Frequently Asked Pediatric Dental Questions – Chesterfield, MO
Get Your Questions About Pediatric Oral Health Answered
Do you have questions about your child’s oral health and how it can be improved? Our dental staff is always trying to find new ways to keep parents informed about handy oral hygiene tricks, cool new children’s oral health products, and helpful preventive treatments we offer. Below, we’ve compiled some of the most commonly asked questions that we get from parents so you can get the answers you need. If you don’t see yours listed, don’t hesitate to contact our dental office!
When should my child first visit their dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends taking your child in for their first dental appointment by the time their first tooth has grown in, or by their first birthday. This visit is primarily to make sure that their mouth is developing properly and to help get them acclimated to our dental office and staff. In addition, parents are given proper home oral hygiene instructions for their little one.
How do I brush my baby’s teeth?
Baby teeth can accumulate plaque and tartar at any age, which is why it’s important to brush them every day. Contact our dental office to learn about recommendations and helpful tips.
How is a pediatric dentist different from a family dentist?
After dental school, a Pediatric dentist like Dr. Sedighi has undergone several additional years of advanced Pediatric dentistry education and training to understand how children’s teeth develop and change. This allows them to know what oral problems to look out for among infants, children, and teens, as well as help children feel comfortable and at-ease while visiting their dental office.
Should I discourage my child from sucking their thumb?
Thumb-sucking and using a pacifier are completely natural, calming coping mechanisms that most children use. As they get older and their teeth begin growing in, the pressure of constant thumb-sucking can alter their dental structure and the alignment of their permanent teeth. That’s why we recommend beginning to ween them off of this habit as their maturity allows.
Are dental X-rays safe for children?
In the past, film X-rays had a much higher radiation exposure, which made them more dangerous for children. Dr. Sedighi uses all-digital X-rays that reduce the exposure to radiation by up to 90 percent, Dr. Sedighi is the first Pediatric dentist in St. Louis to utilize digital x-rays.
Is nitrous oxide safe for children?
Nitrous oxide is safe for children as long as it’s administered by a trained professional, like Dr. Sedighi. It can help your child remain calm and relaxed throughout their appointment, allowing our team to work quickly and effectively, so they don’t have to remain in the treatment chair for long periods of time.