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Clermont Family Dentistry is excited to announce that our office is now open for all treatments and procedures, and that we’re taking additional special measures to ensure the health and safety of our patients and staff.
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Clermont Family Dentistry is excited to announce that our office is now open for all treatments and procedures, and that we’re taking additional special measures to ensure the health and safety of our patients and staff.
Learn moreLittle teeth have big jobs—chewing, speaking clearly, and giving kids the confidence to grin in photos. The good news? You don’t need a complicated routine to keep them healthy. You just need the right steps at the right ages. Here’s a practical pediatric dentistry guide you can actually use.
Before teeth erupt, wipe your baby’s gums once daily with a clean, damp cloth. When the first tooth appears—often around 6 months—start brushing twice a day with a soft, infant-size brush. Use a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice). Book the first dental visit by age one, or within six months of the first tooth. Early visits are mostly education and comfort: you learn brushing positions, diet tips, and what to watch for as more teeth arrive.
Teething happens in waves and can cause drooling, fussiness, and lots of chewing. Cool teething rings help; avoid numbing gels that aren’t recommended for infants. And remember—bottles at bedtime with milk or juice bathe teeth in sugar. If your child needs a bottle to sleep, fill it with water.
At this stage, kids want independence, but they still need your help. Brush twice a day for two minutes. Floss where teeth touch. Keep using a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste until age 3, then switch to a pea-size amount if they can spit. Offer water between meals and stick to the “kitchen is open, kitchen is closed” idea to cut down on constant snacking.
Dental sealants may be recommended as molars erupt, creating a protective shield over deep grooves that trap food. If a thumb or pacifier habit continues past age 3–4, ask for tips to gently break the habit before it affects the bite.
Kids can start brushing on their own with supervision—think “you brush, then I brush.” Use a timer or a favorite song to hit two full minutes. Fluoride varnish at checkups strengthens enamel, and sealants on adult molars are a smart add-on when they appear.
Sports starting up? A custom or boil-and-bite mouthguard protects growing smiles from accidental bumps. It’s a small investment compared to repairing a front tooth.
Now’s the season for braces or clear aligners if crowding or bite issues show up. Help your child clean around wires or trays carefully—threader floss and small interdental brushes are heroes here. Sugary drinks are tempting; make water the default. For athletes, replace mouthguards when they get worn or after big growth spurts.
Teens often stay out late and snack more. Encourage brushing before bed even on the busiest nights. If whitening becomes a conversation, wait until the full adult dentition is in and talk with your dentist about safe options.
Cavities are common but preventable. Cleanings remove stubborn plaque, fluoride hardens enamel, and early guidance makes home care easier. Regular visits also track growth and eruption, so problems like impacted teeth, crossbites, or narrow arches are spotted early—when options are simpler and treatment times shorter.
Professional organizations consistently highlight that early dental visits reduce cavities and help kids feel comfortable in the dental chair. Fluoride use (in toothpastes and professionally applied varnish) lowers decay risk, and sealants on molars can dramatically cut cavities in those deep chewing grooves. Mouthguards reduce the chance of tooth injuries during sports. The through-line is simple: steady, age-appropriate care adds up to fewer problems and happier visits.
Do baby teeth really matter if they fall out? Yes. They hold space for adult teeth, guide speech, and let kids chew comfortably. Early loss raises the chance of crowding and orthodontic problems.
What if my child has a cavity on a baby tooth? Treat it. It can spread and hurt. Small fillings are quick and comfortable.
My child grinds at night—is that normal? Many kids do for a while. Mention it at the next visit; a night guard may be considered for older kids if there’s wear.
Is x-ray radiation safe? Modern digital x-rays use very low doses and are taken only when necessary. Lead aprons and thyroid collars add protection.
Cavities love frequent sugar. It’s not just the amount; it’s the timing. Every sip of juice or sports drink kicks off a 20–30-minute acid attack on enamel. That’s why “grazing” on sweets all afternoon is tougher on teeth than a treat eaten with a meal. Keep flavored drinks to mealtimes, offer water between, and look for calcium-rich snacks like cheese or yogurt that help neutralize acids.
Fluoride works like a tiny shield. It makes the outer layer of the tooth (enamel) more resistant to acid. A smear for toddlers and a pea-size amount for older kids is the sweet spot—enough to help, not enough to swallow much. If your family uses well water, ask your dentist whether a fluoride supplement makes sense.
Most kids do great with simple, positive language: “We’re going to count your teeth and make them shiny.” Practice “open wide” at home with a flashlight. Bring a favorite stuffed animal. If anxiety runs high, ask about tell-show-do techniques and, when appropriate, gentle options that help kids relax during longer visits.
Habits are comfort, not defiance. Start by limiting the habit to bedtime. Praise “hands out of mouth” moments during the day. Around age 4–5, a small reward chart works wonders. Your dentist can also suggest simple reminders like a fabric thumb guard if needed.
Perfection isn’t the goal—consistency is. Twice-daily brushing, daily flossing, smart snacking, and regular checkups keep things on track. Celebrate small wins: a week of solid brushing, a great report at the cleaning, or a night guard worn without a fuss.
For an easy, encouraging start—or a reset if it’s been a while—schedule a pediatric dentistry visit with Clermont Family Dentistry in Clermont, FL. Call (352) 242-1763 to Schedule a Consultation.
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