Pediatric Dentist in Mesa AZ Family Dentist & Kids Tooth Doctor
Pediatric Dentist in Mesa AZ Family Dentist & Kids Tooth Doctor
Fiesta Kids Dental Fun Facts 3
Pediatric Dentistry Mesa Az
Things you should know about your childs dental needs.
Q: Why is my child getting Cavities?
A: Dr. Montoya of Fiesta Kids Dental in Mesa Az replies:
As a pediatric dentist, I see multiple patients in my office that are experiencing cavities. This is very concerning since childhood cavities can lead to pain, difficulty eating and if not treated, can negatively affect the permanent teeth. To appropriately answer the question of why a child is getting cavities, one must first understand what causes cavities to form.
To start, the process of tooth decay is actually called dental caries. A cavity is the hole or cavity that is formed on a tooth affected by dental caries. Dental caries is a very complex process.
There are many types of bacteria that occur naturally in our mouths. Almost 90% of humans have a certain type of bacteria that is responsible for cavities. These specific bacteria live primarily in a sticky film on and around the teeth called dental plaque. These bacteria love to eat sugar. As they eat and digest sugar, the bacteria give off acid. This acid can dissolve the minerals on the hard outer surface of the tooth. Prolonged exposure to these acids can result in a cavity.
If a child has a cavity it is usually from either not removing the bacteria sufficiently from the teeth or from feeding the bacteria excessive amounts of sugar. The bacteria and plaque can be removed by adequate brushing and flossing. Limiting the frequency of sugary foods and drinks can allow the body to neutralize the acids that are formed from caries.
Here are a few tips on preventing cavities:
Never allow a child to sleep with a bottle or sippy cup containing a sugary substance. (This includes milk and diluted juice)
Assist your child with brushing until the age of 6
Start brushing the teeth as soon as the first one appears
Start flossing daily by age 3
Limit sticky sugary substances (fruit snacks, raisins, etc.)
Only allow candy on a limited basis
Take your child to the dentist when they are 12 months old.
Visit your dentist regularly
There are many other components to the caries process and the prevention of cavities such as fluoride and sealants. A dentist will work with each patient and individualize a prevention plan that is best for you and your child.
Q: What is a Pediatric Dentist?
A: Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. The pediatric dentist has an extra two to three years of specialized training and is dedicated to the oral health of children from infancy through adolescence, including those with special health needs. The very young, pre-teens, and teenagers all need different approaches in dealing with their behavior, guiding their dental growth and development, and helping them avoid future dental problems. The pediatric dentist is well qualified to meet these needs.
Just as Family Physicians see and treat children, General dentists do as well. The choice to take a child to a Pediatric dentist vs. a General dentist is a personal one to be made by a parent. Pediatric dentists, like Pediatricians, have specialized training in treating children. Many general dentists are great with children, however they will refer children to a pediatric dentist when they feel it is better for the child to be seen by a specialist. I often let parents know that my number one goal for their child is to cultivate a healthy attitude towards good oral health and to alleviate fears associated with dentistry. Pediatric dentists and General dentists should work closely together to provide quality dental care for children.
Sources: AAPD Reference Manual, www.Colgate.com
Dr. Stephen Montoya is an AAPD recognized Pediatric Dentist at Fiesta Kids Dental, and is located at 1303 S. Longmore, Suite 1, in Mesa, AZ.
Questions can be submitted to him at info@FiestaKidsDental.com or by calling (480) 733-5437. See Wbsite: www.PediatricDentistMesaaz.com
Our tooth doctor for kids will put a smile on yours!
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