Question: My son is 18 months of age, and I have been told he should see a dentist for a regular dental checkup. However, I wonder if he can go to our family dentist or if he has to see a pediatric dentist. I looked into my current dental insurance plan, and I will receive fewer benefits by going to a specialist, and a pediatric dentist is considered a specialist. I don’t want to pay more if it is not necessary.

Answer: It’s many parents’ question: should children see a pediatric dentist or a family dentist? Children, especially toddlers, have unique dental needs that are different from those of adults. A pediatric dentist with specialized training and expertise is best equipped to understand and cater to these differences. They are well-versed in the developmental stages of children’s teeth and can provide the most appropriate care for young patients.

However, if cost concerns you, it’s worth discussing with your family dentist to see if they can accommodate your children. Some family dentists are equipped to provide services for young children, while others may focus on treating older children. For instance, consider a scenario where a family dentist might offer preventive care, such as fluoride treatments and dental sealants, for a three-year-old but may refer more complex cases to a pediatric dentist. It’s essential to have open communication with your dentist to ensure that your children receive the best possible care within your means. Remember, this decision is crucial for your child’s dental health.

Dental Insurance Coverage for Specialist Services

Dental insurance plans generally offer lower benefits for specialist services due to the higher cost associated with specialized care. Specialists such as pediatric dentists have undergone additional training and expertise in treating specific dental needs, which often results in higher service fees. For example, a pediatric dentist may have specialized equipment and training to cater to the unique needs of children, which can contribute to the overall higher cost of their services than a general family dentist. As a result, dental insurance plans may provide lower coverage for specialist services to manage the increased cost of specialized care.

If you have any questions regarding dental insurance or the dental insurance plans we provide, please don’t hesitate to contact our member services team at 310-534-3444. Our representatives are available Monday to Friday from 8 am to 4 pm. We are dedicated to providing assistance and answering any queries you may have. You can also visit BabyDental.com for more information about our dental insurance plans and services.

Welcome to Babydental.com, your go-to resource for infant and children’s oral health. Babydental.com is not just a website but a supportive guide dedicated to providing valuable information on dental care for babies and children. We understand the importance of starting oral care early and are here to guide you through the process from birth to 12 months of age. Whether you are looking for tips on oral hygiene or information on dental insurance for your little one, Babydental.com has got you covered. Also, if you have any questions or need further assistance, please get in touch with us at 310-534-3444. We are committed to promoting good oral health for your child and providing the support and resources you need.

Infant and Children’s Oral Health – From Birth to 6 Months of Age:

Many first-time parents need clarification about properly caring for their infant’s oral health. Taking care of your child’s oral health from birth is not just crucial, but a responsibility that can prevent dental issues later. By practicing healthy habits, you can minimize the risk of tooth decay in infants and children. Here are some tips to help you manage your infant’s oral health.

• Gently clean your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeding: It’s important to clean your baby’s gums with a wet cloth after each feeding. Cleaning your baby’s gums helps to remove any residue or bacteria that may have accumulated during feeding. Wrap the fabric around your finger and gently rub it over your baby’s gums. This gentle cleaning routine not only helps to keep your baby’s mouth clean and healthy, but it also gets your baby used to having their mouth cleaned, which can make the transition to brushing teeth later on much easier.

• One crucial point to remember is to avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle: This practice can lead to tooth decay as the sugars from the milk or juice can linger on the teeth and lead to cavities. Moreover, it can also increase the risk of ear infections. It’s best to feed your baby before putting them to bed and then gently clean their gums and teeth if they have any.

• By age one, scheduling your child’s first dental visit is crucial. This early visit, recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, is not just a check-up. It’s a foundation for good oral health. The dentist can check for potential issues, guide oral hygiene, and, most importantly, help your child get accustomed to dental visits from an early age. This step is instrumental in ensuring good oral health for your child as they grow. Note: It is a good idea to have family dental insurance to keep your dental care cost more affordable.

• Teething: Infants typically start teething between four and six months old. Teething can cause red, swollen gums, increased saliva flow, and irritability. To help relieve these symptoms, give your infant a clean teething ring or a cold, wet washcloth to chew on. Cold temperatures can be soothing, so consider chilling the teething ring before giving it to your infant.

