Happy Smile Pediatric Dentistry, PC

Did you know that the mouthguard was invented in 1890? Woolf Krause, a London dentist, developed what he called a gum shield made of cotton, tape, sponge and small pieces of wood to protect boxers from lip lacerations and mouth injuries.

Children often suck their thumb for comfort in stressful situations, or to deal with anxiety. Thumb sucking usually persists from ages 2 4, but can last longer. If you’re worried about your child’s thumb sucking habit, try positive reinforcement to help them kick the habit. If it persists, visit our office for more advice. #DentalFAQ

Some families limit candy to a certain number of pieces every day, while others allow a "free-for-all" for a few of days after Halloween. Whatever you decide, make sure your kids are brushing for 2 minutes, twice every day! Does your family have any candy rules? #CandyRules #ToothLove

As your child gets older, it is alright to start slowly giving them sugary foods. To keep sugar-related cavities at bay, make sure that they finish sugary treats quickly, and that they rinse their mouth out with cool water after they’re done. Limit candy, and only fill sippy cups with water to limit the time that sugar contacts their teeth. #ToothLove

Some people discount the importance of baby teeth since they are temporary. However, baby teeth are vital in developing a properly structured smile in adulthood. If a baby tooth is lost too soon, it can lead to crowding of adult teeth, which can negatively affect bite alignment. The bottom line is that you should care for your child’s baby teeth as if they were adult teeth to help them get a healthy smile that lasts into adulthood. #DentalFAQ

Everybody loves sweets, but sugar is bad for teeth and it can lead to plaque buildup and cavities. But don’t let the bad side of sugar get you down. You can replace sugar with a natural sweetener called Xylitol, which can actually reduce plaque and reduce enamel-attacking acid! #DentalFAQ #DentalScience

Canker sores are small, red spots or bumps that can appear on the inside of your mouth. They can be sensitive and cause a burning or tingling sensation. There is no cure for canker sores, but they usually heal in 7 10 days. Call us if you have a canker sore that lasts more than 2 weeks, since it may be a more serious issue. #DentalFAQ

It can be hard to choose a mouthwash, but it doesn’t have to be! Start with your goals: If you want to help prevent tooth decay, get a mouthwash that contains fluoride. If you want to get fresh breath, choose a cosmetic mouthwash that fights bad breath. If you want to prevent gingivitis, look for an anti-plaque or anti-gingivitis rinse. Before buying your mouthwash, be sure to look for the ADA seal of approval so that you know the claims on the bottle have been tested and verified. #DentalFAQ

Did you know that the tooth fairy is an American icon, and doesn’t really travel outside of the United States? However, she is a distant cousin to La Petite Souris, the French mouse who has traded money for lost teeth since the 17th century. #ToothFairyTuesday

A sippy cup is a great way to give your child a bit more independence as they get older, and gain dexterity in their hands. But, be careful about what you serve them! Help keep cavities at bay by only filling their sippy cup with water, and not sugary fruit juice. If you must give them juice, dilute it with water to keep their sugar intake down. #DentalFAQ

It’s important to keep your tooth brush where it can get the least amount of bathroom germs possible (Yuck!). The best place to store your toothbrush is in a cabinet, upright. Or, in a closed area where it can dry without touching other brushes or being exposed to micro-particulates from the toilet. #dentalFAQ

During the first few years, thumb sucking or pacifier habits probably won't do any damage. But if the habit persists after baby teeth are falling out it can cause problems. One approach for breaking the habit is to talk about eliminating pacifiers with your child for 3 days before it happens. Give her several reminders so that she has time to mentally prepare herself and then be sympathetic, but firm when the day comes. Which ways have you found successful for eliminating the pacifier habit?

Looking for after school snack ideas? Keep it simple! An apple with some peanut butter is a dental friendly snack that will fill them up until dinner time. We give it a thumbs up because its low in sugar, the kids like it because it tastes great. Sprinkle some granola on top to add a salty crunch!