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The Power of Daily Oral Hygiene for Kids

At Sprout Kids Dentistry, we believe that cultivating good oral hygiene habits from a young age is essential for lifelong dental health. In this blog, we will explore how regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. By instilling these habits early, we help ensure that your child enjoys a healthy smile and a strong foundation for overall well-being.

Why is Regular Teeth Cleaning Crucial?

Regular dental check-ups and teeth cleanings are essential for everyone, particularly children. These activities enable the early detection and prevention of dental issues, ensure healthy growth and development of teeth, and foster good oral health habits in kids. Ignoring these can result in painful dental problems that might necessitate more extensive and costly treatment.

Summer, while being a season of relaxation, also brings an increase in the consumption of sugary delights like ice-creams, popsicles, sodas, and other snacks, all of which can adversely affect children’s oral health. Therefore, regular teeth cleaning becomes more crucial during this period.

The Role of Pediatric Dentistry

Developing good oral hygiene habits early in life is imperative for long-term oral health. This is where pediatric dentistry steps in. At Sprout Kids Dentistry of Quincy, LLC, Dr. Michelle Anderson, DMD, and her team are dedicated to offering a comprehensive and gentle teeth-cleaning approach specially designed to meet the unique needs of children.

Benefits of Regular Teeth Cleaning for Children

Engaging in daily oral hygiene practices is not just for keeping bad breath at bay, but by make an effort to give your teeth the attention they deserve each and every day you can experience a myriad of other benefits.

Prevention of Tooth Decay

Cavities, a common issue in children, are primarily caused by plaque build-up. Regular teeth cleaning helps remove this build-up, preventing tooth decay.

Ensuring Healthy Gums

Daily oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, helps remove plaque and food particles that can lead to gum disease in children. By maintaining these habits consistently, kids can reduce the risk of gum inflammation, gingivitis, and other oral health

Promotion of Good Oral Health Habits

Regular cleaning sessions act as practical lessons for kids, teaching them the importance of good oral hygiene habits. When these habits are established early on, they become skills that kids will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

Ensure Your Child’s Oral Health this Summer with Sprout Kids Dentistry

At Sprout Kids Dentistry of Quincy, LLC, we are firm believers in making every child’s visit to our clinic a fun-filled learning session all the while ensuring the most delicate care, especially during teeth cleaning procedures. In an atmosphere of gentleness and encouragement, Dr. Michelle Anderson invokes trust and imparts valuable lessons to embed robust oral hygiene habits in children.

Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about the power of daily oral hygiene and how you can help your kids establish good oral hygiene habits this summer, schedule a consultation at Sprout Kids Dentistry today! Head to our website to fill out an online contact form.

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How to Choose a Cavity-Fighting Toothpaste for Your Child

We’ve all faced a confusing array of options in the dental care aisle. In this month’s blog, let’s consider these two cavity-fighting toothpaste options for your kiddos and determine which might be the optimal choice for their oral health.

Fluoridated toothpaste: The trusted guardian

Cavity protection:

Fluoride toothpaste is the gold standard for toothpaste. It has a known efficacy in guarding against cavities. How does it achieve this though? Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that acts as a protective barrier for teeth, strengthening enamel against acid erosion caused by bacteria.

Enamel restoration:

Beyond protection, fluoride plays a pivotal role in enamel repair by fostering remineralization. It replenishes minerals in weakened enamel, effectively addressing the early stages of tooth decay.

Established reputation:

Fluoridated toothpaste has been around for a while since it has been proven to be a reliable partner in keeping teeth healthy. Its widespread endorsement by dentists has solidified its reputation as the recommended treatment.

Hydroxyapatite toothpaste: The natural caretaker

Derived from nature:

Synthetic hydroxyapatite, which is a crucial part of dental enamel, is incorporated into toothpaste recipes. The qualities of the actual mineral are mimicked by this biomimetic material.

Enamel nurturing:

Think of toothpaste with hydroxyapatite as a caring partner for enamel. Enamel is strengthened and repaired in an effort to smooth out flaws and maybe reduce tooth sensitivity, helping to rejuvenate your teeth.

Fluoride-free alternative:

A desirable substitute that offers freedom from fluoride while preserving dental health is hydroxyapatite toothpaste, which appeals to people looking for fluoride-free options or who are worried about consuming fluoride.