In conclusion, maintaining good oral health for infants and children prevents dental issues later in life. By following the recommended practices, such as gently cleaning the baby’s gums, avoiding putting the baby to bed with a bottle, scheduling the first dental visit by age one, and providing relief during teething, parents can set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy oral habits. Investing in family dental insurance can also help make dental care more affordable. By prioritizing oral health early on, parents can ensure their children have strong and healthy teeth as they grow.

Infant Dental Care Guidelines – Between the ages of six to twelve months

Your baby will start getting their first tooth between six and eight months. It’s crucial to begin caring for your baby’s teeth immediately to prevent or reduce tooth decay (cavities) in infants and children.

• Once your infant’s first tooth emerges, it’s important to start using a child’s soft-bristled toothbrush with no toothpaste. Gently brush the tooth and the surrounding gum to remove food particles and bacteria. Massaging the gum tissues with a clean finger or a soft cloth can help soothe teething discomfort and promote healthy gum development. This gentle oral care routine will help your infant get used to the sensation of brushing and create a foundation for good oral hygiene habits as they grow.

• To help relieve teething discomfort, you can offer your infant a clean teething ring or a cold, wet washcloth. Chilling the teething ring can provide soothing relief, as the coolness can help numb the gums and alleviate some of the discomfort associated with teething. It’s important to ensure that the teething ring is clean and free from harmful chemicals, and if you’re using a washcloth, make sure it’s cold and damp but not frozen. Always supervise your infant while they are using a teething ring or washcloth to ensure their safety.

• Weaning baby bottle: As your baby begins to consume more solid foods and drinks from a cup, it’s important to start weaning them from the bottle. Gradually introduce a cup of water or juice. Most children can drink from a cup by the age* 12 to 14 months. Encourage healthy habits by limiting the frequency and amount of sweetened beverages and foods your child consumes. Discourage your baby from walking around with a bottle.

• Familiarize yourself with the normal appearance of your child’s gums and teeth. Regularly lift your child’s lips to check for suspicious small white or brown spots on their teeth. If you notice these spots, which may indicate dental decay (cavities), immediately schedule an appointment with your dentist.

• Schedule your child’s first dental appointment. It’s important to schedule your child’s first dental appointment as soon as possible. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should have their first dental exam by their first birthday or six months after their first tooth appears. This early visit allows the dentist to check for any potential issues and helps establish good oral hygiene practices from a young age. Regular dental check-ups from an early age can help ensure the overall health and well-being of your child’s teeth and gums.

• If drinking water is not fluoridated, consult your pediatrician about infant fluoride supplements. Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay and promotes strong teeth. If your drinking water is not fluoridated, it’s important to consult your pediatrician about the need for infant fluoride supplements. Your pediatrician can guide your infant on the appropriate fluoride supplementation, ensuring that your child receives the necessary fluoride to support their dental health as they grow.

• Remember, dental decay is an infectious, transmissible disease. Dental decay, also known as tooth decay or cavities, is caused by bacteria that produce acid and erode the enamel of the teeth. It’s important to be mindful of certain habits that can contribute to transmitting these bacteria. For instance, avoid testing the temperature of a baby’s bottle with your mouth, as this can transfer bacteria. Similarly, sharing utensils such as spoons or cleaning a pacifier or bottle nipple by putting it in your mouth can also spread bacteria that lead to tooth decay. By being aware of and avoiding these practices, you can help prevent the spread of bacteria and reduce the risk of dental decay for yourself and others.

