(408) 746-3770 | 333 W. El Camino Real, Suite 110, Sunnyvale, CA 94087

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Fluoride is a mineral that is naturally present in many foods and water. Routine use of a small amount of fluoride can help prevent tooth decay by strengthening the outside layer of the teeth. Fluoride also affects cavity-causing bacteria by discouraging acid attacks that break down the tooth.
Using fluoride for the prevention and control of decay is proven to be both safe and effective. However, excessive fluoride ingestion by preschool-aged children can lead to dental fluorosis, which is a chalky white to even brown discoloration of the permanent teeth.
Our pediatric dentist considers many factors before recommending fluoride supplement. Your child’s age, risk of developing dental decay and dietary sources of fluoride are all important considerations. We can help determine if your child is receiving – and not exceeding – the recommended amount. Please consult Dr. Kao at your visit with us.
Category: PreventionHealthy eating habits lead to healthy teeth. Like the rest of the body, the teeth, bones and the soft tissues of the mouth need a well-balanced diet. A balanced diet is one that includes the following major food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, beans and milk. Most snacks that children eat can cause cavity formation. The more frequently a child snacks, the greater the chance for tooth decays. And the longer the food remains in the mouth, the higher the risk for the teeth to become weaker. Do not nurse a young child to sleep or put him to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, juice or sweetened liquid. Residual liquid in the mouth feeds bacteria that produce acids and attack the teeth while your child sleeps. Protect your child from severe tooth decay by putting him to bed with nothing more than a pacifier or bottle of water.
Simple tips for your child’s diet and dental health
1. Ask your pediatric dentist to help assess your child’s diet.
2. Shop smart! Do not routinely stock your pantry with sugary or starchy snacks. Reserve fun foods for special
occasions.
3. Limit frequency of snacks; choose nutritious snacks.
4. Provide a balanced diet.
5. Do not put young child to bed with a bottle of milk, formula or juice.
6. If your child chews gum or sips soda, choose those without sugar.Category: PreventionThe American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental check-up at least twice a year for most children. Children with increased risk for tooth decay, unusual growth patterns or poor oral hygiene may require more frequent visits.
At First Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that prevention is the foundation of good health. Though dental appointments can sometimes involve tooth decay treatment, it is not the only reason for a dental visit. During a routine visit, we will gently examine your child’s teeth, oral tissues and jaws. The teeth will be cleaned and polished, followed by the application of fluoride. Through our continual assessment, we may suggest additional fluoride use, dietary changes or sealants for ideal dental health. The pediatric dentist may identify orthodontic problems and suggest treatment to guide the teeth as they emerge in the mouth.
Much like your child’s annual visit to the pediatrician, regular dental visits allow for prevention and early detection of any oral diseases and can reduce major dental problems and expensive treatments in the future.
Category: PreventionFour “ingredients” are necessary for cavity formation: a tooth, bacteria, sugar/other carbohydrates and time. To prevent tooth decay, it is very important for you to be mindful of when and what your child eats. Dietary habits that can increase the risk of cavities include:
• Excessive sugary foods, especially between meals
• Sugary drinks, including fruit juices, sports drinks, and flavored soy and cow’s milk, especially between meals
• Between meals snacks, especially starchy (cracker, chips, etc) and sugary (candy, cookies, dried fruit) foodsBest snacks include fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, milk (unsweetened), and water. In addition to healthy eating habits, thorough daily brushing and flossing can keep bacteria from forming harmful colonies. Remember, dental decay is an infection of the tooth. Routine dental checkup can greatly reduce and prevent cavities and dental treatments.
Category: Prevention -
Fluoride is a mineral that is naturally present in many foods and water. Routine use of a small amount of fluoride can help prevent tooth decay by strengthening the outside layer of the teeth. Fluoride also affects cavity-causing bacteria by discouraging acid attacks that break down the tooth.
Using fluoride for the prevention and control of decay is proven to be both safe and effective. However, excessive fluoride ingestion by preschool-aged children can lead to dental fluorosis, which is a chalky white to even brown discoloration of the permanent teeth.
