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Pediatric Dentistry

Are Pediatric Dentists Trained to Help Autistic Patients?

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Choosing a pediatric dentist for your child is important, and parents want to know their child is in good hands, and receiving the very best care. For those patients that have special needs, it is important for parents to find a dentist they are comfortable with. At Dentist X, we provide exceptional dental care for our pediatric patients. We welcome autistic patients and patients that have special needs.

Pediatric dentists attend two to three years of training after dental school to help them understand all of the unique needs to treat pediatric patients. This training includes children with autism. Any medical appointment can be a challenge to both the parent and child, and finding the right dentist is essential.

Oral hygiene is important, and bringing your child to the dentist helps to ensure their teeth look great and are free of decay. At Dentist X, we ensure your child has a positive experience, and feels comfortable and relaxed when they visit our office. We make many adjustments during the visit to make the appointment run smoothly.

Benefits of Taking Your Child to a Pediatric Dentist

  • Pediatric dentists are trained to work with children, and to treat children with autism or special needs. Our staff has also been trained how to handle children with special needs. We work together with the parent and patient to ensure there is a positive experience in our office.
  • Pre-visits are available to have the parents and child meet our doctor and staff, discuss any sensory issues or concerns, and see the exam room. This allows the parent to prepare their child for the visit to our office, and gives our staff the opportunity to brief the parent with details on their child’s appointment.
  • Our practice is kid friendly, and the way the staff handles each procedure helps to make children feel comfortable during their visit. If your child is sensitive to light or sounds we have the ability to turn the lights down, and make adjustments in the room to help make the appointment run smoothly.
  • If needed we offer nitrous oxide or “laughing gas”, conscious sedation, and general anesthesia to help our special needs patients get through a dental procedure. These options are safe, and allow our doctors to treat patients easily if they require a complicated procedure. We take these options very seriously, and only use these methods when absolutely necessary. All medical conditions are considered, and a medical exam is required before any sedation is done.
  • Communication is key when you take your child to their dentist appointment. Our staff is trained to communicate before, during, and after any treatment. This helps to ensure the parent and pediatric patient are comfortable, and are aware of what is needed every step of the way.
  • The dental office is decorated in kid friendly colors, and we provide games and entertainment for the kids.
  • Our patients are provided with small toys after their visit, and this gives them something to look forward to when they visit our office.

Looking for a Pediatric Dentist or Special Needs Dentist in X?

If you are looking to find a pediatric or special needs dentist in X, our team is here to help. We strive to provide the very best care for our special needs patients, and ensure when they visit our office they have a positive experience. We know choosing the right pediatric dentist is important, and part of our consultation process is to get to know our patients, and understand what we can do to help make their visit exceptional.

If you are looking to schedule a dental exam for your child, contact our office and we will be happy to assist you!

What Types of TreatmentsDo Pediatric Dentists Provide?

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Pediatric dentists take an additional two to three years of special training after finishing their dentalrequirements. These doctors treat infants and children through adolescence. It is importantto seek outa pediatric dentist for your child by the age of one,orwhen their first teeth erupt. Visiting the dentist ata young age sets the stage for the future,and teaches your child how to practice good oral hygienehabits.

At our office, we welcomeall of our pediatric patients to visit our office beforehand and take a tour. Wewant all of our patients to feel comfortable and relaxed when they visit the dentist for the first time. Ourstaff is trained to work with children, and we always strive to provide exceptional care.

Pediatric Services

Our Office offers many pediatric services to keep your child’s teeth looking great. Visiting our office canhelp get in front of any issues, and allow us to track their development each time they visit.

Diagnosis and Exams

When your child visits ouroffice,we will complete a thorough exam of their teeth and mouth. We lookfor things like overbites, underbites, or teeth grinding. Correcting these issues early on is important.

Oral Education

Our team is trained tohelp teach our pediatric patientshow to take care of their teeth, and practicegood oral hygiene habits at home. We work with the parents and give them tips on what products touse,as well as diet recommendations to keep their teeth healthy.