In conclusion, taking care of your baby’s oral health from an early age is crucial for preventing dental issues and promoting good hygiene habits. By following the recommended oral care practices, monitoring your child’s dental development, and scheduling regular dental check-ups, you can help ensure their teeth and gums’ long-term health and well-being. Additionally, being mindful of habits that can contribute to the spread of bacteria and dental decay is important for maintaining a safe and healthy environment for your child. Remember, promoting good oral hygiene habits from a young age can set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Family Dental Insurance

Having family dental insurance is crucial for ensuring that both you and your children can maintain good oral health without worrying about high costs. It provides financial assistance for regular dental check-ups, treatments, and procedures, making dental care more affordable and accessible. With dental insurance, you can effectively manage the expenses associated with oral health and ensure that your family receives the necessary care without having to bear substantial out-of-pocket costs. This coverage also promotes regular dental visits, which are essential for preventing and addressing oral health issues in a timely manner. By having dental insurance, you can prioritize preventive care and address any dental concerns promptly, contributing to your family’s overall well-being.

If you’re in the market for dental insurance, BabyDental.com is an excellent choice to consider. They provide an extensive selection of family dental insurance plans, including both PPO and HMO options, to meet your specific dental care needs. With a range of plans available, you can choose one that aligns with your requirements, offering the flexibility to select the coverage that best suits you and your family.

If you have any inquiries about dental insurance or need assistance in selecting the most suitable dental insurance plan for your family’s dental care needs, please don’t hesitate to contact our office at 310-534-3444 during our office hours from Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM. We are here to discuss our various dental insurance plan options and guide you in choosing one that will best meet the needs of you and your family.

A new study, led by epidemiologist Suchitra Nelson, professor and associate dean at the Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine, and published in JAMA Network Open, highlights the pivotal role of primary care clinicians in improving children’s oral health. The research shows that children’s dental visits significantly increase when these clinicians are trained to discuss oral health with parents, conduct quick oral examinations, and offer dental referrals during annual medical checkups.

The study particularly emphasizes the potential impact on children covered by Medicaid, a group often facing significant dental care barriers. Enhancing dental attendance in this population could contribute to reducing untreated tooth decay and addressing oral health disparities in communities facing socioeconomic challenges, a fact that should concern us all.

It is alarming that 17% of preschool-aged children from lower-income households have untreated cavities in their baby teeth, which is three times the rate among children from higher-income families, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR). Furthermore, the disparity is even more pronounced in Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black children, who exhibit even higher rates of untreated tooth decay compared to non-Hispanic White children. The study underscores the urgency of addressing these disparities.

Nelson stated, “Since children from all backgrounds undergo well-care visits, we saw an opportunity to utilize these checkups effectively. Having primary care providers address dental and oral healthcare sends a powerful message to parents about the importance of seeking dental follow-ups for their children.”

This study underscores the potential for primary care providers to influence children’s oral health positively and urges the integration of oral health discussions within routine medical checkups. Source: Case Western Reserve

Dental Office Routine Checkup Components

A typical routine checkup at a dental office usually consists of several important components to ensure your oral health is in good condition.

1. Dental Cleaning: During a dental cleaning, the dental hygienist will use special tools to remove plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film that contains harmful bacteria, and if it’s not removed, it can harden into tartar, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. The hygienist will also polish your teeth to remove surface stains and brighten your smile. Dental cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing dental problems.

2. Dental Examination: After the cleaning, the dentist will carefully inspect your teeth and gums to check for any signs of decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues. This thorough examination is crucial for early detection and addressing potential problems before they worsen. Regular dental examinations are an important part of maintaining good oral health and preventing more serious issues in the future.

3. X-rays: X-rays are an important part of a dental examination as they can reveal hidden dental problems that may not be visible during a regular checkup. X-rays can help identify issues such as cavities between teeth and problems with the jawbone. They provide a more comprehensive view of your oral health, allowing dentists to detect and address potential issues early on.

4. Oral Cancer Screening: As part of your regular dental checkup, your dentist may conduct an oral cancer screening to check for any signs of oral cancer. Early detection of oral cancer is crucial for successful treatment, so this screening is important to your overall dental care. Further tests may be conducted to confirm a diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment plan if any abnormalities are found during the screening.

5. Discussion and Recommendations: During the discussion, the dentist will explain any issues they found during the examination and may suggest specific changes to your daily oral care routine. The discussion could involve recommendations for brushing techniques, flossing methods, or checkup additional oral care products. Additionally, if any dental problems are identified, the dentist may discuss potential treatment options and answer any questions you may have about the recommended procedures. It’s an opportunity to gain valuable insights into maintaining or improving your oral health.