Our pediatric dentist considers many factors before recommending fluoride supplement. Your child’s age, risk of developing dental decay and dietary sources of fluoride are all important considerations. We can help determine if your child is receiving – and not exceeding – the recommended amount. Please consult Dr. Kao at your visit with us.
Category: PreventionHealthy eating habits lead to healthy teeth. Like the rest of the body, the teeth, bones and the soft tissues of the mouth need a well-balanced diet. A balanced diet is one that includes the following major food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, beans and milk. Most snacks that children eat can cause cavity formation. The more frequently a child snacks, the greater the chance for tooth decays. And the longer the food remains in the mouth, the higher the risk for the teeth to become weaker. Do not nurse a young child to sleep or put him to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, juice or sweetened liquid. Residual liquid in the mouth feeds bacteria that produce acids and attack the teeth while your child sleeps. Protect your child from severe tooth decay by putting him to bed with nothing more than a pacifier or bottle of water.
Simple tips for your child’s diet and dental health
1. Ask your pediatric dentist to help assess your child’s diet.
2. Shop smart! Do not routinely stock your pantry with sugary or starchy snacks. Reserve fun foods for special
occasions.
3. Limit frequency of snacks; choose nutritious snacks.
4. Provide a balanced diet.
5. Do not put young child to bed with a bottle of milk, formula or juice.
6. If your child chews gum or sips soda, choose those without sugar.Category: PreventionThe American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental check-up at least twice a year for most children. Children with increased risk for tooth decay, unusual growth patterns or poor oral hygiene may require more frequent visits.
At First Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that prevention is the foundation of good health. Though dental appointments can sometimes involve tooth decay treatment, it is not the only reason for a dental visit. During a routine visit, we will gently examine your child’s teeth, oral tissues and jaws. The teeth will be cleaned and polished, followed by the application of fluoride. Through our continual assessment, we may suggest additional fluoride use, dietary changes or sealants for ideal dental health. The pediatric dentist may identify orthodontic problems and suggest treatment to guide the teeth as they emerge in the mouth.
Much like your child’s annual visit to the pediatrician, regular dental visits allow for prevention and early detection of any oral diseases and can reduce major dental problems and expensive treatments in the future.
Category: PreventionFour “ingredients” are necessary for cavity formation: a tooth, bacteria, sugar/other carbohydrates and time. To prevent tooth decay, it is very important for you to be mindful of when and what your child eats. Dietary habits that can increase the risk of cavities include:
• Excessive sugary foods, especially between meals
• Sugary drinks, including fruit juices, sports drinks, and flavored soy and cow’s milk, especially between meals
• Between meals snacks, especially starchy (cracker, chips, etc) and sugary (candy, cookies, dried fruit) foodsBest snacks include fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, milk (unsweetened), and water. In addition to healthy eating habits, thorough daily brushing and flossing can keep bacteria from forming harmful colonies. Remember, dental decay is an infection of the tooth. Routine dental checkup can greatly reduce and prevent cavities and dental treatments.
Category: Prevention -
Fluoride is a mineral that is naturally present in many foods and water. Routine use of a small amount of fluoride can help prevent tooth decay by strengthening the outside layer of the teeth. Fluoride also affects cavity-causing bacteria by discouraging acid attacks that break down the tooth.
Using fluoride for the prevention and control of decay is proven to be both safe and effective. However, excessive fluoride ingestion by preschool-aged children can lead to dental fluorosis, which is a chalky white to even brown discoloration of the permanent teeth.
Our pediatric dentist considers many factors before recommending fluoride supplement. Your child’s age, risk of developing dental decay and dietary sources of fluoride are all important considerations. We can help determine if your child is receiving – and not exceeding – the recommended amount. Please consult Dr. Kao at your visit with us.