Dental Treat ments

Preventative treatments are offered such as fluoride or sealants. We watch primary teeth closely,andmake sure they do not become misaligned. We offer pulp therapy if your child has had any injury or oraltrauma.

Other Services

Other services done in our office include fillings and teeth extraction. Pediatric dentists can fix a chippedor broken tooth,and can treat teeth for sensitivity. As your child grows,we will watch their teeth to seeif any orthodontics are needed,and ensure their jaw is developing normally. If necessary, we can referyou to our preferred orthodontist.

What Can I Expect During My Child’s First Visit?

Visiting the dentist for the first time can be stressful,and we want your child’s first appointment to gowell. When youcontactour office for the firsttime,we always welcome our newpatients,and offer youto tour the office prior toyour first appointment. This helps the child feel comfortable when they returnthat day for their appointment.

During your child’sappointmentwe examine their teeth and take any x-rays needed. Our doctors willcheck for any developing cavities and recommend treatment if necessary. Our team provides a thoroughexam of their teeth and jaws to check their development and to make sure we do not seeany concerns.

Talking with the parents during the visit is important, and we always ask if there are any ongoing healthissues with your child. This also gives the parents the ability to ask any questions or discuss any concernsthey have about their child’s oral health. Our staff will also review oral hygiene habits at home to ensureyour child is taking good care of their teeth. Positive reinforcement and encouragement are importantto us. When your child is finished with their appointment, our staff will provide a prize at the end oftheir visit as an incentive for good behavior.

Ready to Schedule Your Appointment?

If you are interested in a pediatric dentist, and are ready to schedule your child’s appointment, pleasecontact us today, and our friendlystaff will assist you. We look forward to your visit, and are excited tohave you join our dental family.
 

Do Kids Need Dental Crowns?

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dental crowns

If your child is prone to cavities, you may wonder if there is anything dentists can do to save their teeth. Cavities are very common in children, and many children are prone to cavities while others are not. If a child has a small cavity, we may choose to just monitor the tooth, or recommend a dental filling. If the tooth has severe decay, a crown may be recommended in order to save the tooth. Dental crowns can protect a severely damaged or decayed tooth, and preserve the tooth underneath.

Why Would My Child Need a Dental Crown?

Primary teeth are very important in a child’s development. They help with growth and development, speech, and eating. It is important to try and keep a child’s primary teeth for as long as you can to protect and maintain their oral health. Primary teeth serve as placeholders for adult teeth. If a child does not have their primary teeth, this can cause orthodontic issues. The adult teeth may not erupt properly or will erupt in the wrong direction. If your child has a cavity, placing a crown on the tooth can leave the primary tooth intact, but protect the tooth from further damage.

How Does a Crown Procedure Work?

Crowns can be placed in one dental visit making this ideal for children. During the procedure, the primary tooth is cleaned and prepared. We use local anesthesia along with Nitrous oxide or laughing gas to keep your child calm and comfortable. Once the tooth is prepped and ready, the crown is gently affixed on top of the tooth. Recovery is minimal, and we recommend waiting a few hours after the procedure to eat or drink. This allows the numb feeling to wear off. Your child’s bite may feel odd, but after a few days, they will adjust to the new crown.

Dental crowns are very durable and should last until the primary tooth is lost. Practicing good oral hygiene habits at home can help keep your crown feeling and looking great. We encourage regular visits to our office to give our doctors the ability to monitor the crown and check for additional decay. Dental cleanings and exams help to keep track of a child’s oral development and can help address cavities or other concerns as your child grows.

Ready To Find Out More About Dental Crowns?

At No Sugar Bugs Club, your child’s health is our priority. Our doctors have years of experience in pediatric dentistry and love to work with children. We create a calm and relaxing environment and always ensure your child has a positive experience. Let our team at No Sugar Bugs Club provide quality dental care you can trust.

If you have concerns about your child’s teeth, or they are due for their exam and cleaning, contact No Sugar Bugs Club, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Why Does My 2 Year Old Grind His Teeth?

