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Kyle K. Harmon, DDS Dayana Arreola, DDS
Central Davis Dental

Central Davis Dental

Layton Dentists You Can Trust

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Find an Affordable Dental Clinic Near Me

Maintaining good oral health is important, but for many, the cost of dental care can be a difficult barrier. Finding a “dental clinic near me” that you can trust and feel comfortable with can be difficult, but look no further. If you’re near Layton, Utah, and searching for an affordable dental clinic near me, Central Davis Dental offers a range of options to accommodate various financial situations. Let’s explore common concerns and solutions related to getting cost-effective dental care.

Dental Clinic Near Me

What Can I Do If I Have a Bad Tooth with No Money?

Experiencing dental pain without the means to pay for treatment can be distressing. There are several steps you can take. At Central Davis Dental, we accept a large range of insurances and we offer an in-house membership plan. You can contact our office and we would be happy to answer all of your questions.

What Can I Do If I Can’t Afford Dental Treatment?

If dental expenses are beyond your current means, there are ways to make treatment more affordable. Inquiring about financing options can be beneficial, as many dental offices, including Central Davis Dental, accept third-party financing plans like CareCredit, allowing you to spread the cost over manageable monthly payments. CareCredit is happily accepted at our office. Using dental insurance effectively is another option. If you have insurance, using your benefits can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Central Davis Dental accepts a wide range of insurance providers. Additionally, like mentioned in the previous section, Central Davis Dental offers an in-house membership to help cover the expenses of cleaning and treatment.

Is a Dental Clinic the Same as a Dentist?

While both provide dental care, there are distinctions between a dental clinic and a dentist’s office. Dental clinics are often larger facilities that may house multiple dentists and offer a wide range of services under one roof. They likely provide extended hours and have more resources for specialized treatments. Dentist offices, on the other hand, are typically smaller, private practices focusing on personalized care from one or a few dentists. Central Davis Dental combines the benefits of both, offering across-the-board services with a personal touch.

What Is the Most Inexpensive Way to Fix Messed Up Teeth?

The most affordable solutions for dental issues depend on the specific problem. Preventive care, such as regular check-ups and cleanings, can help you avoid more severe and costly issues. For cavities, dental fillings provide a relatively inexpensive and common solution. If you have chipped or cracked teeth, dental bonding is great way to restore them, as it is generally more affordable than veneers or crowns. Discussing financing options with your dental provider can also make treatments more affordable.

What Is the Advantage of a Dental Clinic?

Dental clinics offer several benefits. Clinics like Central Davis Dental provide a wide array of services, from preventive care to cosmetic dentistry, all in one location. Having multiple professionals on staff allows clinics to offer diverse expertise and collaborative care. At Central Davis Dental, Kyle K. Harmon, DDS, and Dayana Arreola, DDS, care deeply for all their patients and are experts in the dental field.

Many clinics also provide flexible scheduling, including extended hours to accommodate different needs. Additionally, clinics often invest in the latest dental technologies, which enhance the quality and efficiency of care. Choosing a dental clinic like Central Davis Dental ensures access to comprehensive, high-quality care tailored to your needs.

How to Find an Affordable Dental Clinic Near Me?

Finding a good dental clinic near me that fits your needs can be difficult. You can call our office during any of our operating hours and find out more information. We are happy to answer your questions so you can know if we are going to be a good fit for you, your family and your friends.

An affordable dental clinic near me is attainable with the right resources and proactive communication. Central Davis Dental in Layton, Utah, is committed to providing accessible and comprehensive dental services to the community. Contact us today with your questions about our financial services. You can stop searching “affordable dental clinic near me” because you found it!

Filed Under: Dental, Uncategorized Tagged With: affordable, dental clinic near me, Layton, Utah

Root Canal

What Happens If My Root Canal Falls Out?