Category: PreventionHealthy eating habits lead to healthy teeth. Like the rest of the body, the teeth, bones and the soft tissues of the mouth need a well-balanced diet. A balanced diet is one that includes the following major food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, beans and milk. Most snacks that children eat can cause cavity formation. The more frequently a child snacks, the greater the chance for tooth decays. And the longer the food remains in the mouth, the higher the risk for the teeth to become weaker. Do not nurse a young child to sleep or put him to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, juice or sweetened liquid. Residual liquid in the mouth feeds bacteria that produce acids and attack the teeth while your child sleeps. Protect your child from severe tooth decay by putting him to bed with nothing more than a pacifier or bottle of water.
Simple tips for your child’s diet and dental health
1. Ask your pediatric dentist to help assess your child’s diet.
2. Shop smart! Do not routinely stock your pantry with sugary or starchy snacks. Reserve fun foods for special
occasions.
3. Limit frequency of snacks; choose nutritious snacks.
4. Provide a balanced diet.
5. Do not put young child to bed with a bottle of milk, formula or juice.
6. If your child chews gum or sips soda, choose those without sugar.Category: PreventionThe American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental check-up at least twice a year for most children. Children with increased risk for tooth decay, unusual growth patterns or poor oral hygiene may require more frequent visits.
At First Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that prevention is the foundation of good health. Though dental appointments can sometimes involve tooth decay treatment, it is not the only reason for a dental visit. During a routine visit, we will gently examine your child’s teeth, oral tissues and jaws. The teeth will be cleaned and polished, followed by the application of fluoride. Through our continual assessment, we may suggest additional fluoride use, dietary changes or sealants for ideal dental health. The pediatric dentist may identify orthodontic problems and suggest treatment to guide the teeth as they emerge in the mouth.
Much like your child’s annual visit to the pediatrician, regular dental visits allow for prevention and early detection of any oral diseases and can reduce major dental problems and expensive treatments in the future.
Category: PreventionFour “ingredients” are necessary for cavity formation: a tooth, bacteria, sugar/other carbohydrates and time. To prevent tooth decay, it is very important for you to be mindful of when and what your child eats. Dietary habits that can increase the risk of cavities include:
• Excessive sugary foods, especially between meals
• Sugary drinks, including fruit juices, sports drinks, and flavored soy and cow’s milk, especially between meals
• Between meals snacks, especially starchy (cracker, chips, etc) and sugary (candy, cookies, dried fruit) foodsBest snacks include fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, milk (unsweetened), and water. In addition to healthy eating habits, thorough daily brushing and flossing can keep bacteria from forming harmful colonies. Remember, dental decay is an infection of the tooth. Routine dental checkup can greatly reduce and prevent cavities and dental treatments.
Category: Prevention -
Fluoride is a mineral that is naturally present in many foods and water. Routine use of a small amount of fluoride can help prevent tooth decay by strengthening the outside layer of the teeth. Fluoride also affects cavity-causing bacteria by discouraging acid attacks that break down the tooth.
Using fluoride for the prevention and control of decay is proven to be both safe and effective. However, excessive fluoride ingestion by preschool-aged children can lead to dental fluorosis, which is a chalky white to even brown discoloration of the permanent teeth.
Our pediatric dentist considers many factors before recommending fluoride supplement. Your child’s age, risk of developing dental decay and dietary sources of fluoride are all important considerations. We can help determine if your child is receiving – and not exceeding – the recommended amount. Please consult Dr. Kao at your visit with us.
Category: PreventionHealthy eating habits lead to healthy teeth. Like the rest of the body, the teeth, bones and the soft tissues of the mouth need a well-balanced diet. A balanced diet is one that includes the following major food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, beans and milk. Most snacks that children eat can cause cavity formation. The more frequently a child snacks, the greater the chance for tooth decays. And the longer the food remains in the mouth, the higher the risk for the teeth to become weaker. Do not nurse a young child to sleep or put him to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, juice or sweetened liquid. Residual liquid in the mouth feeds bacteria that produce acids and attack the teeth while your child sleeps. Protect your child from severe tooth decay by putting him to bed with nothing more than a pacifier or bottle of water.