Comparative review:

Cavity prevention: While toothpaste containing hydroxyapatite is good at repairing enamel, it is still relatively new in the field of cavity prevention. Fluoride toothpaste has a strong track record in this regard.

Enamel strengthening:

Both versions seek to support the health of the enamel, but they do so in different ways. While toothpaste containing hydroxyapatite adds synthetic hydroxyapatite to strengthen enamel, fluoride toothpaste uses fluoride for remineralization.

Fluoride consideration:

An important differentiation can be made between fluoride and fluoride-free options. For individuals who are hesitant about consuming fluoride, hydroxyapatite toothpaste is a viable option, even though fluoride toothpaste is supported by substantial research.
Personal preference:

The best toothpaste to use ultimately depends on a person’s unique must haves, including sensitivity, requirements for maintaining good dental health, and personal preferences such as taste, or natural ingredients.
Balancing fluoride in your routine:

One last thing before we go…

Fluoride is a mineral found in toothpaste that acts as a kind of cavity defender. It is wise to evaluate your intake of fluoride, particularly shedding light on non-fluoridated communities along the South Shore such as Braintree. It is also important to consider your child’s daily fluoride intake and the sources of fluoride. Are they getting an adequate daily supply of fluoride from tap water, toothpaste, mouth rinses, and diet?

The CDC’s My Water’s Fluoride tool provides information about the fluoride level in your water. It’s critical to keep your child’s fluoride consumption balanced. Dr. Anderson and her Sprout Kids Dentistry Team follow the guidelines outlined in the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s Policy on Use of Fluoride. Dr. Anderson’s preferred toothpaste selections for every need

Trusted Household Choice: Opt for the reliability of Crest, Colgate, or Tom’s of Maine for consistent dental care.
Hydroxyapatite Enriched: Experience advanced enamel repair with Risewell, a leader in hydroxyapatite technology.
Focus on Pure Ingredients: Choose Twice for a toothpaste that emphasizes clean, health-conscious ingredients.
Flavorful Dental Experience: Try the unique and enjoyable flavors of Tom’s of Maine, making brushing a treat.
Comfort for Sensitive Teeth: Trust Sensodyne for gentle and effective care in managing tooth sensitivity.

Whether you prefer the all-natural benefits of hydroxyapatite or the tried-and-true effectiveness of fluoride, the end result is always the same: maintaining the integrity and brightness of your child’s teeth.

Schedule Your Appointment

Remember, your child’s smile is our success! Feel free to reach out to us with any queries or for further information. All of us at Sprout Kids Dentistry look forward to maintaining the oral health of our little ones in Quincy, MA. Fill out an online contact form to schedule an appointment today.

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Are White Fillings for Baby Teeth Necessary?

Many parents assume that fillings in baby teeth aren’t necessary for their child. After all, baby teeth will eventually fall out and permanent teeth will arrive in place of them, right? So what’s the big deal?

White fillings, otherwise known as “Resin” fillings are a popular method for treating decay or enamel fractures in baby teeth because they have the look and feel of real teeth, have the safety and efficacy approval of the FDA, and are long-lasting.

The truth is, the health of baby teeth can determine the health of their permanent replacements. Treating decay now will prevent serious issues later. Keep reading to find out why fillings in baby teeth can be a crucial first step in helping your child develop a healthy smile well into adulthood.

Why Fix Baby Teeth?

There are several reasons to fix baby teeth. According to the CDC, leaving decayed or damaged baby teeth untreated can also increase the risks of:

Oral infections
Speech problems
Issues with eating and digestion
Severe pain
Difficulty learning and/or focusing in school

What is a resin filling?

Resin fillings are a dental composite made from ceramic acrylic (the same material used to make grandpa’s dentures), and protected by other ceramic particles such as glass or quartz. Patients prefer these fillings over the silver amalgam alternative used in traditional dentistry because they can accurately imitate the color and appearance of tooth enamel making them more aesthetically pleasing.

When Do We Use Resin Fillings?

Resin fillings in baby teeth can help treat decay or enamel fractures that are small to medium in size. When a larger restoration is needed, your child’s dentist may recommend stainless steel crowns as a better option.

