Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry Blog

Raising a child can be tough in general, but raising a child with special needs can come with a host of other challenges. Whether your child has sensory issues, crippling anxiety, motor skill issues, or developmental delays, you want to help them learn to be independent and function in the world around them.

When it comes to keeping their smile healthy, you are going to need to put in some effort every day. However, with the help of your pediatric dentist, you can teach your child that caring for their teeth both at home and at the dentist’s office is crucial for their well-being. Here are some tips for making dentistry for special needs kids easier on everyone!

During your child’s dental checkup, the pediatric dentist tells you their first permanent molars have come in. The dentist then recommends getting dental sealants placed on these molars. They explain that a dental sealant is a thin layer of plastic that is painted onto the chewing surfaces of a back tooth. It blocks bacteria and food particles from accumulating on these surfaces.

But, as a concerned parent, you have questions about this treatment. Read on to get answers to common questions about dental sealants and to help you decide whether it’s right for your child.

If your child chews on their nails, they are far from the only one. According to C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital in Michigan, it is estimated that nearly 50% of children between the ages of 10 and 18 bite their nails. Commonly practiced unintentionally when bored or needing comfort, this little habit can have some unpleasant effects for children. For instance it can permanently impact the appearance of their nails and hands, potentially leading to embarrassment. However, did you know that nail-biting can also harm a child’s oral health? Keep reading to learn why it’s best to curb this bad habit before it causes serious damage to their teeth and gums.

Breastfeeding is known for its many benefits. From studies that suggest its ability to reduce the risk of SIDS and obesity to minimizing ear infections, new mothers will also be pleased to learn of the advantages that come with nursing and oral health. Whether you are new to parenthood or a seasoned expert, you can discover more about the possibilities breastfeeding can provide to your little one by reading this post from an experienced pediatric dentist.

If you are like most parents, you may not think much about how you can maximize your children’s dental insurance coverage. You have many other more pressing matters on your mind! But did you know that you could waste significant money if you don’t make sure they visit the dentist’s office twice a year and stay on top of any necessary treatments? What else can you do to save money, avoid losing valuable benefits, and most importantly, improve your child’s smile? Read on to learn a few helpful ways to get the most out of their plan before it expires at the end of the year.

If you are a new parent who is experiencing the teething phase for the first time, you’re not alone. Every child goes through this uncomfortable phase, which often begins around 6 months of age and occurs off and on until they reach 2.5 or 3. As their baby (primary) teeth erupt, the discomfort is evident through their cries, unwillingness to eat, and inability to sleep. As a result, you, too, may find yourself struggling to achieve adequate rest during this time. If you want to help your little one find relief from the pain and sleep more soundly at night, a pediatric dentist is here to share a few ways you and your baby can better navigate this often restless time.

Does your child have a toothache? Are they experiencing immense discomfort that does not appear to go away with time? You might be tempted to administer an over-the-counter pain reliever in the hopes it will get better, but what you may not realize is avoiding professional care can lead to worsening problems in the future. To better understand how to handle this type of situation, let a kid’s dentist explain what you should know when dealing with your child’s toothache.

Does your child have special needs? Is it a challenge to keep their teeth clean at home? You’re not alone. Dentists who offer unique accommodations for children with mental, physical, and sensory needs often hear from parents how difficult it can be to keep their little one’s oral health in good condition. The Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends special needs dentistry for children with Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, neurological disorders, a cleft lip or palate, vision or hearing impairment, and learning and developmental disabilities.

On top of challenges at home, some children can feel overwhelmed or nervous at the dentist’s office. Unfortunately, poor oral hygiene and fear are not the only possible obstacles you might face as a parent. Children with special needs are at a higher risk for developing certain oral conditions. Here is a clear explanation of what kinds of problems you might expect to see in your child’s smile and why you should visit a pediatric practice that offers special needs dentistry.

Do you have a teenager at home who isn’t the best at listening? Is it difficult to capture their attention long enough to remind them to brush and floss their teeth? You’re not alone. Like many parents, the struggle of raising teens is hard. Getting them to spend a few minutes focused on their oral health may seem like an impossible feat; however, a pediatric dentist in Denver is here to offer 4 tips to help your teenager make time to care for their smile.

As a brand-new parent, watching your baby grow is exciting as well as nerve-racking. During the first year, this stage brings about a lot of change in a short period of time, especially when it comes to their oral health. For months, you can’t get enough of their gummy smile, but suddenly one or two small pearly whites quickly appear above the gum line, causing you to wonder what to do next. If you want to set your child up for a lifetime of good oral habits, let a pediatric dentist explain why these baby teeth are essential and why it’s best to bring in your bundle of joy before they hit the one-year milestone.