Maximizing Oral Health Through Accessible Dental Insurance Coverage

Having dental insurance can significantly ease the financial burden of dental care for families. With the rising costs of dental procedures, insurance coverage ensures families can access necessary dental treatments without facing exorbitant out-of-pocket expenses. The high cost, in turn, makes it more likely for families to prioritize regular visits to the dentist, as they can seek preventive care and address any dental issues promptly without worrying about the high costs. Moreover, dental insurance often covers routine checkups and cleanings, encouraging families to maintain consistent dental care as part of their overall healthcare routine. Overall, having dental insurance provides financial relief and promotes proactive dental care, leading to improved oral health for the entire family.

Imagine a family without dental insurance deciding whether to take their children for regular dental checkups. Without insurance, the cost of these visits can add up quickly, causing the family to delay or skip these important preventive appointments. As a result, minor dental issues may go unnoticed and develop into more serious problems, leading to higher costs and potential pain and discomfort for the children.

On the other hand, if the same family had dental insurance, they would be more likely to prioritize these regular checkups, knowing that the financial burden is significantly reduced. This proactive approach to dental care would result in early detection and timely treatment of any issues, resulting in better oral health for the entire family.

In this way, dental insurance provides financial relief and encourages responsible and proactive dental care, leading to better long-term oral health outcomes for families.

Having dental insurance doesn’t have to be costly, especially for families from lower-income households. One good option for them may be dental HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) insurance plans. In contrast to dental PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) insurance plans, which can cost around $150.00 on average for a family plan in California, HMO family plans typically run around $45.00. This significant price difference makes HMO plans a more affordable option for families on a tight budget.

At BabyDental.com, we offer a wide range of dental insurance plans, including PPOs, HMOs, and Indemnity Insurance plans. We also provide dental discount plans. For a free quote and to explore our plan options, please reach out to our member services at 310-534-3444 Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 4 PM. Our team can assist you in selecting a plan that best fits your dental care needs and budget.

As a parent, your role in ensuring good teeth and gum care for infants and toddlers is crucial. This responsibility not only impacts their oral health but also their overall well-being. Establishing good oral hygiene habits from an early age promotes healthy teeth and gums, laying the foundation for a lifetime of good dental health. Your efforts in caring for your baby’s teeth and gums can prevent tooth decay and gum disease, contributing to their general health and development. With the right approach, you can ensure your child’s oral health remains strong and vibrant as they grow.

Why Healthy Baby Teeth Are Important

Healthy baby teeth are important for several reasons:

• Baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, play a crucial role in a child’s development. These first teeth not only help in chewing but also aid in developing speech and language skills. Moreover, they are essential for maintaining good nutrition and for a child’s overall growth and development. Therefore, taking good care of baby teeth and ensuring regular dental check-ups to support a child’s development is important.

• Keeping baby teeth healthy is essential as they are the foundation for a child’s future oral health. Not only do they help children chew and speak properly, but they also guide the permanent teeth into the correct position. Proper oral care, regular dental check-ups, and a healthy diet all contribute to maintaining the health of baby teeth, ensuring a smooth transition to adult teeth.

• Children can develop good oral hygiene habits by maintaining healthy baby teeth from an early age. These habits can have long-term benefits for their dental health and overall well-being. Encouraging children to brush their teeth regularly, supervising their brushing until they are old enough to do it effectively on their own, and taking them for regular dental check-ups can all contribute to establishing good oral hygiene practices that will last a lifetime.

Tips for good teeth and gum care for infants and toddlers.

Taking care of your baby’s oral health from an early age is crucial for ensuring their long-term well-being. Following these tips for good teeth and gum care can set a strong foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles and strong teeth.

• It’s important to start cleaning your baby’s mouth before their teeth come in. You can gently wipe their gums with a clean, moist gauze or washcloth. Wiping their gums helps keep your baby’s mouth clean and healthy, and it also gets them used to the sensation of having their mouth cleaned, making it easier when it’s time to start brushing their teeth.

