5 Things Families Should Know About Dental Health

Toothpaste with fluoride for infants and children

For children younger than 3 years, you should begin brushing a child’s teeth with fluoride toothpaste in an amount no larger than a grain of rice. For children 3 to 6 years of age, use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.

Consider sealants to prevent decay or treat beginning cavities on the back teeth

Sealants act as a barrier to prevent cavities. They are a resin material applied by a dentist to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay occurs most often.

Ask about all the options for calming your child during dental procedures

Dental work can be scary for some kids. Talk to your dentist about ways to help your child stay calm. Tips for a successful dental visit can include talking to your child about what to expect, like sitting in a big chair that leans back, and about how the dentist will look at their teeth. Make sure your child is not hungry before their dental appointment and scheduling an appointment at the proper time of day.

For jaw pain, try conservative treatments first

Jaw pain can be caused by stress, arthritis or an injury. A treatment plan for jaw pain should first consist of actions like exercises and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Don’t replace fillings just because they’re old

When you have a cavity, the dentist removes it and puts a filling. These fillings can last for many years, but some people get silver fillings removed because they don’t like the color. However, the process of removing a filling for aesthetic reasons can weaken the tooth, and insurance may not cover the cost of replacement if it is unnecessary.