Expert Answers from Lucent Orthodontics & Dental Specialists in Dallas, TX

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child should visit the dentist by age one or within six months after their first tooth erupts. Early visits help establish a dental home, allow us to monitor your child's oral development, and provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices.

Just like adults, children should have dental check-ups every six months. Regular visits allow us to:

• Monitor tooth development and eruption.
• Prevent cavities through professional cleanings and fluoride treatments.
• Provide guidance on nutrition and oral hygiene habits.

During the first visit at Lucent Orthodontics & Dental Specialists:

• Warm Welcome: Our friendly team will greet you and your child to make them feel comfortable.
• Gentle Examination: A pediatric dentist will examine your child's teeth, gums, and jaw development.
• Oral Hygiene Guidance: We'll provide tips on brushing, flossing, and dietary choices.
• Q&A Session: We'll answer any questions you have about your child's dental health.

You can start using fluoride toothpaste as soon as your child's first tooth appears. Use a smear or rice-sized amount for children under three years old, and a pea-sized amount for children aged three to six. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities.

• Good Oral Hygiene: Encourage brushing twice a day and flossing daily.
• Healthy Diet: Limit sugary snacks and drinks.
• Regular Dental Visits: Schedule check-ups every six months.
• Fluoride Treatments and Sealants: Professional applications strengthen teeth and protect against decay.

Yes, dental X-rays are safe for children. At Lucent Orthodontics & Dental Specialists, we use digital X-rays, which emit significantly less radiation than traditional film X-rays. Protective lead aprons and thyroid collars are also used to minimize exposure.

• Rinse Mouth: Have your child rinse with warm salt water.
• Check for Debris: Gently floss around the tooth to remove any trapped food particles.
• Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
• Avoid Aspirin: Do not place aspirin on the gum or tooth.
• Contact Us: Call our office at 469-399-6664 to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

Dental sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent cavities. They work by sealing out food particles and bacteria.

• Who Needs Them: Children typically receive sealants on their permanent molars around ages 6 and 12.
• Benefits: Sealants can reduce the risk of cavities by up to 80%.

Signs of Teething:

• Increased drooling
• Chewing on objects
• Irritability or fussiness
• Sore or tender gums
• Slight rise in temperature (not exceeding 100.4°F)

Soothing Techniques:

• Gently rub your child's gums with a clean finger.
• Provide a chilled (not frozen) teething ring.
• Offer a clean, cold washcloth to chew on.
• Consult with us before administering any medication.

Effects of Thumb Sucking:

• Prolonged Habit: If thumb sucking persists beyond age 4, it may affect the alignment of permanent teeth and the development of the jaw.
• Potential Issues: Open bite, overbite, or speech problems.

What to Do:

• Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward your child for not sucking their thumb.
• Distraction Techniques: Offer alternative comfort methods.
• Consultation: If the habit continues, schedule an appointment so we can provide guidance and possible intervention.