If your child has baby teeth that have cracked, broken, or decayed, it can lead to space loss and result in their permanent teeth growing crooked or in the wrong place. When a cavity is left untreated for example, the damage can cause a dental infection which may ultimately lead to a gum boil or even worse, a malformation in the enamel of the newly emerging adult tooth.

At Sprout Kids Dentistry, we can assess the extent of your child’s dental decay or broken teeth and provide expert recommendations to help determine what the best treatment options are. Whether it’s a white resin filling, a stainless steel crown, or a different treatment option, evaluating the risks and benefits is very important.

Advantages of Resin Fillings

White fillings are becoming increasingly popular in pediatric dentistry for several reasons:

They provide a perfect color match for natural teeth
Resin fillings are durable and can last anywhere from 1-7 years
Sometimes they can be used to correct minor enamel imperfections or enamel fractures
There is a reduced risk of fillings coming out
Resin isn’t prone to expansion like other materials

Disadvantages of Resin Fillings

Though resin fillings are generally a great option, they aren’t suitable for every patient. Some disadvantages include:

They last approximately half as long as silver amalgam fillings
They’re more expensive than other types of fillings
Placing resin fillings in teeth is a longer process
This type of filling can only be used to repair small or moderately sized cavities

How Long Do Fillings Last?

Resin fillings will not last as long as silver amalgam fillings. A white filling will last an average of 2-7 years. With proper care, they may last ten years or longer. Every child is different, however, and the lifespan of resin feelings will depend on several factors, including the following:

Oral hygiene
Diet
Genetics
The patient’s overall health

Are Resin Fillings Safe?

It’s natural for parents to worry about the safety of resin fillings. Fillings have been the subject of controversy over the years, especially regarding the safety of amalgam fillings.

While amalgam fillings developed a bad reputation because they contain trace amounts of mercury, the debate around resin fillings has to do with the Bisphenol A component found in plastics and resins (BPA). Concerns are largely related to whether BPA leaks into the body and potentially accumulates in fatty tissue.

To address concerns, Sprout Kids Dentistry uses Beautifil Kids SA made by Shofu, and Grandeo SO made by Voco. These are BPA-free composite resins for white-filling procedures and sealants.

Composite Resin Fillings Procedure

Receiving resin fillings is a fairly simple process that can be completed in one visit. There are a few steps to expect during an hour-long appointment for white fillings at Sprout Kids Dentistry.

Step One: Selecting a Shade

The first thing a dentist will do when considering a resin filling procedure is determine which color will match your child’s teeth best.

Step Two: Anesthesia

The next step is to give an injection of Novocaine to numb the area around the decayed tooth. This will ensure the procedure is painless.

Step Three: Removing Decay

If the patient needs a filling due to a cavity, your Sprout Kids dentist will remove the decayed part of the tooth that has been damaged.

Step Four: Cleaning and Drying

After removing any existing decay, the dentist will ensure the tooth is clean and dry before placing the filling. Moisture prevents proper bonding to the tooth, so this is a very important step. If the patient requires tooth shaving, this will be done during this step as well.

Step Five: Dental Bonding

Bonding refers to the process of repairing cracks or fractured enamel. This includes repairing medium-sized chips.

Step Six: Layering Resin Material

After the tooth has been cleaned, dried, and bonded, the next step is to begin the process of layering the white filling material. This entails using a curing light to allow the white filling material to set.

Step Seven: Shaping and Polishing

The final step is for the dentist to shape, contour, and polish each repaired tooth to ensure a perfect look and bite.

Keep Your Child’s Smile Happy and Healthy with Sprout Kids Dentistry

Going to the dentist should be a safe and comfortable experience for children, especially when they’re getting something done to their teeth like fillings. If you’re looking for the right dentist in the Boston area to help your child relax during dental work, look no further than Sprout Kids Dentistry. Schedule a consultation with us today by filling out our online contact form so we can help your little one get their oral health back on track!

