As a young mother, I was reasonably ignorant when raising my firstborn. My biggest regret is that I didn't help her take better care of her teeth. Like many people, I didn't realise the importance of baby teeth, resulting in long-term dental problems. Recently, my daughter got married and some of my tears were for the beautiful, glistening smile she presented to the cameras. Ever since I realised the dental damage I had caused, I had been saving for my daughter to have cosmetic dentistry. The results are remarkable. During the course of this journey, I have learnt a lot about caring for children's teeth and corrective procedures that can be undertaken when issues arise. I am sure many of you would be interested in the latest knowledge and techniques that are available to prevent and repair dental complications. I'm Margret Devlin - thanks for visiting.
As a parent, you do everything you can to try to keep your kids' teeth healthy. Despite all the brushing, flossing, and regular dental appointments, some children still develop cavities, which need to be filled. Use these tips to prepare your child for their first dental filling.
1. Be Calm
If you dread fillings, try to avoid passing that feeling onto your little one. Instead of saying that getting a filling is a scary or painful procedure, explain the process factually and positively in age-appropriate terms. For example, you could say that the dentist is going to add material to their tooth to make it stronger.
2. Ensure Suitable Pain Relief
Most dentists use a needle to deliver local anaesthetic into a child's gum before they start to work on a tooth. However, for many children, the prick of the needle is almost as frightening as the filling itself. Ask your dentist to use a gel on the gums to prevent the needle from causing pain. A good family dentist will then avoid showing the needle to the child to avoid causing pain.
3. Remember That Sedation Is an Option
Some children have a harder time than others sitting still while a dentist fills their tooth. Sedation is an option for kids who have anxiety, autism, or other conditions that make dental fillings difficult for them. Some dentists use nitrous oxide gas to help kids relax, whereas others provide oral sedatives that you can give your child in advance of the appointment to relieve any feelings of anxiety. Discuss the options with your family dentist to find out which would be best for your child.
4. Discuss Numbness With Your Child
After a dental filling, your child's mouth will feel numb for a while. It is vital to let them know to expect this feeling, or they could worry that something is wrong. Some kids tend to bite or chew on their lips or inner cheeks while they have no sensation, which causes injury. Distract them from this behaviour by engaging them in conversation or giving them a drink or some soft food to enjoy.
5. Make a Plan Against Future Cavities
Not all cavities are preventable, but you can lower your child's risk with a healthy diet and a good dental hygiene routine. Encourage your kids to eat fibrous, low-sugar snacks and ensure they brush thoroughly every morning and evening. Schedule regular appointments with your family dentist to prevent cavities developing.
Contact a family dentistry clinic near you to learn more.
Share22 October 2020