Simple tips for your child’s diet and dental health
1. Ask your pediatric dentist to help assess your child’s diet.
2. Shop smart! Do not routinely stock your pantry with sugary or starchy snacks. Reserve fun foods for special
occasions.
3. Limit frequency of snacks; choose nutritious snacks.
4. Provide a balanced diet.
5. Do not put young child to bed with a bottle of milk, formula or juice.
6. If your child chews gum or sips soda, choose those without sugar.Category: PreventionThe American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental check-up at least twice a year for most children. Children with increased risk for tooth decay, unusual growth patterns or poor oral hygiene may require more frequent visits.
At First Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that prevention is the foundation of good health. Though dental appointments can sometimes involve tooth decay treatment, it is not the only reason for a dental visit. During a routine visit, we will gently examine your child’s teeth, oral tissues and jaws. The teeth will be cleaned and polished, followed by the application of fluoride. Through our continual assessment, we may suggest additional fluoride use, dietary changes or sealants for ideal dental health. The pediatric dentist may identify orthodontic problems and suggest treatment to guide the teeth as they emerge in the mouth.
Much like your child’s annual visit to the pediatrician, regular dental visits allow for prevention and early detection of any oral diseases and can reduce major dental problems and expensive treatments in the future.
Category: PreventionFour “ingredients” are necessary for cavity formation: a tooth, bacteria, sugar/other carbohydrates and time. To prevent tooth decay, it is very important for you to be mindful of when and what your child eats. Dietary habits that can increase the risk of cavities include:
• Excessive sugary foods, especially between meals
• Sugary drinks, including fruit juices, sports drinks, and flavored soy and cow’s milk, especially between meals
• Between meals snacks, especially starchy (cracker, chips, etc) and sugary (candy, cookies, dried fruit) foodsBest snacks include fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, milk (unsweetened), and water. In addition to healthy eating habits, thorough daily brushing and flossing can keep bacteria from forming harmful colonies. Remember, dental decay is an infection of the tooth. Routine dental checkup can greatly reduce and prevent cavities and dental treatments.
Category: Prevention -
Fluoride is a mineral that is naturally present in many foods and water. Routine use of a small amount of fluoride can help prevent tooth decay by strengthening the outside layer of the teeth. Fluoride also affects cavity-causing bacteria by discouraging acid attacks that break down the tooth.
Using fluoride for the prevention and control of decay is proven to be both safe and effective. However, excessive fluoride ingestion by preschool-aged children can lead to dental fluorosis, which is a chalky white to even brown discoloration of the permanent teeth.
Our pediatric dentist considers many factors before recommending fluoride supplement. Your child’s age, risk of developing dental decay and dietary sources of fluoride are all important considerations. We can help determine if your child is receiving – and not exceeding – the recommended amount. Please consult Dr. Kao at your visit with us.
Category: PreventionHealthy eating habits lead to healthy teeth. Like the rest of the body, the teeth, bones and the soft tissues of the mouth need a well-balanced diet. A balanced diet is one that includes the following major food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, beans and milk. Most snacks that children eat can cause cavity formation. The more frequently a child snacks, the greater the chance for tooth decays. And the longer the food remains in the mouth, the higher the risk for the teeth to become weaker. Do not nurse a young child to sleep or put him to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, juice or sweetened liquid. Residual liquid in the mouth feeds bacteria that produce acids and attack the teeth while your child sleeps. Protect your child from severe tooth decay by putting him to bed with nothing more than a pacifier or bottle of water.
Simple tips for your child’s diet and dental health
1. Ask your pediatric dentist to help assess your child’s diet.
2. Shop smart! Do not routinely stock your pantry with sugary or starchy snacks. Reserve fun foods for special
occasions.
3. Limit frequency of snacks; choose nutritious snacks.
4. Provide a balanced diet.
5. Do not put young child to bed with a bottle of milk, formula or juice.
6. If your child chews gum or sips soda, choose those without sugar.Category: PreventionThe American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental check-up at least twice a year for most children. Children with increased risk for tooth decay, unusual growth patterns or poor oral hygiene may require more frequent visits.