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Making Kids Dentistry Fun: How to Help Your Child Enjoy Their Trips to the Dentist

Dental anxiety isn’t uncommon, especially among children. After all, if they believe that they might have a negative experience, have gone to a dentist who didn’t take proper care to make the experience enjoyable, or have had to undergo a significant procedure that scared them, it’s reasonable to carry that anxiety to future appointments. The good news? No matter your child’s reason for being afraid or anxious, you can make their trips to the dentist more enjoyable and even get them excited to go. Here are a few tips to help make kids’ dentistry a bit more fun so your child can feel more at ease when it comes time for future appointments.

1. Ask for a Tour of the Office

Going on a tour of the office to meet everyone and see everything there is to see can make your child feel more at ease when they go to the dentist. Ask your dentist for a tour during your child’s first appointment to help them settle in.

2. Introduce Them to Dentistry at Home

While you obviously won’t have the same tools as your dentist will, playing pretend dentist with your child can help them get used to the process and make it feel more like a game when they do have an appointment. There are likely even play sets that feature dentist equipment that make realistic noises, which can make children feel more used to the sounds rather than shocked by them.

3. Take Your Child to the Dentist As Soon As Possible

Some parents may be surprised that their child should be going to the dentist at the age of one or sooner. This is because it allows the dentist to carefully monitor their progress and identify any behaviors that could damage or shift their teeth as they’re coming in. The sooner you take them and get them used to the dentist, the better.

4. Make Going to the Dentist an Event

Kids love activities, so making a trip to the dentist an event can make the whole appointment much more enjoyable for a child. This may include playing dentist-related games before going, having a fun drive, or doing something fun after the appointment, so they’ll grow to expect that and associate the dentist with fun.

5. Actively Work With Your Dentist for Better Results

Does your dentist tell you that your child was scared or anxious? Work with them to find solutions. For example, you may recommend that your dentist demonstrate how tools work (tell-show-do), or even give your child a choice over the flavor of toothpaste used for cleanings, or you may consider bringing your toothbrush and toothpaste from home.

Make Dentistry Fun With Sprout Kids Dentistry

Are you looking for experts offering pediatric dentistry in Boston that emphasize better oral health and a more comfortable dental experience for children? Sprout Kids Dentistry in Quincy, Massachusetts, is here to make your child’s dental appointments less scary and more exciting with a collaborative, playful, comfortable approach. Please schedule an appointment with us today!

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The 3 Most Important Ages for Kids to Visit the Dentist

As a parent, your child’s health is your number one priority. While doctor’s visits are something you’re not unfamiliar with, you might be wondering when you should be taking your child to the dentist. This is an excellent question, and there are a few key ages where dentist visits are vital. If you’re looking to establish a strong foundation for your child’s dental health, let’s walk through the three most important ages for kids to visit the dentist so that you can keep your little ones on track.

When Should Your Child Visit the Dentist? Start at Age 1

Kids dentistry should be a focus for parents when children are as young as one year old. This is the age when baby teeth start to come in and make an appearance, and visiting a dentist can help you learn more about their development and the current state of their teeth. There are also numerous activities and behaviors regarding oral health that parents have questions about, including teething, thumb-sucking, and beyond. A dentist visit gives you the support and insight you need to properly care for your child’s oral health.

Schedule Another Visit at Age 4

As your child starts to learn how to care for their teeth, there may still be times when they slip up. Taking them to the dentist at age four can ensure that they don’t have any cavities or if they do, give them the care and treatment they need. If they carry over any bad habits from early childhood that are affecting their teeth, this is also an excellent time to learn how to deter these behaviors for better oral health.

Their Next Crucial Milestone Will be Age 7

As permanent teeth start coming in and your child begins developing the smile that they’ll carry into their teenage years and adulthood, it’s important to assess their smile to see how teeth are aligning and if there are any malocclusions. Many parents may think that seeing a dentist and a specialist like an orthodontist is only to improve the cosmetic look of a smile. However, bites that aren’t quite aligned and teeth that are coming in and causing issues can cause discomfort and make it harder for children to lead their best lives. Visiting a dentist at seven years old can ensure that there are no issues that need to be addressed at that age.

Get the Care Your Child Deserves at Sprout Kids Dentistry

If you’re a parent looking for the best pediatric dentistry near Boston to help your child keep their oral health in great shape, start here with Sprout Kids Dentistry. We don’t just emphasize quality care but also provide your child with a fun, safe space where they can feel comfortable getting the dental care and support they need. Schedule an appointment with us today to see where they’re at and learn more about how to support them moving forward!

