CHILDREN'S & PAEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Replacing missing teeth is important for several reasons, both from a functional and aesthetic perspective, as well as for your overall oral health. Here are some key reasons why you should consider replacing missing teeth: 1. Maintain Proper Dental Function: Your teeth work together to perform essential functions like chewing, speaking, and maintaining proper alignment of your other teeth. When a tooth is missing, it can affect your ability to chew food properly and speak clearly. 2. Prevent Shifting of Teeth: When there is a gap in your dental arch due to a missing tooth, adjacent teeth may start to shift or drift into that space. This can lead to misalignment issues, bite problems, and potential for more tooth loss over time. 3. Preserve Jawbone Health: The roots of your teeth stimulate the jawbone when you chew and bite. When a tooth is missing, the underlying jawbone can start to deteriorate or resorb over time. This can lead to a loss of bone density and affect the overall structure and appearance of your face. 4. Enhance Aesthetics: Missing teeth can impact your smile's appearance and self-confidence. Replacing a missing tooth can restore your smile, improve your self-esteem, and help you feel more comfortable in social and professional situations. 5. Prevent TMJ Disorders: Changes in your bite due to missing teeth can contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, leading to jaw pain, headaches, and discomfort. 6. Distribute Bite Forces: Your teeth share the force of your bite when you eat. When a tooth is missing, the remaining teeth may have to bear more load, which can lead to excessive wear and tear on those teeth and potential dental problems. 7. Improve Digestion and Nutrition: Proper chewing is essential for effective digestion. Missing teeth can make it difficult to chew food thoroughly, which may lead to digestive issues or malnourishment. 8. Maintain Speech Clarity: Some teeth play a crucial role in forming certain speech sounds. Missing teeth, especially in the front of your mouth, can affect your ability to pronounce words correctly. 9. Prevent Gum Problems: Gaps in your teeth can trap food particles and make it harder to maintain proper oral hygiene. This can increase the risk of gum disease and other dental issues. To address a missing tooth, you have several options, including dental implants, bridges, and removable dentures. The choice of replacement depends on your specific situation, including your oral health, budget, and preferences. Ask our friendly dentists, who can help you determine the best solution to replace missing teeth and maintain your oral health and overall well-being.

As a rule of thumb, 6 months from when they get their first tooth so generally by their first birthday is when you can schedule your baby’s first dentistry visit. While we are usually able to examine the teeth at this appointment, it is also largely to talk to you the parents/caregivers regarding the best oral health care regimen for your child and discuss any risks that may adversely affect your baby s dental health. Starting dental visits early not only ensures a healthy smile but also educates children on the importance of oral hygiene, fostering habits that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Your child’s first baby tooth will usually erupt around 6 months though it can be as early as 4 months or as late as 8 months. This tooth is normally one of the lower central teeth. (Although everyone is different so it may be somewhere else).

Cleaning your baby’s first teeth is a foundational step in paediatric dental care. Initially, gently wiping all surfaces with a flannel or muslin cloth (no toothpaste needed) is sufficient. This method ensures the removal of any residual milk or food particles, mitigating the risk of potential build-up or decay. As your baby’s dental development progresses, it’s advisable to introduce a soft baby toothbrush with a minimal amount of age-appropriate toothpaste. This acclimatises your child to the brushing sensation and the flavour of toothpaste.

Firstly, do the best you can, it’s not always easy! It is good to establish a routine to make brushing a habit and a necessity just like changing a nappy is. Brushing twice daily (morning and evening) is ideal and can be incorporated into bath time. When your child’s first baby teeth appear, you can start by gently wiping those teeth with a soft cloth. As the baby molars begin to emerge, transition to using a soft toothbrush, focusing on the back of the teeth. As the teeth start to touch each other, it’s a good idea to introduce flossing to ensure all surfaces are clean. The best positioning for brushing your child’s teeth is to brush from slightly behind and to the side (almost cradling them but upright). You can then perform small circular motions on the gums on the inside and outside of the teeth, making sure to reach right to the back. Brush the chewing surfaces of the molars whilst maintaining the circular motions. A small smear of age-appropriate toothpaste can be used on the brush. As your child grows older and becomes more independent, encourage them to take the lead in brushing. Aiming for a brushing duration of around 2 minutes is ideal. However, it’s recommended that you finish off the brushing to ensure thorough cleaning. By teaching your child proper oral care techniques and establishing a consistent routine, you set them up for a lifetime of good oral health. Early dental care is paramount.