At First Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that prevention is the foundation of good health. Though dental appointments can sometimes involve tooth decay treatment, it is not the only reason for a dental visit. During a routine visit, we will gently examine your child’s teeth, oral tissues and jaws. The teeth will be cleaned and polished, followed by the application of fluoride. Through our continual assessment, we may suggest additional fluoride use, dietary changes or sealants for ideal dental health. The pediatric dentist may identify orthodontic problems and suggest treatment to guide the teeth as they emerge in the mouth.
Much like your child’s annual visit to the pediatrician, regular dental visits allow for prevention and early detection of any oral diseases and can reduce major dental problems and expensive treatments in the future.
Category: PreventionFour “ingredients” are necessary for cavity formation: a tooth, bacteria, sugar/other carbohydrates and time. To prevent tooth decay, it is very important for you to be mindful of when and what your child eats. Dietary habits that can increase the risk of cavities include:
• Excessive sugary foods, especially between meals
• Sugary drinks, including fruit juices, sports drinks, and flavored soy and cow’s milk, especially between meals
• Between meals snacks, especially starchy (cracker, chips, etc) and sugary (candy, cookies, dried fruit) foodsBest snacks include fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, milk (unsweetened), and water. In addition to healthy eating habits, thorough daily brushing and flossing can keep bacteria from forming harmful colonies. Remember, dental decay is an infection of the tooth. Routine dental checkup can greatly reduce and prevent cavities and dental treatments.
Category: Prevention -
Fluoride is a mineral that is naturally present in many foods and water. Routine use of a small amount of fluoride can help prevent tooth decay by strengthening the outside layer of the teeth. Fluoride also affects cavity-causing bacteria by discouraging acid attacks that break down the tooth.
Using fluoride for the prevention and control of decay is proven to be both safe and effective. However, excessive fluoride ingestion by preschool-aged children can lead to dental fluorosis, which is a chalky white to even brown discoloration of the permanent teeth.
Our pediatric dentist considers many factors before recommending fluoride supplement. Your child’s age, risk of developing dental decay and dietary sources of fluoride are all important considerations. We can help determine if your child is receiving – and not exceeding – the recommended amount. Please consult Dr. Kao at your visit with us.
Category: PreventionHealthy eating habits lead to healthy teeth. Like the rest of the body, the teeth, bones and the soft tissues of the mouth need a well-balanced diet. A balanced diet is one that includes the following major food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, beans and milk. Most snacks that children eat can cause cavity formation. The more frequently a child snacks, the greater the chance for tooth decays. And the longer the food remains in the mouth, the higher the risk for the teeth to become weaker. Do not nurse a young child to sleep or put him to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, juice or sweetened liquid. Residual liquid in the mouth feeds bacteria that produce acids and attack the teeth while your child sleeps. Protect your child from severe tooth decay by putting him to bed with nothing more than a pacifier or bottle of water.
Simple tips for your child’s diet and dental health
1. Ask your pediatric dentist to help assess your child’s diet.
2. Shop smart! Do not routinely stock your pantry with sugary or starchy snacks. Reserve fun foods for special
occasions.
3. Limit frequency of snacks; choose nutritious snacks.
4. Provide a balanced diet.
5. Do not put young child to bed with a bottle of milk, formula or juice.
6. If your child chews gum or sips soda, choose those without sugar.Category: PreventionThe American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental check-up at least twice a year for most children. Children with increased risk for tooth decay, unusual growth patterns or poor oral hygiene may require more frequent visits.
At First Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that prevention is the foundation of good health. Though dental appointments can sometimes involve tooth decay treatment, it is not the only reason for a dental visit. During a routine visit, we will gently examine your child’s teeth, oral tissues and jaws. The teeth will be cleaned and polished, followed by the application of fluoride. Through our continual assessment, we may suggest additional fluoride use, dietary changes or sealants for ideal dental health. The pediatric dentist may identify orthodontic problems and suggest treatment to guide the teeth as they emerge in the mouth.
