grooves effectively, so over the years, most of these new molars will develop tooth decay. A dental sealant is a protective, hard coating that fills the deep grooves on the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, preventing food from getting trapped inside. The smooth surface also makes it easier to clean the tooth and prevents decay! Sealants are typically placed on permanent teeth, but if children are at risk of developing new cavities on the chewing surfaces of their baby molars, they can also be applied to baby teeth.

Does my child need a mouthguard for sports?

Mouthguards help reduce the risk of mouth and dental injuries and are commonly used in many sports where the likelihood of injury is present. Mouthguards can be custom-made from impressions of your child’s teeth or purchased commercially. Custom-fitted mouthguards provide superior fit, allowing for easier speech while wearing the guard and providing better protection. However, for children in the 6-9 age group whose teeth are constantly shedding and being replaced, it may be more practical to purchase commercial mouthguards. Custom mouthguards can be transitioned to when all permanent teeth are in place. It’s also important to note that mouthguards can be made for children wearing braces and are highly recommended.

If a child has bad baby teeth, will their permanent teeth also be bad?

Not necessarily! The requirements for tooth decay are teeth, oral bacteria, and sugary foods. If there is an abundance of bacteria, regular consumption of sugary foods, and lack of proper brushing, tooth decay will inevitably occur. Unfortunately, bad habits like frequent consumption of sugary foods and drinks and inadequate brushing often persist for a long time and, after causing decay in baby teeth, can lead to decay in permanent teeth as they erupt. Children with tooth decay in their baby teeth are much more likely to have decay in their permanent teeth. However, a lifestyle change that includes limiting sugar, adopting a nutritious diet, brushing correctly with fluoride toothpaste twice a day, and regular dental visits can completely change the oral environment and give the new teeth a chance to grow in a healthy manner. Therefore, bad permanent teeth don’t necessarily have to follow bad baby teeth.

Preparation Before the Appointment

• Play games at home where your child takes on the roles of a dentist, parent, and patient. You can have them clean the teeth of their dolls or teddy bears using a toothbrush.
• Show your child how to count their teeth using a mirror and demonstrate how the dentist will examine their teeth.
• Avoid using negative words like ‘needle’ or ‘pain’. Instead, choose positive words like ‘healthy’ and ‘strong teeth’ in your explanations.
• If your child has a favorite toy, you can bring it to the appointment. Holding a familiar object can make them feel more secure and comfortable.
• Read books to your child about dental visits and engage in dialogue about the importance of having healthy teeth through these books.
• Also, remind your child that you, as a parent, also visit the dentist.
• Remember that fears, including fear of the dentist, can be passed from the family to the child, so it’s important to remain positive.
• During the first visit, it’s helpful for the parent to remain calm to ensure a positive experience.

Age 10 and Above

How can I prevent my child’s teeth from decaying?

As teenagers progress to higher grades at school, they may seek to expand their independence through daily habits and food choices. Often, they can even purchase their own food independently. This can be a challenging time to instill good habits for maintaining overall health. To help your young child maintain healthy teeth and body: ● Remind them of the connection between good brushing habits and health, fresh breath, and a nice appearance. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, using dental floss, and using fluoride mouthwash are still the best measures to prevent decay. Offer your child different options and encourage them to use them positively. ● Teenagers tend to gravitate toward soft drinks or energy drinks. While many people know that soft drinks are not a good source of nutrition, many are convinced that energy drinks are a healthier choice. However, these energy drinks often contain as much sweetener as soft drinks, leading to tooth decay and obesity. Remind your child regularly about the dangers of consuming sugary drinks. Drinking water is always the best option. ● Since teenagers can purchase their own snacks, remind them that frequent snacking on chips or sweets not only leads to decay but can also cause weight gain. Obesity is prevalent in our society, and maintaining good nutrition is crucial for staying healthy.

Does my child still need fluoride application at the dentist?

As children grow and approach adolescence, their eating, drinking, and brushing habits change, and their risk of developing decay increases. During routine dental check-ups, your dentist assesses the risk of decay and may recommend topical fluoride application when necessary. As a general rule, if your child is not brushing their teeth twice a day or not brushing well enough, snacking frequency is high, new decay has occurred in the past two years, they are undergoing orthodontic treatment, or they are using medication that causes dry mouth, fluoride application is necessary.

Why are the gums around my child’s lower teeth red?

The gums around the lower teeth may appear red and can easily bleed while brushing. The main reason for this is inadequate cleaning of the teeth and gum line. If the teeth are not properly aligned, cleaning them can be more challenging. Both the gums and teeth should be brushed regularly, at least twice a day, with fluoride toothpaste. Dental floss can help remove plaque from the areas between teeth where the brush cannot reach. Parents and children can recognize when the gums become healthier because bleeding decreases, and the gums become pink and firm. A special condition that should be mentioned is pubertal gingivitis. This can persist even if the mouth appears well-cleaned. It arises from hormonal changes occurring during adolescence. It is usually a transitional phase, and with consistent proper hygiene, the gums eventually return to a healthy pink color.

Can my child use mouthwash regularly?

Many young people start using mouthwash regularly because they are more concerned with their personal hygiene. However, the use of mouthwash should not replace regular and proper brushing with fluoride toothpaste, which includes brushing the tongue. When using mouthwash, it is good to use a fluoride or plaque-preventing mouthwash that has proven benefits.

When can my child get braces?

Children develop at different rates, so the timing of orthodontic treatment will vary. Additionally, the type of treatment will determine when orthodontic treatment will begin, which depends on the child’s individual needs and expected cooperation for treatment. Orthodontic treatment can be done during the early stage when both primary and permanent teeth are present. Sometimes, it may be the only treatment needed or the initial part of a longer treatment. Fixed orthodontics generally begins later (after the age of 10) with the eruption of permanent teeth.

What is a panoramic (OPG) X-ray?

A panoramic X-ray is a dental X-ray taken from outside the mouth using a machine that rotates around the head. This type of X-ray provides the dentist with a complete view of the teeth and jaws. Its primary use for children is to examine developing teeth. The dentist can see the presence or absence of teeth without having to take several X-rays inside the mouth. It is a good way to screen for various issues but is not suitable for diagnosing tooth decay.

During the Appointment

In general, it is beneficial for parents not to be present in the treatment room as it helps the child to be more positive, cooperative, and calm during the treatment. When left alone, the child can focus better on the instructions given by the dentist and dental assistant. The involvement of parents during the treatment can confuse the child and blur the authority figure.

• If it is decided for parents to be present in the treatment room due to various reasons, following the guidelines below can help create a positive experience: Allow the dentist to prepare the child.
• Explain what will happen during the appointment by the dentist.
• If the child asks questions before the appointment, providing explanations using the terminology in the table below can be supportive for the treatment.
• These terms do not mean lying to or deceiving the child. They are proven narratives used by pediatric dentists for years to prevent fear and increase cooperation.
• Be a silent observer to enhance focus and provide support through physical touch to the child during the dentist’s communication.
• Children tend to listen more to their parents than the dentist and dental assistant. Being silent as a parent can facilitate the child’s direction by the dentist.
• Parents should also be prepared for being asked to leave the room to improve communication and cooperation.
• Children may resort to role-playing to seek support from their parents and gain a sense of control. To manage this unproductive situation, parents may be asked to leave the room for a “short tour.”
• Even in the absence of parents, the dentist continues to support the child.