First Dental Appointments At Orlando Kids Dentistry

www.kidsorlandodentistry.com | 407-502-0202

It is recommended for your child to have their first dental appointment when their first tooth comes in or by their first birthday. Pediatric dental cleanings are an important part of a lasting healthy smile.

Pediatric dental cleanings at Kid’s Orlando Dentistry are fun with our knowledgeable and trained pediatric dental staff. Your child’s first visit should be a positive experience and our staff is here to make every effort it is!

Our pediatric dentists will examine your child’s bite for possible orthodontic recommendations and make sure your child is cavity free. If your child should need further pediatric dental treatment one of our skilled dental staff team members will provide the caregiver with information about the recommended treatment.

At Kid’s Orlando Dentistry, we understand that keeping children cavity free can be simple. To achieve this goal it is important to teaching children how to brush and floss their teeth correctly from an early age. Parents must also be shown how to help their children, not just with the brushing, but also by providing healthy foods that are less likely to cause dental decay. In addition, the pediatric dentists at Your Downtown Dentistry recommend getting prophylactic teeth cleaning for children at least twice a year to make sure that food deposits and plaque buildup on the child’s teeth are removed efficiently. With a good cleaning in the office and healthy oral habits at home, your children will have a beautiful, healthy smile.

What takes place at the cleaning appointment?

At the prophylaxis appointment, the teeth are cleaned using an electric prophy brush and special toothpaste. For older children, an ultra sonic scaler is used to remove calculus. Sometimes hand instruments are used to get to hard to reach places. During the cleaning appointment, fluoride treatment can also be done to strengthen the enamel of the child’s teeth. If a fluoride varnish is used, children can eat right away, but are advised to stay away from hot foods or carbonated drinks, like soda. If a fluoride foam is used, children are asked not to eat or drink for at least thirty minutes. Although the chewing surfaces may feel sticky, it is important not to brush off the fluoride. The longer the fluoride is on the teeth, the more effective it will be in strengthening the teeth.

Why bring your child in regularly for teeth cleaning appointments?

Bringing your child in for dental cleanings at least twice a year is a great preventive measure that can keep oral disease at bay. The dentist will be able to detect early signs of problems that could lead to more serious and more expensive treatments in the future.

www.kidsorlandodentistry.com | 407-502-0202 | www.facebook.com/KidsOrlandoDentistry | plus.google.com/+Kidsorlandodentistry

Kids Orlando Dentistry & Preventing Cavities

www.kidsorlandodentistry.com | 407-502-0202

The Trouble With Juice, Preventing Infant Cavities

When we think of healthy alternatives to soda and other sugary drinks, its often common to look to fruit juice as a healthy alternative. Generally high in essential vitamins, fruit juice can be a much better choice than other beverages. Unfortunately, it can also be one of the worst offenders. The sugars and citric acid found in most fruit juices cause double trouble for teeth, and can lead to tooth decay at an early age.

A lot more sugar than you think.

Apple juice can contain as much as 10 tsp. of sugar. That’s exactly the same amount as found in the leading cola. Grape juice contains even more, with nearly 15tsp. Further, the citric acid in fruit juice can be tough on enamel, eating away at the first line of defense for healthy teeth.

Moderation…and water.

Consuming fruit juice isn’t in and of itself bad. Instead, the real problem is that we often simply consume too much juice or that we don’t rinse or brush afterwards. Children are especially at risk when juice is given too frequently. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have no more than 6 to 8 ounces of citrus fruit juice per day. Also, it’s important to limit your children’s consumption of juice to once a day, preferably with a meal, instead of spread out through the day, such as in a sippy cup. For the juice-lover in the family, two servings of watered down juice is a great way to satisfy a craving!

www.kidsorlandodentistry.com | 407-502-0202 | www.facebook.com/KidsOrlandoDentistry | plus.google.com/+Kidsorlandodentistry

Children's Sealants At Kids Orlando Dentistry

www.kidsorlandodentistry.com | 407-502-0202

Did you know that the most common chronic disease of children and teens is tooth decay? Even worse, the CDC reports that nearly 20% of children’s cavities are left untreated. What may be even more surprising is that nearly all cavities are 100% preventable. In fact, simply by following these 6 steps, you could help your child enter adulthood without suffering from even a single cavity.

Take advantage of sealants or composite fillings.

Sealants are the most effective, yet most underutilized method of preventing cavities. Dental sealants involve a temporary, thin plastic coating that is “painted” on the chewing surfaces of teeth which creates a barrier where food often gets trapped. Composite fillings are sometimes used as an alternative to sealants, but in the same way by filling deep crevices. The relatively low cost of sealants makes them an obvious choice when compared with the discomfort and higher costs of treating a cavity.

Limit foods that tend to stick to teeth.

