Children's Dental Health of West Philadelphia

Thumb sucking is a normal habit for many children. Its peak occurrence is at about age two and it can be an important source of pleasure for an infant or toddler. This habit is usually nothing to worry about since your child will usually outgrow the habit. However, if they continue to suck their thumb past age 4, dental problems such as malocclusion may occur.

There are many different factors that can cause tooth discoloration. An abnormally colored tooth is anything other than the yellowish-white to the white color of normal teeth. The factors that contribute to tooth color include congenital conditions, genetics, infections, and environmental factors. Abnormal color and shape may be caused by a malfunction in body processes. Some of these factors can influence the way your child’s enamel is formed, while others simply stain the enamel. Teeth may be uniformly discolored or it may appear as spots or lines in enamel. In addition, discolored areas may have a different density and porosity than normal enamel. The color and hardness of enamel can also be affected by drugs or medications taken by either the child during the time of tooth development or by the mother while pregnant.

X-rays help dentists make sure your child’s teeth and jaw are healthy and properly aligned, can help identify if there are any cavities that they are not able to clinically see.

Even children’s sports involve contact, and we recommend mouthguards for children active in sports. If your little one plays baseball, soccer, or other sports, ask your dentist about having a custom-fitted mouthguard made to protect their teeth, lips, cheeks, and gums.

Start flossing your child's teeth when you notice their teeth touching. Floss your child's teeth for them until they are old enough to do so themselves, which usually happens by age six or seven. It is recommended that parents should still help and supervise with flossing until the age of ten.

Sit your child on your lap, facing away from you. Cup their chin with one hand, with their head resting against your body. Brush teeth and along the gum line. Brush gently in small circles. Clean every tooth thoroughly and brush the inside, outside and chewing surfaces of teeth.

It is recommended to schedule dental cleanings and checkups every six months.

The American Dental Association recommends dental checkups be scheduled by their first birthday or by the age of 1 year old.

Choose a child’s toothbrush with a small head and soft bristles. You can choose a manual or electric toothbrush.

Pediatric dentists continue their education with several years of additional, specialized training and have extensive knowledge and experience in treating infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatric dentists have expertise in childhood development and behavior. Pediatric offices are geared toward young visitors, you’ll find that the staff, as well as the office design, decorations, and activities.

Replace your child’s toothbrush every 3-4 months or when your child is sick.

Sealants cover the pits and fissures in teeth that are difficult to brush and therefore susceptible to cavities. Dental sealants are a safe, simple way to help your child avoid cavities, especially for molars, which are hardest to reach.

We accept most major insurance carriers including CHIP and Medicaid. We also have cash-pay programs for patients without dental insurance. You can find a full list of insurances we accept on our website.

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