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Meltdown at the Dentist: Ways to Help Dental Anxiety in Kids

Few people can say that they enjoy going to the dentist, but, as adults, we all know it’s important for our oral health. For children going to the dentist can be a fearful experience, especially if they cannot comprehend just how important these visits are. To help ensure their teeth stay healthy, there are ways to deal with their anxiety and make them feel more comfortable about preventative care appointments.

What causes children to have anxiety at the dentist?

It’s common for young children to have anxiety when visiting a medical office, especially a dentist. The reason depends on a few different factors and varies with each child. Here are some of the more common reasons children might be afraid of going to the dentist.

Painful procedures

One of the biggest reasons your child may experience anxiety when receiving dental care is because of a past procedure they may have had that caused them pain. Children don’t like pain, and when they experience it during a dental procedure, they’re likely to connect that pain with the dentist themselves. This causes them anxiety when visiting a dental office because they’re afraid of experiencing more pain, even if it’s only a normal exam.

Sensory issues

Some children deal with sensory issues like being scared, triggered, or overwhelmed by certain sounds, smells, and sometimes the feeling of certain materials, like gauze. The sounds that could trigger their anxiety include the drilling and noises made by other patients in the office getting painful procedures done. We offer compassionate and specialized care for our special needs patients who may have a particularly high level of anxiety when attending dental appointments.

Tips to help ease their anxiety at the dentist

Children will need to continue seeing their dentist to keep their teeth healthy, so it is important that they reach a stage where they are comfortable going in for these visits. If the child has anxiety, there are ways to help relieve their fears, so the dentist can still perform an exam without causing trauma to the child.

Discuss what they can expect at an upcoming visit

To help ease anxiety, you can discuss with your child what the visit might be like. Give them a comprehensive overview of the appointment from the moment you check in, to the moment you leave. Reiterate this process to them a few times before the visit, starting at least a week prior. This allows the child to process their fears and to ask questions regarding the appointment. By the time the visit comes, they should be less fearful than if you were to spring it on them at the last second.

Stick to regular dental visits and promote good oral hygiene

You’ll want to make sure you continue to take your child to each of their routine dental appointments to help them become acquainted with the dentist, dental hygienist, and all the other staff. You should begin taking them by the time they reach one year of age, or when their first tooth appears. Infant oral care can get them comfortable with oral hygiene as they get older. Also, consider offering positive reinforcement as an incentive to go to the dentist. Allow them to be nervous, but offer some kind of prize for their bravery and to help them see that going to the visit isn’t all that bad.

Help your child establish good brushing routines every day. This way they’ll keep their teeth strong, which will help keep them from having to have some of the more uncomfortable procedures down the road, which would otherwise cause anxiety.

Choose the right dentist for your child

Not all those in kids’ dentistry are made the same. You’ll want to make sure the one you’re interested in checking out is the right one for your child. In this case, you’ll want one that specializes in children of all ages, which you can find here at Sprout Kids Dentistry, a pediatric dentistry in Boston MA.

Schedule a Consultation

To help alleviate your child’s fears of the dentist’s office schedule a consultation with us and get to know our staff. Dr. Anderson, our clinic’s dentist is board-certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and knows exactly how to work with children to alleviate their fears. Contact us today for any questions you may have.

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How Do Dental Sealants Prevent Cavities?

Dental tartar and plaques often hide where toothbrush bristles cannot reach. If your child has had many cavities or is struggling with brushing their molars well, our team may recommend dental sealants. Dental sealants are a clear, BPA-free resin coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. This sealant reduces the plaque’s ability to accumulate. Overall, dental sealants can offer a lot of benefits. We’ve taken the time to outline the benefits below.

Seals Chewing Surfaces

While you may reinforce teeth brushing in your home, your child may still struggle to clean their back teeth, which can sometimes be hard to reach. Sealing the molars can help with this issue, reducing the risk for cavities.

Reduces Nooks and Crannies for Plaque

Dental plaque loves to eat starch and sugar that is left behind on your child’s teeth. If your child is not brushing away the plaque on their molars, plaque can erode tooth enamel and lead to cavities. Dental sealants cover the pits and fissures that plaque likes to hide in.