Sticky candies like caramel and taffy often stay around for a long time after kids eat them. But candy isn’t the only food which needs to be limited. Crackers, potato chips and other starchy foods also tend to get stuck in the nooks and crannies of tooth surfaces. Without proper brushing, these foods provide sugar to bacteria that feed on it and multiply and attack enamel. For this reason, these foods should be limited and occasional. Regular brushing and flossing is essential when these foods are consumed.

Begin good dental habits early.

Oral care can begin even before teeth appear. Using a soft cloth to clean your baby’s gums can limit bacteria and protect emerging teeth. Small children should get help with brushing.

Model good dental habits.

One of the most effective ways you can ensure that your children stay cavity free is by modeling good dental habits in front of them. Do they see you brush? Are you flossing daily? Modeling good behaviors will teach your children first hand that you value your own oral health and theirs.

www.kidsorlandodentistry.com | 407-502-0202 | www.facebook.com/KidsOrlandoDentistry | plus.google.com/+Kidsorlandodentistry

Important: Essential Tips to Manage a Dental Emergency

Important: Essential Tips to Manage a Dental Emergency

By definition an emergency is generally unexpected, which means you didn’t plan on an accident occurring (of course!)  But you can prepare for common dental emergencies in case they do happen.  Knowing what to do can sometimes be the difference in saving or losing a tooth.  Here are a few essential tips to read over and understand…before you need them.

Establish a dental home.

When a dental emergency occurs, it’s essential to get prompt treatment.  Of course, the first (and best) step is to have an established dental home.  Whether an injury happens on the playground, in school or at home, having a dental home and maintaining regular dental check-ups and cleanings is the first and best way to be prepared.  Not only will you have an existing relationship already established, but you will also have someone to call who can provide guidance, care and support.

Like all emergencies, dental emergencies appear out of nowhere and demand immediate attention. Knowing what to do when an emergency arises is key to having a positive outcome and preventing a bad situation from getting worse. Just as we spend time learning first aid procedures for bodily emergencies, making a special effort to focus on handling dental emergencies means that you are prepared to take care of any situation, no matter what.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), here are a few best practices for the following scenarios:

-If a baby tooth is knocked out:
Contact the dentist ASAP.

-If a permanent tooth is knocked out:
Find and carefully rinse the tooth in cool water. Do not use soap or scrub the tooth. Simply rinse it in cool water. Replace the tooth in the socket, if possible, and hold it in place with a clean piece of gauze or a washcloth.  If putting the tooth back in the socket isn’t an option, place the tooth in a clean cup with milk, saliva, or water. Contact the dentist immediately.  Prompt treatment is required to potentially save the tooth.

-If a tooth is chipped or damaged:
Contact the dentist immediately. Find any tooth fragments. Rinse in cool water and place in a clean cup with milk, saliva, or water and take them with you to the dentist. Prompt treatment is critical for preventing infection and avoiding potential complications. If there is any injury to the mouth, treat with cold compresses to decrease swelling.

If tooth loss is the result of a more severe or complicated injury, call for emergency services to insure that proper care is given to the entire injury. Call the dentist en route to the hospital or immediately upon arrival.

An emergency situation is no time to try to come up with a plan of action. Instead, it’s best to be prepared well in advance of any unforeseen injuries. Maintaining regular six month check-ups can help lay the groundwork for handling potential emergency situations when you don’t have time to think about what to do next.

www.kidsorlandodentistry.com | 407-502-0202 | www.facebook.com/KidsOrlandoDentistry | plus.google.com/+Kidsorlandodentistry

Outpatient General Anesthesia

Outpatient General Anesthesia is recommended for apprehensive children, very young children, and children with special needs that do not work well under conscious sedation or I.V. sedation. General anesthesia renders your child completely asleep. This would be the same as if he/she was having their tonsils removed or having a hernia repaired. Outpatient General Anesthesia is performed in a hospital or outpatient setting only. While the assumed risks are greater than that of other treatment options, the benefits of this treatment greatly outweigh the risks. Most pediatric medical literature places the risk of a serious reaction in the range of 1 in 25,000 to 1 in 200,000, far better than the assumed risk of driving a car. If this is not chosen, your child risks having multiple appointments, potential for physical restraint to complete treatment, and possible emotional and/or physical injury to your child in order to complete their dental treatment. The risks of NO treatment include tooth pain, infection, swelling, the spread of new decay, damage to their developing adult teeth and possible life threatening hospitalization from a dental infection.

Prior to your appointment:

Please notify us of any change in your child’s health. Do not bring your child for treatment with a fever, ear infection or cold. Should your child become ill, contact us to see if it is necessary to postpone the appointment.
Please inform the doctor of any prescriptions that your child is currently taking and any drug reactions and/or change in medical history.
Please dress your child in loose fitting, comfortable clothing.
Your child should not have milk or solid food after midnight prior to the scheduled procedure, and ONLY clear liquids like water, apple juice, or Gatorade for up to 6 hours prior to the appointment.
The child’s parent or legal guardian must remain at the hospital or surgical site waiting room during the complete procedure.