If you’ve ever had a root canal procedure, you know it’s a vital treatment for saving a tooth that is severely decayed or infected. Root canals have a high success rate and can provide long-term relief. However, as with any dental procedure, complications can arise, and one potential concern is the possibility of your root canal “falling out.” In this blog post, we’ll explore what could happen if your root canal falls out and how to manage the situation.

Understanding Treatment

Before we dive into the potential issues, it’s essential to understand what a root canal involves. During a root canal, the dentist or endodontist removes the infected or damaged tissue inside your tooth (the pulp) and thoroughly cleans and seals the space. The goal is to save the tooth from extraction and restore it to full function.

Typically, after a root canal, the tooth is restored with a crown, which acts as a protective cover. This crown helps prevent further infection and provides the tooth with the necessary strength to function like a natural tooth. In rare instances, complications can arise, leading to the crown or the material inside the tooth coming loose or falling out.

Why Could a Root Canal Fall Out?

When people refer to a “root canal falling out,” they are usually referring to the crown or filling that covers the tooth after the root canal was placed. Here are a few reasons why that would happen:

  1. Wear and Tear: Over time, crowns and fillings can wear down, especially if you grind your teeth or have an improper bite. This gradual wear can cause the crown to become loose and eventually fall off.
  2. Decay Around the Crown: If there is an issue with the sealing of the crown or if bacteria manage to enter the space around the crown, decay can begin to develop. This decay may weaken the bond between the crown and the tooth, causing it to loosen or fall off.
  3. Infection in the Root Canal: In some cases, if the root canal didn’t fully address the infection, or if bacteria re-enter the tooth, an infection can occur inside the root. This can weaken the tooth structure and lead to issues with the crown or the materials used in the root canal.
  4. Trauma or Injury: A blow to the mouth, such as from an accident or sports injury, can cause damage to the tooth and the root canal procedure, leading to the crown or filling coming loose.

What Should You Do Next?

If your root canal or the crown protecting it falls out, it’s essential to address the issue quickly to prevent further complications. Here’s what you should do:

  1. Call Your Dentist Immediately: If you notice that your crown or filling has fallen out, contact your dentist as soon as possible. They can schedule an appointment to assess the situation and recommend the appropriate treatment.
  2. Save the Crown: If the crown has fallen out, try to find it and keep it safe. Your dentist may be able to reattach the crown if it is still intact and in good condition. In some cases, a new crown may need to be made.
  3. Avoid Using the Affected Tooth: Until you can see your dentist, try to avoid using the tooth to chew food. Biting down on it can cause further damage and introduce bacteria into the exposed tooth.
  4. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Continue brushing and flossing your teeth, but be gentle around the affected area. Keeping the tooth clean will reduce the risk of infection and help prevent further issues.
  5. Pain Management: If the exposed tooth or root canal area is causing discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers can help temporarily alleviate the pain. However, avoid placing anything directly in the hole left by the fallen crown.

How Can You Prevent?

While some issues are beyond your control, there are steps you can take to minimize the chances of your root canal or crown falling out:

  1. Follow Up with Your Dentist: Regular checkups after a root canal are essential to monitor the health of your tooth and crown. Your dentist can catch any potential issues early, such as decay or damage to the crown.
  2. Protect Your Teeth: If you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a mouthguard. This will reduce pressure on the crown and help prevent wear. Additionally, avoid using your teeth to open packages or chew on hard objects that could damage the crown.
  3. Proper Oral Care: Practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing regularly. This will help prevent bacteria from entering the tooth and causing further decay.

While it’s rare for a root canal and its crown to fall out, it’s not something that should be ignored. If this happens to you, it’s essential to take quick action by contacting your dentist, saving the crown if possible, and following their instructions. With the right care, you can prevent further damage and maintain the health of your tooth. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene are key to ensuring your root canal remains intact and functional for years to come.

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The Basics of Veneers

First, let’s clear up what veneers actually are. A veneer is a thin shell placed over your natural tooth to improve its appearance, how it looks. Think of it as a custom-made “facelift” for your teeth. Whether you’re looking to achieve a Hollywood smile or simply cover a few imperfections, veneers work magic. The materials and processes involved can vary, which is why it’s important to know the pros and cons of both options, traditional and composite.

