CityView Magazine

(910) 497-3200 •103 Superior Drive • Spring Lake Let’s talk about your child’s dental health… Dental health is an important part of a child’s overall health during growth and development. New parents may not realize the importance of caring for their infant’s teeth, however, serious tooth decay may develop by the child’s first birthday. Even though these first teeth will eventually be replaced with permanent ones, the baby teeth are critical for proper chewing, speaking clearly, appearance (smiling with confidence), and guiding the permanent teeth into the proper position. Maintaining good dental health prevents tooth infections that could lead to toothaches. Dr. Vincent Vissichelli is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist, dedicated to maintaining the oral health of his patients, and he feels that when it comes to good dental health, prevention is the key. What causes tooth decay? As soon as teeth appear in the mouth decay can occur. Tooth decay is caused by bacteria, which are present in a thin film of plaque that constantly forms on the teeth. The bacteria in plaque use sugar to produce acid, which attacks tooth enamel. If sugary liquid is allowed to remain in the mouth, acid will begin to attack the teeth. Tooth decay can occur after frequent, repeated acid attacks. To prevent decay, wipe the infants gums after each feeding. Parents need to use a brush as soon as the baby’s tooth first appears. What is baby-bottle tooth decay, also known as “bottle rot”? Early childhood caries, sometimes called baby bottle tooth decay, is a condition that can destroy the teeth of an infant or young child. It develops when a baby receives a bottle of milk, formula, fruit juice, or sweetened liquids frequently. It may result when the child is allowed to fall asleep with a bottle during naps or at bedtime. While the baby sleeps, the flow of saliva decreases. Harmful sugary liquids collect and remain around the teeth, inviting acid attacks. A proper diet is important. Teach your child to drink from a cup as they approach their first birthday. Children should not fall asleep with a bottle. At what age should my child first be seen by a pediatric dentist? Your child should visit the pediatric dentist by his or her first birthday (surprising, isn’t it?) While this may seem young, the initial examination and preventative measures will enable parents to better protect their child’s smile now and in the future. What will happen at the first visit? The pediatric dentist will review your child’s medical and dental history and examine the teeth, oral tissues, and jaws. The teeth will be cleaned and polished, followed by an application of a fluoride solution. During his examination, Dr. Vissichelli will evaluate to be sure the appropriate number of teeth have erupted and that they are being properly cleaned. If there are some concerns, he may offer helpful advice on how to achieve proper cleaning techniques. He will also check for decay, determine if the child is receiving proper amounts of fluoride, and will answer questions you may have about your child’s oral health. Early dental visits will help your child build a lifetime of good dental habits. It’s never too early to teach your child how to have healthy teeth! Choose Healthful Snacks Raw vegetables Cheese Low-fat milk and yogurt Hard fresh fruit (like apples) Peanut butter (without sugar) Plain popcorn Discourage These Snacks Candy Sticky foods (raisins, granola Bars, fruit roll-ups) Soda with sugar Potato chips Pretzels Pre-sweetened cereals Accepting New Patients Saturday Appointments Participating Provider for United Concordia and Delta Dental

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