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grind teeth

Teeth grinding is also known as bruxism and is very common in children. Teeth grinding involves pressing down on both the upper and lower jaw, and moving the mouth side to side grinding the teeth together. There are a few reasons why children may do this and, in many cases, children grind their teeth during sleep and they don’t even know it.

At No Sugar Bugs Club Children’s Dentistry, our doctors are available to help parents address issues such as teeth grinding. Our team can give you advice on how to help your child stop grinding their teeth, and answer any questions or concerns you may have.

What Causes Teeth Grinding in Children?

Many children have sleep-related bruxism, and their jaws contract during sleep, which causes teeth to grind. Some parents can hear their child grinding their teeth and their child has no idea they are doing it. The severity of teeth grinding differs between children, and this can cause damage to their teeth. Prolonged grinding can wear down the teeth and this may cause issues in the future.

The good news is most children who grind their teeth grow out of it by the age of six. There are cases when children continue to grind their teeth through adulthood. Teeth grinding can also be caused by stress, pain, or because the teeth are misaligned. Grinding your teeth is not dangerous and most likely will disappear as children get older. If you notice your child’s teeth are damaged as a result of teeth grinding, we encourage you to be seen in our office.

When Should I Get My Child Help?

Teeth grinding is not serious and usually does not require treatment. In rare cases, teeth grinding may be caused by another condition that may require treatment.  If your child experiences any of the following symptoms, we recommend you contact our practice right away.

  • Signs of damage or trauma to the teeth or gums.
  • Complains of headaches.
  • Your child is in pain when they wake up.
  • Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold.

Interested in Finding Out More About Teeth Grinding in Children?

If you are interested in finding out more, or your child is due for their exam and cleaning, contact No Sugar Bugs Club Children’s Dentistry. We provide the highest level of service, and always ensure each child has a positive experience. When a child visits our office, we want them to feel comfortable and relaxed. We provide quality care you can trust, and always have your child’s best interest in mind.

To schedule an appointment with us, contact No Sugar Bugs Club Children’s Dentistry, and our staff will be happy to help.

What Age to Stop Pacifier?

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Pacifiers are used by many infants and children, and they offer comfort and reduce stress. Pacifiers are great when children are young, but many parents wonder when it is appropriate to wean their child off of the pacifier. Using a pacifier can cause issues with a child’s mouth, jaw, and teeth if it is used too long.

At No Sugar Bugs Club Children’s Dentistry we work with our patients and parents to help give you tips and tricks to help scale back on pacifier use, and eventually stop using it completely. We understand how important pacifier use is for infants and toddlers, but is also very important to take the pacifier away to prevent issues from developing in the future.

What Are Tips To Help My Child Stop Using a Pacifier?

Each child is different and what you do for one child may not work for another. We recommend parents do what is best for their child, and we help parents by recommending behavior modifications to help with the process. Finding the perfect time is important, and parents should look at what is going on in the child’s life while weaning them off of the pacifier. Getting creative can help, and parents need to find new ways to comfort their child. Providing your child with incentives is important, and always using positive reinforcement to let them know they are doing great will make the process easier.

What Issues Can a Pacifier Cause?

A pacifier provides soothing comfort to a child, and when a child is born the sucking reflex is natural. The perfect time for a child to stop using a pacifier is between the ages of two and four. If a child continues to use a pacifier beyond this age range their jaw or bite could be compromised.

Pacifiers can cause children to develop an over bite, or affect how their teeth erupt in the mouth. Orthodontic treatment is common for children who have used a pacifier. Weaning your child off of a pacifier should be done as early as possible because as the child grows older, breaking the habit will become more difficult.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you would like to schedule an appointment for your child, or you would like to find out more about the benefits of weaning a child off of the pacifier, contact No Sugar Bugs Club Children’s Dentistry. We provide the very best care, and our practice is equipped with the latest technology. Learning about good oral hygiene habits at an early age can set the stage for the future, and help your child develop good habits.