Protects Tooth Enamel

Once enamel is eroded, it is gone for good. This is why it is very important for your child to brush and floss daily. Dental sealants can offer an extra layer of protection to your child’s teeth. Sealants are recommended as soon as the permanent molars erupt, around the age of six. A child’s second set of permanent molars will erupt around the age of 12, which will need sealants as well.

The Sealant Process is Quick and Painless

The process of applying dental sealants is a simple one. First, the teeth are cleaned and prepared with a conditioner. The sealant is then applied to the teeth, which hardens for 1-2 minutes using a curing light. Sealants can last one to two years before they should be reapplied due to the regular wear and tear of chewing.

Sealants can Save You Money

While sealants are a quick and easy solution for protecting a child’s teeth, they are also more cost-effective than dental restorations. Preventing the need for cavity treatment makes sealants a fantastic preventative choice for children.

Request a Consultation

Overall, sealants are a great way to help keep cavities at bay. If you are interested in getting sealants for your child’s teeth, we can help! Contact Sprout Kids Dentistry near Boston, MA today to schedule an appointment.

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Celebrate World Smile Day with Healthy Teeth and Gums

World Smile Day is celebrated every year on the first Friday of October. The intention of the holiday is to spread joy and positivity to others and to see your loved ones’ faces light up with happiness. World Smile Day is also a great opportunity to check in on your dental hygiene and make sure your smile is as bright and healthy as possible.

The History of World Smile Day

World Smile Day is closely connected to the classic “smiley face” image of a yellow circle with a simple happy face. This image was created by graphic designer Harvey Ball in 1963 for a campaign for State Mutual Life Assurance Company. Ball drew the design in only 10 minutes, but its cultural impact was enormous.

By the 1970s, the yellow smiley face could be seen everywhere. It appeared on stickers, buttons, shirts, signs, and a wide range of other products. Some artists also used the smiley face in a more cynical or subversive manner. However, Harvey Ball did not appreciate the commercialization of his design. He launched a campaign to restore the original intent of the smiley face, which was to spread happiness and goodwill. As a result, World Smile Day became an official international holiday in 1999.

How to Celebrate World Smile Day

World Smile Day is all about bringing joy and positivity to others. Here are some ways you and your family can celebrate the holiday this year:

Perform Acts of Kindness

One of the best ways to make people smile is to perform random acts of kindness. On World Smile Day, you could set a goal to complete as many kind acts as possible. For instance, you could rake your neighbor’s lawn or buy coffee for the person in line behind you. Volunteering your time or donating to your favorite charity are also great ways to spread happiness.

Spend Time With Loved Ones

Spending quality time with the people you love can always bring a smile to your face. You can celebrate World Smile Day by visiting a family member, calling a friend, or hosting a get-together at your home.

Maintain a Healthy Smile

When your smile is bright and clean, you’ll be even more excited to show it off. You can get a healthy smile for World Smile Day by maintaining good brushing and flossing habits. Dentists recommend brushing with a soft-bristled brush twice per day for two minutes. You’ll also want to floss once per day.

World Smile Day is also an excellent opportunity to teach your kids about the importance of oral hygiene. Learning to care for your teeth and gums at a young age is the key to achieving lifelong dental health.

Schedule A Consultation

Regular checkups and cleanings are essential for your children’s oral health, and our team at Sprout Kids Dentistry is committed to making the experience fun, collaborative, and educational. If you’re looking for pediatric dentistry in Boston, schedule a consultation today with Dr. Anderson. Call our Quincy, MA office at 617-934-6339 or use our online contact form.

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When to Begin Orthodontic Evaluation for Kids

At some point, while your children are aging, you will want to take care of their oral health, whether that requires trips to the dentist or even orthodontic evaluations. You may wonder if there is a suitable age to start orthodontic treatment. We look forward to treating your child’s dental issues at Sprout Kids Dentistry.

The Importance of Orthodontic Evaluation

Wanting your children to be healthy is a common goal for many parents. Although treatments can look different from child to child, an orthodontic evaluation is vital because it determines a plan and addresses concerns before they are visible to you. Not all children need early orthodontic treatment, but an appointment can evaluate and identify potential issues.

