Early Age Dental Care

K

eeping your child's' teeth strong and healthy is as important to us as it is to you. With that in mind, Intermed Dental Care promotes dental problems prevention as a priority and discuss it with your child in a friendly and easy to understand form!

Below we prepared some answers to the questions you might have.

We also ready to answer any questions you might  have in private, at our Intermed Dental Clinic, please CONTACT US to book and appointment with Dr.Maria.

Early Ages Questions & Answers

Q: Are baby teeth really that important to my child?

A: Baby teeth (also known as primary teeth) help children speak clearly and chew naturally, and they form the path that permanent teeth tend to follow as they begin to erupt.

Q: What should I do if my child has a toothache?

A: Have your child swish with warm salt water, and if there is any swelling, place a cold compress on the area. If the pain is severe, you can give the child acetaminophen. Do not place aspirin on the teeth or gums. Finally, contact us as soon as possible.

Q: Are thumb-sucking and pacifier habits harmful for a child’s teeth?

A: Thumb- and pacifier-sucking habits tend to only become a problem if the child carries on with the habit for a very long period of time. If your child is still sucking his or her thumb or fingers past the age of three, we may recommend a special mouth appliance.

Q: How often does my child need to see the pediatric dentist?

A: We recommend a check-up every six months to prevent cavities and other dental problems. If there are any problems or concerns, Dr. Maria will let you know if your child will require more frequent visits.

Q: When should I introduce toothpaste into my child’s daily routine?

A: The sooner, the better! Beginning at birth, parents should clean their child’s gums with a soft-bristle infant toothbrush or a cloth and water. Then as the teeth begin to erupt, you should start brushing your child’s teeth twice daily using fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, age-appropriate toothbrush. Use a “smear” of toothpaste to brush children under two and until your child can spit the toothpaste into the sink. Around age five and if your child can spit into the sink you should use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, and you should offer assistance in tooth brushing until your child turns seven. Young children are not able to brush their own teeth effectively, and toothpaste should always be spit out, not swallowed.

Q: How do sealants work?

A: Dental sealants fill in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of your child’s teeth, preventing food particles from getting caught and causing cavities. The application of dental sealants is fast and comfortable and can protect teeth for years.

Q: How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride?

A: We can evaluate the fluoride level of your child’s primary source of drinking water. If the fluoride level is deficient, or if your child drinks bottled water lacking fluoride, Dr. Maria may prescribe fluoride supplements, but only after reviewing any potential sources of fluoride your child is exposed to.

Q: As a parent, am i allowed to accompany my child during his visit?

A: Dr. Maria absolutely welcomes parents into the back during their childrens visit. This brings ease to the child and greatly encouraged at Intermed Dental care.  We love for parents to be active participants in their child's care!

Q: What should I do if my child falls and knocks out a permanent tooth?

A: First of all, stay calm, and try to find the tooth. Only handle the crown, avoid touching the root, and attempt to reinsert the tooth in the socket. If you’re unable to do so, put the tooth in cold milk, and bring your child and the milk containing the tooth to our office.

Q: How can parents help prevent tooth decay?

A: Just like adults, children need to see the dentist regularly. So, at first sight of your baby’s first tooth, it’s time to come see us. Dr. Maria will recommend a routine for brushing, flossing, and other treatments that parents can follow with infants, and then supervise and teach to children as they grow and mature. Daily at-home maintenance and regular dental visits, along with a balanced diet, will help teach your children a lifetime of healthy habits. 

Your Personal Consultation.

Intermed Dental Care provides general and cosmetic dental services to patients from all over Ireland. Call our Dublin office to schedule your appointment, and we'll set aside time for one of our professional doctors to talk with you about your oral health and ideal smile.