To schedule an appointment contact No Sugar Bugs Club Children’s Dentistry and our friendly staff will be happy to help you.

Is it Worth Buying an Electric Toothbrush?

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Your toothbrush is an important part of your daily oral care routine. Choosing the right toothbrush can help you keep your teeth and gums healthy. Today, there are many options available, and electric toothbrushes are very popular. Both manual and electric toothbrushes are made to remove plaque, bacteria, and prevent cavities. Knowing the benefits of an electric toothbrush can help you decide if they are right for you.

What Are the Benefits of an Electric Tooth Brush?

Power

An electric toothbrush is battery powered and does not require you to manually brush for at least two minutes. They do the work for you, and can really reach areas that a manual brush cannot. Some models even include a timer so you know exactly how long to brush. Electric toothbrushes can cover areas quicker and easier compared to a manual brush.

Effort

Less effort is required with an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes clear away bacteria faster and easier compared to a manual tooth brush.

Plaque and Bacteria

Electric toothbrushes can remove bacteria and plaque easier and faster compared to a manual toothbrush. This makes brushing easier, and studies have found that those that use an electric toothbrush have less plaque and bacteria buildup over time. The bristles of an electric toothbrush gently remove plaque and bacteria without wearing down your gums or enamel.

Easy To Use

Electric toothbrushes are really easy to use, and can help people who have a hard time brushing or moving their hands. When brushing you simply move the brush from tooth to tooth, and this makes the process quick and efficient without having to manually brush each tooth.

Help Children Keep Good Oral Hygiene Habits

Electric toothbrushes also help children keep their teeth clean and free of plaque. There are electric brushes that are smaller and designed specifically for children. They make sounds, and come with a timer to make brushing fun and easy.

Is an Electric Toothbrush Right for Me?

Electric toothbrushes are a great tool that help to remove bacteria and plaque from your teeth. They are a great alternative to manual toothbrushes, and can make your oral care routine easier. Electric toothbrushes do cost a bit more, but many people say they are worth the investment. Whatever brush you choose, it is always important to brush and floss daily to keep your teeth and mouth looking and feeling great.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out if an electric toothbrush is right for you, contact No Sugar Bugs Club. Our staff is happy to discuss the benefits of an electric toothbrush, and review which brands we recommend. Your oral health is important, and using the right tools at home can help you keep your teeth and mouth healthy.

To schedule your appointment with us contact contact No Sugar Bugs Club, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

What is Safe to Eat After a Frenectomy?

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If your child has a short or thick frenulum that restricts the tongue’s movement, they may have a tongue tie, and have been recommended for a frenectomy procedure. Many babies are born with tongue-ties, and parents notice the child has issues when they eat, speak, or breastfeed.

A frenectomy is a simple procedure that helps to restore movement of the tongue. The procedure only takes a few minutes, and is done in our office. During the procedure the lingual frenulum, or skin underneath the tongue is gently cut and released to restore movement. After the procedure healing is minimal, and parents must help to stretch the tissue that has been cut or lasered away. This prevents the skin from growing back too tightly.

After the procedure, patients should follow a soft foods diet and avoid very hot foods. Soft foods include jello, applesauce, or pudding. We recommend to avoid any salty or acidic foods, or any foods that are extremely cold or hot. As the area heals and any numbing wears off, the patient can move to solid foods. While eating parents should try and help them keep the food away from the surgical area.

Following these guidelines will ensure your child’s recovery goes smoothly, and helps to avoid any complications. Our staff is available to answer any questions or concerns throughout the process. If your child experiences any prolonged pain, or has symptoms you are concerned about, we encourage you to call our office right away.

Interested in Finding Out More About a Frenectomy?

If you have a concern about your child’s speech, and want to find out more about the frenectomy procedure, contact No Sugar Bugs Club Children’s Dentistry. Our doctors have years of experience in treating pediatric tongue-ties, and we always provide gentle and compassionate care to all of our patients. Our staff is trained to work with children, and we always ensure they have a positive experience when they visit our office. At No Sugar Bugs Club Children’s Dentistry we use state of the art technology, and provide a comfortable environment for all of our patients.