Much like your child’s annual visit to the pediatrician, regular dental visits allow for prevention and early detection of any oral diseases and can reduce major dental problems and expensive treatments in the future.
Category: PreventionFour “ingredients” are necessary for cavity formation: a tooth, bacteria, sugar/other carbohydrates and time. To prevent tooth decay, it is very important for you to be mindful of when and what your child eats. Dietary habits that can increase the risk of cavities include:
• Excessive sugary foods, especially between meals
• Sugary drinks, including fruit juices, sports drinks, and flavored soy and cow’s milk, especially between meals
• Between meals snacks, especially starchy (cracker, chips, etc) and sugary (candy, cookies, dried fruit) foodsBest snacks include fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, milk (unsweetened), and water. In addition to healthy eating habits, thorough daily brushing and flossing can keep bacteria from forming harmful colonies. Remember, dental decay is an infection of the tooth. Routine dental checkup can greatly reduce and prevent cavities and dental treatments.
Category: Prevention -
Fluoride is a mineral that is naturally present in many foods and water. Routine use of a small amount of fluoride can help prevent tooth decay by strengthening the outside layer of the teeth. Fluoride also affects cavity-causing bacteria by discouraging acid attacks that break down the tooth.
Using fluoride for the prevention and control of decay is proven to be both safe and effective. However, excessive fluoride ingestion by preschool-aged children can lead to dental fluorosis, which is a chalky white to even brown discoloration of the permanent teeth.
Our pediatric dentist considers many factors before recommending fluoride supplement. Your child’s age, risk of developing dental decay and dietary sources of fluoride are all important considerations. We can help determine if your child is receiving – and not exceeding – the recommended amount. Please consult Dr. Kao at your visit with us.
Category: PreventionHealthy eating habits lead to healthy teeth. Like the rest of the body, the teeth, bones and the soft tissues of the mouth need a well-balanced diet. A balanced diet is one that includes the following major food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, beans and milk. Most snacks that children eat can cause cavity formation. The more frequently a child snacks, the greater the chance for tooth decays. And the longer the food remains in the mouth, the higher the risk for the teeth to become weaker. Do not nurse a young child to sleep or put him to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, juice or sweetened liquid. Residual liquid in the mouth feeds bacteria that produce acids and attack the teeth while your child sleeps. Protect your child from severe tooth decay by putting him to bed with nothing more than a pacifier or bottle of water.
Simple tips for your child’s diet and dental health
1. Ask your pediatric dentist to help assess your child’s diet.
2. Shop smart! Do not routinely stock your pantry with sugary or starchy snacks. Reserve fun foods for special
occasions.
3. Limit frequency of snacks; choose nutritious snacks.
4. Provide a balanced diet.
5. Do not put young child to bed with a bottle of milk, formula or juice.
6. If your child chews gum or sips soda, choose those without sugar.Category: PreventionThe American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental check-up at least twice a year for most children. Children with increased risk for tooth decay, unusual growth patterns or poor oral hygiene may require more frequent visits.
At First Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that prevention is the foundation of good health. Though dental appointments can sometimes involve tooth decay treatment, it is not the only reason for a dental visit. During a routine visit, we will gently examine your child’s teeth, oral tissues and jaws. The teeth will be cleaned and polished, followed by the application of fluoride. Through our continual assessment, we may suggest additional fluoride use, dietary changes or sealants for ideal dental health. The pediatric dentist may identify orthodontic problems and suggest treatment to guide the teeth as they emerge in the mouth.
Much like your child’s annual visit to the pediatrician, regular dental visits allow for prevention and early detection of any oral diseases and can reduce major dental problems and expensive treatments in the future.
