Tag: pediatric dentist questions

Losing Baby Teeth: What to Tell Your Child

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

Losing Baby Teeth: What to Tell Your ChildIf your child is around six years old, it may be time to have a conversation about losing her baby teeth. Suddenly finding that her tooth is loose could be a very confusing or even frightening experience. Continue reading for some tips to help you navigate this conversation. 

How to Talk To Your Child About Losing Her Baby Teeth

Look for teachable moments

For most kids, the idea of losing baby teeth is not altogether foreign. Chances are, they’ve seen plenty of older kids with missing teeth so use this as a conversation starter. Rather than forcing the conversation on your child seemingly out of the blue, look for encounters your child may have with older peers and point out when the older child has a missing or loose tooth. 

 

This will not only demystify the experience but will help your child to realize that this is a common thing that happens to their peers, too. 

Have some fun with it

Add a little magic to the experience by bringing the tradition of the tooth fairy into your home. The excitement of the tooth fairy could very easily overshadow any anxiety your child may experience about losing her teeth. Even if your child seems disinterested in the fairy herself, nearly all children can get excited about finding a little money under the pillow the next morning. 

Be transparent about the process

It’s important to warm the child up to the idea of a tooth extraction. Explain that when the tooth decides it’s ready to come out, it will first become a little loose. Over time, the tooth should be able to wiggle back and forth with very little pressure. If the child feels any pain when wiggling the tooth, reassure her that the tooth will eventually fall out when it’s ready so there is no need to hurry it or rush it along. 

 

Another important reminder for your child is that a little blood along the gum is perfectly normal after the tooth is pulled. The bleeding should stop in just a few minutes, but if unexpected, the bleeding could scare the child and cause unnecessary anxiety. 

Schedule a Teeth Cleaning in Greenville, NC

Another way to prepare your child to lose her baby teeth is to schedule regular cleanings at Wilson Pediatric Dentistry. We will partner with you in helping your child develop lifelong habits that will promote healthy dental hygiene practices. We offer pediatric dental services such as teeth cleaning in Greenville, North Carolina. 

 

Contact us today to schedule your appointment. 

5 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Pediatric Dentist

Posted on by Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

A pediatric dentist talking to a child patient.

Taking a child to the dentist for the first time can be just as nerve-racking for the parent as it is for the child. That’s why choosing the right pediatric dentist is so important.

Below are five questions to ask when choosing a pediatric dentist so that you may know what to expect at your kid’s first dentist appointment.   

Ask Your Pediatric Dentist These Questions

What should I expect out of my child’s first visit?

A child’s first visit to the dentist can set the tone for years to come. A negative experience can set them up with a fear of the dentist that can prove detrimental to their oral — and emotional — health. Consider the following:

  • What kind of measures will be taken to ease your child’s fears?
  • Are you allowed to hold your child during the examination?
  • How intrusive is the first exam?  

Are your staff members pediatrics?

There are pediatric dentists, and then there are simply general dentists that treat children. The difference is that pediatric dentists have undergone years of additional training to learn how to administer care to the small, delicate, and sensitive mouths of children who may be frightened, shy or unable to remain still throughout the process.

What type of insurance do you take?

Of course, you’ll want to choose a pediatric dentist that accepts your insurance. And don’t hesitate to ask about payment plans or other pricing structures that can make things more affordable for your budget.  

Do you offer sedation?

Sedation or anesthesia are ways to help an anxious patient relax while proper treatment is administered proper treatment. They also alleviate any discomfort that the patient may feel. Not all pediatric dentists offer these options, and even if you don’t think you would choose it for your child, it never hurts to know if it’s available if needed.

What about sealants?

Dental sealants are thin layers of plastic that are applied to the surfaces of teeth and offer protection against the harmful bacteria in food that causes cavities. When choosing a pediatric dentist, ask if they offer this preventive measure as an option.

Wilson Pediatric Dentistry

If you’re looking for a pediatric dentist in Wilson, North Carolina, consider Wilson Pediatric Dentistry. Everything from our welcoming lobby to our friendly staff creates a relaxing atmosphere for young new patients. Our team will develop a dental health plan specific to your child’s needs that will set them up for a lifetime of smiles. Drop in to see our facility, meet our staff, and ask any questions about our practice.