To schedule a consultation with us, contact No Sugar Bugs Club Children’s Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

What Should I Look for In a Dentist That Treats Autistic Children?

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autistic children

Editor’s Note: This blog post was updated on June 20, 2024, to include new tips and updated information.

Choosing the right pediatric dentist for your child is crucial, especially if your child has special needs such as autism. It’s essential to find a dentist who is not only skilled in pediatric care but also understands the unique requirements of autistic patients. At No Sugar Bugs Club, we provide exceptional dental care for all our pediatric patients, including those with autism and other special needs.

Specialized Training for Pediatric Dentists

Pediatric dentists undergo an additional two to three years of training after dental school to equip them with the skills necessary to treat children, including those with special needs. This specialized training includes understanding how to handle the unique challenges that come with treating autistic children during pediatric dentistry. Medical appointments can be particularly challenging for autistic children and their parents, making it critical to find a dentist who can ensure a smooth and comfortable experience.

Tips for Choosing a Pediatric Dentist

  1. Experience with Special Needs: Look for a pediatric dentist who has experience working with autistic children or those with other special needs. Inquire about their procedures and how they tailor their approach to accommodate these patients. At No Sugar Bugs Club, we collaborate closely with parents to ensure each patient has a positive experience. We are sensitive to each child’s needs and are committed to providing the highest level of care.
  2. Pre-Visit Opportunities: Ensure that the dentist offers a pre-visit option. This allows you to meet the doctor and staff before the actual appointment, discuss any concerns, and familiarize your child with the office and exam room. Pre-visits can help prepare your child and allow the staff to understand how to make the appointment as comfortable as possible. At No Sugar Bugs Club, our staff is highly trained to work with children with special needs, ensuring every detail is discussed and planned.
  3. Sensitivity to Light and Sound: Discuss with the dentist how they handle sensitivity to light or sound, common concerns for autistic children. At No Sugar Bugs Club, we can adjust lighting and sound levels to create a more comfortable environment for your child.
  4. Sedation Options: If necessary, inquire about the availability of sedation options such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or conscious sedation. These methods can help children who need to undergo complex procedures. We only recommend sedation after a thorough review of medical history and a necessary medical exam, ensuring it is safe and appropriate for your child.
  5. Effective Communication: Communication is key to a successful dental visit. Ensure the staff communicates effectively with you and your child before, during, and after treatment. This helps make sure everyone is comfortable and aware of the steps involved. At No Sugar Bugs Club, our staff is trained to maintain clear and supportive communication throughout the process.
  6. Child-Friendly Environment: The waiting area in a pediatric dentist’s office should be welcoming and engaging for children, with kid-friendly colors, games, or entertainment options. At No Sugar Bugs Club, we have created an inviting environment where children can play or watch a movie while waiting for their appointment.
  7. Incentives for Positive Experiences: Offering small incentives, like a toy after the visit, can make dental appointments more enjoyable for children. This gives them something to look forward to and can help create positive associations with dental visits.

Looking for a Pediatric Dentist That Treats Autistic Children?

If you are searching for a pediatric or special needs dentist, No Sugar Bugs Club is here to help. We strive to provide the highest level of care for all our patients, ensuring that each visit is a positive experience. During our consultation process, we take the time to get to know each patient and understand their specific needs. This personalized approach helps us customize their visits and make their experiences as positive as possible.

If you would like to schedule a dental exam for your child, contact No Sugar Bugs Club, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe for Children?

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little girl patient teeth on white at the dentist's office

As children grow older and their permanent teeth erupt, their teeth can look dull or yellow in color. Many parents inquire about teeth whitening for their children. In some cases, the yellow color is due to what your child eats or drinks, poor dental hygiene, or decay. The good news is teeth whitening can be safe for children if they meet certain criteria.

What Is Required for Children To Begin To Whiten Their Teeth?