Category: PreventionFour “ingredients” are necessary for cavity formation: a tooth, bacteria, sugar/other carbohydrates and time. To prevent tooth decay, it is very important for you to be mindful of when and what your child eats. Dietary habits that can increase the risk of cavities include:
• Excessive sugary foods, especially between meals
• Sugary drinks, including fruit juices, sports drinks, and flavored soy and cow’s milk, especially between meals
• Between meals snacks, especially starchy (cracker, chips, etc) and sugary (candy, cookies, dried fruit) foodsBest snacks include fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, milk (unsweetened), and water. In addition to healthy eating habits, thorough daily brushing and flossing can keep bacteria from forming harmful colonies. Remember, dental decay is an infection of the tooth. Routine dental checkup can greatly reduce and prevent cavities and dental treatments.
Category: Prevention -
Fluoride is a mineral that is naturally present in many foods and water. Routine use of a small amount of fluoride can help prevent tooth decay by strengthening the outside layer of the teeth. Fluoride also affects cavity-causing bacteria by discouraging acid attacks that break down the tooth.
Using fluoride for the prevention and control of decay is proven to be both safe and effective. However, excessive fluoride ingestion by preschool-aged children can lead to dental fluorosis, which is a chalky white to even brown discoloration of the permanent teeth.
Our pediatric dentist considers many factors before recommending fluoride supplement. Your child’s age, risk of developing dental decay and dietary sources of fluoride are all important considerations. We can help determine if your child is receiving – and not exceeding – the recommended amount. Please consult Dr. Kao at your visit with us.
Category: PreventionHealthy eating habits lead to healthy teeth. Like the rest of the body, the teeth, bones and the soft tissues of the mouth need a well-balanced diet. A balanced diet is one that includes the following major food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, beans and milk. Most snacks that children eat can cause cavity formation. The more frequently a child snacks, the greater the chance for tooth decays. And the longer the food remains in the mouth, the higher the risk for the teeth to become weaker. Do not nurse a young child to sleep or put him to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, juice or sweetened liquid. Residual liquid in the mouth feeds bacteria that produce acids and attack the teeth while your child sleeps. Protect your child from severe tooth decay by putting him to bed with nothing more than a pacifier or bottle of water.
Simple tips for your child’s diet and dental health
1. Ask your pediatric dentist to help assess your child’s diet.
2. Shop smart! Do not routinely stock your pantry with sugary or starchy snacks. Reserve fun foods for special
occasions.
3. Limit frequency of snacks; choose nutritious snacks.
4. Provide a balanced diet.
5. Do not put young child to bed with a bottle of milk, formula or juice.
6. If your child chews gum or sips soda, choose those without sugar.Category: PreventionThe American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental check-up at least twice a year for most children. Children with increased risk for tooth decay, unusual growth patterns or poor oral hygiene may require more frequent visits.
At First Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we believe that prevention is the foundation of good health. Though dental appointments can sometimes involve tooth decay treatment, it is not the only reason for a dental visit. During a routine visit, we will gently examine your child’s teeth, oral tissues and jaws. The teeth will be cleaned and polished, followed by the application of fluoride. Through our continual assessment, we may suggest additional fluoride use, dietary changes or sealants for ideal dental health. The pediatric dentist may identify orthodontic problems and suggest treatment to guide the teeth as they emerge in the mouth.
Much like your child’s annual visit to the pediatrician, regular dental visits allow for prevention and early detection of any oral diseases and can reduce major dental problems and expensive treatments in the future.
Category: PreventionFour “ingredients” are necessary for cavity formation: a tooth, bacteria, sugar/other carbohydrates and time. To prevent tooth decay, it is very important for you to be mindful of when and what your child eats. Dietary habits that can increase the risk of cavities include:
• Excessive sugary foods, especially between meals
• Sugary drinks, including fruit juices, sports drinks, and flavored soy and cow’s milk, especially between meals
• Between meals snacks, especially starchy (cracker, chips, etc) and sugary (candy, cookies, dried fruit) foodsBest snacks include fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, milk (unsweetened), and water. In addition to healthy eating habits, thorough daily brushing and flossing can keep bacteria from forming harmful colonies. Remember, dental decay is an infection of the tooth. Routine dental checkup can greatly reduce and prevent cavities and dental treatments.
Category: Prevention