• Once your baby’s first tooth appears, starting a regular oral hygiene routine is crucial. Gently brushing the tooth with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush using a smear of fluoride toothpaste is a key step. This early start to brushing helps keep the tooth clean and maintains good dental hygiene, setting the stage for healthy oral care habits.

• Promoting healthy eating habits is essential for good oral health. You can encourage a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limiting sugary snacks and drinks and opting for water as the primary beverage can help maintain strong and healthy teeth while promoting overall well-being. Your choices can make a significant difference in your child’s oral health.

• It is crucial to schedule your child’s first dental visit within six months of the first tooth erupting or by their first birthday. This early visit allows the dentist to monitor the development of your child’s teeth, provide guidance on oral hygiene practices, and address any concerns or issues early on. By taking this proactive step, you establish a positive dental experience early, which can help set the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.

• Putting your baby to bed with a bottle can lead to tooth decay because the sugars from the milk or juice pool around the teeth, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. The bacteria can result in the development of cavities, which can be painful and require dental treatment. Additionally, prolonged exposure to sugary liquids can negatively impact the health of your baby’s gums and emerging teeth. Therefore, it’s important to establish a bedtime routine that doesn’t involve allowing your baby to fall asleep with a bottle in their mouth.

Remember, the efforts you put into practicing good oral hygiene from an early age are not just for the present but for your child’s long-term health. Setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums ensures that your child can smile confidently and enjoy good oral health. Your commitment to their oral health now will pave the way for a future of healthy smiles and strong teeth.

Strategies for Encouraging Toddler Cooperation in Teeth Brushing

Encouraging a toddler to cooperate during teeth brushing can be challenging, but here are some effective strategies to make the experience more pleasant for both you and your child:

1. Make it fun: When it comes to encouraging kids to brush their teeth, making it fun is key. You can consider playing their favorite song or a toothbrushing song while they brush their teeth. Making it fun can turn the routine into a joyful activity. Additionally, making up a fun story or game related to brushing can engage their interest and make the experience more enjoyable. These strategies can help turn a daily chore into a fun and positive part of their routine.

2. Lead by example: Leading by example is a great way to instill good habits in children. By brushing your teeth simultaneously with your child, you demonstrate the importance of dental hygiene and make it a shared experience.

• Allowing your child to “help” you brush your teeth can make the activity more interactive and fun for them. This encourages their participation and helps them learn how to brush their teeth properly.

• Making toothbrushing a shared activity creates a positive association with oral hygiene and reinforces that caring for one’s teeth is an essential part of the daily routine.

3. Use child-friendly products: Letting your child choose their toothbrush and toothpaste can make the whole experience more enjoyable for them. You’ll find various toothbrushes specifically designed for children, with vibrant colors and appealing flavors. Allowing your child to pick out their oral care products can help them feel involved in their dental hygiene routine and may encourage them to be more enthusiastic about brushing their teeth. Plus, when excited about their toothbrush and toothpaste, they may be more likely to brush for two minutes.

4. Offer rewards: You can make the rewards chart visually appealing using stickers or colorful markers to track their progress. You can also involve your child in setting goals and choosing the rewards to increase their motivation. Additionally, non-material rewards such as a special outing or extra playtime should be considered an alternative to physical prizes. This way, you can customize the rewards to suit your child’s interests best and keep them excited about maintaining good oral hygiene habits.

5. Be patient and consistent: Being patient and consistent is key when getting your child to brush their teeth regularly. It’s normal for kids to resist new routines, and it may take some time to embrace oral hygiene fully. By staying patient and consistent in your approach and turning tooth brushing into a fun and positive experience, you can make it a natural and non-negotiable part of their daily routine. Remember, positive reinforcement and encouragement can go a long way in establishing good dental habits that will benefit your child in the long run.

By incorporating these strategies, you can help make teeth brushing a positive and enjoyable experience for your toddler while promoting good oral hygiene habits.