After the appointment:

Your child will be drowsy and will need to be monitored very closely. Keep your child away from areas of potential harm.
If your child wants to sleep, place them on their side with their chin up. Wake your child every hour and encourage them to have something to drink in order to prevent dehydration. At first it is best to give your child sips of clear liquids to prevent nausea.
Your child's first meal should be light and easily digestible.
If your child vomits, help them bend over and turn their head to the side to insure that they do not inhale the vomit.
Prior to leaving the hospital/outpatient center, you will be given a detailed list of "Post-Op Instructions" and an emergency contact number if needed.

www.kidsorlandodentistry.com | 407-502-0202 | www.facebook.com/KidsOrlandoDentistry | plus.google.com/+Kidsorlandodentistry

Pediatric Hospital Dentistry At Orlando Kids Dentistry

www.kidsorlandodentistry.com | 407-502-0202

If your child cannot receive dental care in a traditional dental office, our practice offers gentle and effective dental care to infants, children, and adolescents in the nurturing environment of our local hospital. As one of the only pediatric dentists in the area to offer this unique service, our pediatric dentist has the distinctive ability to understand the specific needs of children who need dental care but cannot cooperate for safe dental treatment. Through hospital dentistry, you can eliminate the struggles and trauma that can lead to a lifetime fear of dental treatment for your child.

Special needs children are especially susceptible to dental problems specifically because many have difficulty practicing healthy dental and dietary habits at home. Often, special needs individuals require a unique soft diet and/or sugary medication that can be detrimental to maintaining dental health. At Orlando Kids Dentistry we feel it is extremely important to assure that children, adolescents and young adults with special challenges have full access to all dental health services, inclusive of orthodontics when indicated. We have found that many special needs children benefit significantly from orthodontic devices helping them improve not only their teeth and facial balance, but breathing as well, guaranteeing a good night sleep and improved health.

Is hospital dentistry right for my child?

Pediatric hospital dentistry services are ideal for:

-Physically, emotionally, or developmentally challenged children who are unable to hold still for dental treatment
-Children that have a severe gag reflex
-Children with complex medical conditions that make it unsafe to receive dental care in an office situation
-Children who have allergies to local anesthetics or experience difficulty achieving numbness
-Children who need oral surgery or other dental treatment that would be difficult for the child to tolerate while awake

For these situations, the use of general anesthesia may be the best option for your family.

Preventative dentistry is also important. At Orlando Kids Dentistry, our professionals are experienced in caring for special needs children as they often require more care and comfort. Pediatric dentists receive specialized education, beyond that of dental school, which involves training to care for patients with special needs.

www.kidsorlandodentistry.com | 407-502-0202 | www.facebook.com/KidsOrlandoDentistry | plus.google.com/+Kidsorlandodentistry

Professional Fluoride Treatment From Kids Orlando Dentistry

www.kidsorlandodentistry.com | 407-502-0202

PROFESSIONAL FLUORIDE TREATMENT IN ORLANDO, FL
Fluoride is a mineral found naturally in many foods and water. It is also found in most toothpastes, mouth rinses, and professional dental treatments. Fluoride is recommended by dentists due to its effectiveness in strengthening teeth and preventing cavities in both children and adults. When consumed or applied during dental treatment, fluoride makes the outermost layer of the teeth (enamel) more resistant to acid attacks and helps destroy the bacteria that causes cavities. Visit Orlando Kid’s Dentistry for a topical fluoride treatment.

HOW DOES FLUORIDE PROTECT TEETH?
Fluoride plays a very important role in the growth and development of teeth. Even before the teeth emerge during infancy, fluoride can be found in the body from foods, beverages, and dietary supplements. After the teeth have erupted, fluoride continues to benefit the teeth by reversing the early symptoms of tooth decay and rebuilding weakened tooth enamel. Additional protection is provided to the tooth surfaces through daily tooth brushing, as most modern toothpastes containing fluoride.

WHAT ARE TOPICAL FLUORIDE TREATMENTS?
Children and adults who are susceptible to tooth decay may benefit from a topical fluoride treatment. This type of professional dental treatment is available during your dental visit in the form of a foam, gel, or rinse. The fluoride product can be applied to the tooth surfaces by inserting a mouth guard filled with a foam or gel for several minutes. Fluoride varnish can also be painted onto the tooth surface.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM FLUORIDE?
Fluoride treatment is recommended for infants and children between 6 months and 16 years of age, as this is the time when the baby teeth and permanent teeth emerge. Other high risk groups can also benefit from fluoride treatments, including individuals who have poor oral hygiene, a history of tooth decay, minimal access to a dentist, a diet high in sugars, braces, or frequent snacking habits.

It’s critical to ensure that you get enough fluoride from an early age to prevent the development of cavities. For more information about fluoride treatments or to schedule a procedure with our experienced dentist, contact our Orlando Kid’s Dentistry office today 407-502-0202.

www.kidsorlandodentistry.com | 407-502-0202 | www.facebook.com/KidsOrlandoDentistry | plus.google.com/+Kidsorlandodentistry