What Age Should I Schedule an Orthodontic Evaluation?

You may have noticed people of all ages wearing braces. Although this is common, the best time to start orthodontic care is between the ages of seven and ten. Early orthodontic treatment can intercept and identify issues before your child’s baby teeth even fall out.

Your Child’s Orthodontic Evaluation

Children should go to a dentist regularly before visiting an orthodontist. It is recommended that children have an orthodontic evaluation by age seven by the American Association of Orthodontists. Early evaluation can diminish the need for extensive orthodontic treatments later in life. Early evaluation can identify and treat oral problems before more significant issues occur.

The Best Age to Get Braces

The most common age for braces is between 11 and 14 years old. This is when children lose most of their baby teeth. Some specialists will recommend using dental appliances to begin, followed by a shorter second phase of treatment with braces.

Phases of Orthodontic Treatment

Early orthodontic treatment can utilize palate expanders, space maintainers, and fixed or removable dental appliances. These treatments can occur in both dental phases.

Phase 1

Phase one can begin when children still have their baby teeth. Interceptive care during this phase can address many orthodontic issues, including underbite, overbite, crossbite, capped teeth, and an abnormal number of teeth.

Phase 2

Phase two begins when your child has all their adult teeth. This phase is also referred to as full orthodontic treatment. This phase can include braces and teeth aligners.

Schedule a Consultation

Dr. Anderson is board-certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. At Sprout Kids Dentistry, your skilled pediatric dentists strive to give you worry-free dental visits for your children. If you are interested in pediatric dentistry in Boston, contact us to schedule a consultation with Sprout Kids Dentistry today.

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5 Reasons to Schedule Your Child’s Back to School Dental Appointment Now

Back to school is a busy time as you get your children ready for the coming school year. A new year of classes and lessons often means new school supplies, clothes, and shoes, so it’s easy to neglect scheduling dental appointments. However, these visits are crucial to keeping your kids’ teeth ready for the school year.

Let’s take a look at five reasons you need to schedule your child’s dentist appointment before they head back to school.

Everyone Is Busy

Kids’ dentistry can be easier to arrange during the summer. Dental offices that offer pediatric dentistry in Boston usually have a slowdown in appointments while families are on vacation. That can lead to a rush of appointments at the end of summer, so it’s a good idea to schedule a routine check-up as soon as you can before everyone else tries to do so at the last minute.

Keeping Kids in School

Your children might love the idea of missing school, even if it means visiting the dentist. But keeping them in school is always a better alternative than disrupting the day with dental appointments. Getting them into the dentist before school starts up again ensures they stay in class once it is back in session. If possible, schedule their six-month check-ups during their summer and winter vacations.

Current Dental Records Are Important

Many school districts require families to provide copies of both medical and dental records before students can attend classes. Even if your kid’s school doesn’t do this, it’s a great idea to keep current on the medical and dental treatments your child might need to keep them strong and healthy. Whether it’s their first visit or they’ve been coming to us for years, it’s important to stay up to date with their oral health.

Healthy Mouths Mean Healthy Minds

The quality of a person’s dental health directly impacts their risk level for a variety of other medical conditions. Help your child avoid potential complications, like cavities, by maintaining their schedule of dental cleanings at six-month intervals.

We Want To See You

Our dentists love helping kids get ready for the new school year, and we want to catch up with you. We truly enjoy seeing how much your kids have grown since we saw them last, and we want to help them keep learning how important healthy teeth and gums are. Schedule your kid’s next appointment to give us a chance to make sure your family’s dental health is ready for the coming year.

Services We Provide at Sprouts Kids Dentistry

No matter when you come and visit us, you can be sure your child will get the best quality treatment they need to ensure their oral healthcare. Some of the treatments and services we offer include:

Schedule Your Kid’s Back-to-School Appointment Now

Having your child see their dentist ensures their mouth stays healthy through their younger years, and a happy smile can boost their confidence during the challenges of growing up. Schedule your family’s appointment with us at Sprout Kids Dentistry today. Whether you’re a returning family or new to our practice, we’re here to help your kids enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles.

To schedule an appointment, call our Quincy, MA office at 617-934-6339 or use our online contact form.

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