Teeth whitening for children is generally safe, but there is some risk involved. Typically, we recommend having your dentist provide teeth whitening treatment, and avoid using over the counter products that can cause sensitivity. Children must meet certain criteria in order to begin whitening their teeth.

On average teeth whitening can begin between the ages of 14-16. We require the child to have all of their permanent teeth. It is best to not begin whitening treatment until all the adult teeth are present, and there are no baby teeth left. We also examine your child to ensure their enamel has fully calcified. If you child requires orthodontic treatment to correct misaligned teeth, this must also be completed before any teeth whitening treatment begins.

Our team at No Sugar Bugs Club can help your child achieve that perfect white smile. Our detailed exam can determine if your child qualifies to begin treatment. If we recommend waiting to start whitening treatment, we may recommend using whitening toothpaste to help your child with staining or discoloration.

To determine if your child is ready to begin treatment to whiten their teeth, scheduling a consultation with us is the first step. Our skilled doctors can determine the best treatment options, and help your child achieve that perfect smile.

Ready To Find Out More About Teeth Whitening?

If you are interested in finding out more about teeth whitening for your child, contact No Sugar Bugs Club to schedule your appointment. Your child’s oral health is our priority, and we provide quality dental care you can trust in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

To schedule your consultation, contact No Sugar Bugs Club, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

Is it Normal to Defer to a Pediatric Dentist for Fillings?

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pediatric dentist for fillings

If your child has severe decay or an infection, you may think the only solution would be the pull the primary tooth. Instead, your dentist can treat the inside of the baby tooth to save the tooth by performing a root canal. There are many benefits to saving primary teeth, and keeping them in your child’s mouth as long as you can.

Root canals can help save a tooth from an infection in the pulp area or center of a tooth. During a root canal procedure, the inflamed area of the tooth is cleaned out and sealed to prevent bacteria from entering in the future. Today dentists believe saving a baby tooth is just as important as saving an adult tooth.

What Are the Recommendations if My Child Has a Cavity?

In many cases children do not even notice they have a cavity until the cavity has progressed and become very large. If the cavity is large a silver crown may be recommended because primary teeth cannot handle large fillings. If the cavity is smaller and only on the surface of the tooth, we may recommend just watching the area. Depending on the size of the cavity and the type of tooth, our team will recommend the best treatment, and determine if a filling is needed.

At No Sugar Bugs Club Children’s Dentistry, we always choose the least invasive option and have your child’s best interest at hand. Our team will look at the child’s dental history, and consider the child’s risk for future cavities. We will provide a customized treatment plan, and discuss this plan with the parents to help decide what option is best for the child.

What Can I Expect During My Child’s Filling Appointment?

Talking to your child before their visit is important. Explain to them that the appointment will be easy, and that they will feel better after their appointment. When you come in for the appointment, we will bring you to the treatment room, and discuss the treatment plan to confirm everyone knows what is required. We may allow the parent to be present during the procedure if the child has anxiety, and seems to need parental support. We can discuss what is best for your child, and work with each patient to ensure both the parent and patient are comfortable.

Once your child is comfortable in the treatment room our doctor will explain the procedure in terms that are easily understood, and show them some of the tools that will be used. We offer TV as a distraction, and this helps the child to stay calm during the procedure. If anesthetic is needed, we will first numb the area with a topical numbing cream to help the process go smoothly.

Our goal is to keep your child calm and comfortable during their procedure. Once the procedure is complete, we will allow the child to pick out a special prize for completing their appointment. If we have any post treatment recommendations, we will discuss them with the parent after the procedure is complete. Our goal at No Sugar Bugs Club Children’s Dentistry, is to ensure your child has the very best experience when they visit our office.

Interested in Scheduling an Appointment With Us?

If you think your child may have a cavity, or you have been referred to our practice for treatment, contact No Sugar Bugs Club Children’s Dentistry to schedule your appointment. Our doctors have years of experience in pediatric dentistry, and we provide the highest level of service. We look forward to you joining our dental family.

To schedule an appointment for your child, contact No Sugar Bugs Club Children’s Dentistry, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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