News from your Dentists at Everton Park, Brisbane

... Just for Kids

The dentists at Jorgensen Mutzelburg Dental have an active interest in staying up to date with the latest in technology, services and research. Check this page regularly for relevant and topical information on general interest dentistry matters and the latest in what's happening at Jorgensen Mutzelburg Dental.

You might recall a television advertisement describing the tough conditions the tyres of your car must withstand each day, and the importance of your suspension in maintaining the tyres grip on the changing road surface. Each time I see this ad, I think how similarly this applies to your mouth. From the day your first tooth erupts, your mouth is an extreme environment. Each day during normal conditions, our teeth must withstand huge forces during chewing, great changes of environmental pH or acidity, and bacterial attack. If we think of stormy conditions - we might consider drinking acidic juices, soft drinks or alcohol, the increased and prolonged forces during clenching and grinding, constant snacking during the day, and poor oral hygiene. Certainly, your mouth is an extreme environment, and your teeth have to withstand a huge array of conditions throughout your lifetime.

Children's dentists focus on maintaining your teeth for life. Children who attend the dentist from a very young age, firstly coming along for the ride during their parents preventative care appointments, and then for a ride in the chair once their teeth have erupted, will become more relaxed and prepared for future visits. At Jorgensen Mutzelburg Dental in Everton Park, Brisbane, we provide a comfortable, caring environment where children can enjoy the experience when coming to the dentist.

How to Prevent Decay in My Child's Teeth

Most parents think that it's the amount of sugar in the diet that directly relates to the amount of tooth decay that arises. It is actually the frequency of eating or drinking sugary foods that is important. The more often your child has sugary foods or drinks, the more likely they are to suffer tooth decay. It is most important to keep these foods to mealtimes, with sugar-free alternatives such as cheese, vegetables or fresh fruits used during snack time. When shopping for groceries, always read the labels of any processed foods, to ensure the products you chose are appropriate for your child. Throughout life, proper dental hygiene is extremely important, and involves brushing, flossing and having regular visits to your dentist at Jorgensen Mutzelburg Dental, Brisbane.

How To Clean My Child's Teeth

As a parent, you should assist your child when brushing at least until they are seven years old. Your baby's teeth are forming before birth, and normally start to erupt around six months of age, although sometimes the first tooth may not arrive until twelve months old. Once the first teeth start to come through, cleaning their teeth should be part of their daily hygiene routine. Initially you may use a wet washer to wipe their teeth, or a children's toothbrush with a very small smear of toothpaste. Once all 20 teeth are through, around 3 years old, you should brush their teeth much like your own. Standing behind your child, looking in the mirror, concentrate on one section at a time, and brush with small circular motions with a soft children's toothbrush. By making daily brushing following breakfast, and last thing before bed, a part of the routine, you will create good oral hygiene practices for life.

Teething

When teeth begin erupting, babies may have discomfort and can be irritable. They like to place fingers and other objects in mouth to relieve discomfort. Also, babies may have sore or tender gums. Some babies can have increased dribbling, flushed cheeks and changed eating patterns. You can also give your baby teething gel, cool teething ring or cold wet washcloth to chew on, but never dipped in sugar or syrup. If your child is still uncomfortable, consult your dentist or physician. Fever should never be considered normal for a teething baby. If your infant has an unusually high or persistent fever while teething, see your general medical practitioner.

Your Child's First Dental Visit

Your child should have their first dental visit six months after eruption of their first baby tooth and no later than 12 months of age. Especially important in Queensland where more than 50% of children will have decayed teeth by age 5, early examination and preventative care will protect your child's teeth now and in the future.

At this initial visit, your dentist will discuss topics such as:

• How to Care for an infant's mouth
• The Appropriate Use of Fluoride
• Oral Habits such as thumb sucking
• Prevention of Dental Trauma
• Teething
• Diet and Oral Health Tips

They will also thoroughly examine your child's mouth while your child sits on your lap. Demonstrate the best technique to clean your child's teeth, and have a chance to practice.

Important Tips for Parents

It is important not to pass your fears or nerves on to your child. Please tell your child what to expect as they visit the dentist, however don't use words such as "pull" or "jab" or "needle". Ensure you make a time suitable for your child, when they are most alert and happy. Bringing your child to the dentist after spending the day shopping is unlikely to produce a positive outcome for your child.

To discuss how our caring dentists can help protect your child's teeth for life, complete our online form or call (07) 3354 1077 and speak with Kathryn to arrange an appointment today.