Prioritizing Oral Health: Caring for Infants and Toddlers

In conclusion, as a parent or caregiver, it’s essential to prioritize good teeth and gum care for infants and toddlers. Your efforts to establish good oral hygiene habits early on can impact your child’s overall well-being and dental health. Healthy baby teeth are vital for a child’s development, speech, and language skills, as well as their ability to chew and maintain proper nutrition. Additionally, they serve as the foundation for developing permanent teeth and future oral health.

By following the recommended tips for good teeth and gum care, such as starting oral cleaning before your baby’s teeth come in, initiating a regular oral hygiene routine once their first tooth appears, promoting healthy eating habits, scheduling early dental visits, and avoiding bedtime bottle habits, you can set a strong foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

Moreover, encouraging toddler cooperation in teeth brushing is crucial for maintaining oral health. Making the experience fun, involving them in the process, using positive reinforcement, and leading by example are effective strategies for promoting cooperation during teeth brushing.

By staying committed to practicing good oral hygiene and taking proactive steps from an early age, you are contributing to your child’s present well-being and setting the stage for a future of healthy smiles and strong teeth. Your dedication to their oral health will help them smile confidently and enjoy good health. Remember, the efforts you put into caring for your child’s teeth and gums now will have a significant impact on their long-term health and well-being.

If you have any questions about the different types of dental insurance, how they work, or which kind of plan would best fit your dental care needs, please don’t hesitate to contact our member services at 310-534-3444. Our knowledgeable staff can provide information about the various plan types and answer questions about our dental insurance plans. Even if you don’t have dental insurance or would like to explore other options, BabyDental.com is here to assist you.

Get your FREE prescription drug discount card  You can save from 10% to 85% on the cost of both brand name and generic prescriptions immediately.

There are no claim forms to fill out and no limits to the number of times you or your family can use the card. Drug discounts are available only at participating pharmacies. The Pharmacy Discount Program provides discounts for its members at certain participating pharmacies for drugs and other healthcare supplies. You can also save on smoking cessation aids and diabetes supplies. These savings are based on the fact that we have over 56,000 pharmacies processing millions of prescriptions annually.

 

Having Dental work during early pregnancy? I am two months pregnant and I had a dental appointment within the next two weeks to have my wisdom tooth pull since it has been starting to cause some pain. This was set up before I knew I was pregnant.

I have yet to go to a doctor which I am making an appointment for. My question is just how safe is it to have the tooth extracted during early stage of pregnancy? Since I like to still take care of this tooth and going seven months with a bad tooth does not seem like a good idea to me.

Gene Linked to Food Allergy-Related Disorder – Scientists have linked a region of a human chromosome with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), a recently recognized disorder that can cause difficulty eating and is associated with allergies to certain foods. They’ve also identified a gene that’s likely involved in the disorder.

EoE is characterized by inflammation and accumulation of a specific type of immune cell, called an eosinophil, in the esophagus. Symptoms of EoE vary with age. In young children, a major symptom is spitting up food. In older children and adults, the inflammation and swelling can cause food to become stuck in the esophagus. Symptoms may improve with a special liquid formula diet or a diet that lacks 6 highly allergenic foods: milk, soy, eggs, wheat, peanut and seafood.

EoE differs from more common food allergies, which can have serious consequences as well. Little is known about what causes EoE, but the disease runs in families, suggesting that specific genes may be involved. Source: http://www.nih.gov/researchmatters/march2010/03152010allergy.htm

Learning how to brush your teeth

How do you start getting your child to brush their teeth.  My son is almost three and I am still brushing his teeth, because he will not do it on his own.  When he does try he just chews on the tooth brush he does not really brush his teeth.

Is he still to young to brush his own teeth?  Should I wait until he is older to get him to brush his teeth right?  Or is there a trick I can use to get him to brush is teeth correctly?

Fluoridated toothpaste should be introduced when a child is 2-3 years of age. Prior to that, parents should clean the child’s teeth with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. When toothpaste is used after age 2-3, parents should supervise brushing and make sure the child uses no more than a pea-sized amount on the brush. Children should spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing.

Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. A pediatric dentist has two to three years specialty training following dental school and limits his/her practice to treating children only. Pediatric dentists are primary and specialty oral care providers for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health needs.