Traditional Veneers: The Hollywood Choice

What do you think of when you hear porcelain veneers? Traditional? Porcelain veneers are incredibly popular due to their natural appearance, strength, and long-lasting results. These veneers are custom-made in a lab to fit your teeth perfectly, ensuring they blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile. The process is more involved than composite veneers, but many patients feel the extra effort is worth it.

The Process: To apply porcelain veneers, a small amount of your tooth enamel must be removed to create space for the veneer. This is why traditional veneers are often considered a more permanent solution. The procedure typically involves two visits: the first to prepare your teeth and the second to bond the porcelain shells to your teeth. It’s a bit of a time commitment, but the result is a stunning, natural-looking smile.

Veneer

Pros of Traditional Veneers:

  • Durability: Porcelain veneers are incredibly strong, with a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, or even longer with proper care.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: The translucent quality of porcelain mimics natural tooth enamel, making your smile look incredibly natural.
  • Stain Resistance: Porcelain is resistant to staining, meaning your smile stays bright and beautiful for years.

Cons of Traditional Veneers:

  • Invasive: Since some tooth enamel is removed, this procedure is irreversible.
  • Cost: Porcelain veneers tend to be more expensive than composite veneers, making them a bigger investment.
  • Time: The process can take a couple of weeks to complete, as the veneers are created in a lab.

Composite Veneers: The Quick Fix

Let’s talk about composite veneers, which are a more affordable option, quicker alternative to traditional porcelain. Instead of using pre-made shells, composite veneers are sculpted directly onto your teeth using a moldable resin. The dentist shapes and molds the material to create a veneer that matches the natural shape of your teeth. While this process is less invasive and typically requires only one visit, there are trade-offs in terms of longevity and aesthetics.

The Process: Composite veneers are applied directly to the teeth, often in just one appointment. Your dentist will clean and prepare the teeth, then layer the composite resin onto the surface. After it hardens, the dentist will shape and polish the veneer to achieve the desired look. It’s a faster and less invasive process, but the results may not be as long-lasting as traditional veneers.

Pros of Composite Veneers:

  • Less Invasive: No enamel removal is necessary (or only a small amount), so the procedure is reversible to some degree.
  • Cost-Effective: Composite veneers are significantly less expensive than traditional.
  • Quick Turnaround: You can get a new smile in just one visit—no waiting weeks for your veneers to arrive from the lab.

Cons of Composite Veneers:

  • Durability Issues: Composite resin is more prone to chips, cracks, and staining compared to porcelain. Most composite veneers last around 5 to 7 years.
  • Aesthetic Limitations: While they can look great, composite veneers aren’t as translucent as porcelain, meaning they may not mimic the natural appearance of teeth as closely.
  • Maintenance: Over time, composite veneers may require repairs or replacements due to wear and tear.

So, Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the decision between traditional porcelain veneers and composite veneers comes down to YOU! Your goals, budget, and lifestyle. If you’re looking for a long-lasting, durable solution and don’t mind the extra time and cost, traditional porcelain veneers might be the best choice. They offer a stunning, natural look that can withstand the test of time.

On the other hand, if you want a quicker, more affordable solution and are okay with a slightly shorter lifespan, composite veneers could be the way to go. They’re ideal for people looking for a fast, temporary fix or those with a tighter budget.

In conclusion, both types of veneers offer unique advantages and can dramatically improve your smile. Whether you opt for the classic durability of porcelain or the fast, flexible composite option, the right veneer for you depends on your needs and expectations. So, take your time, talk to Dr. Kyle Harmon, and soon you’ll be flashing a smile that’s picture-perfect—no matter which option you choose!

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Have you ever noticed an unpleasant odor trailing from your mouth? You may be dealing with what is commonly referred to as “perio breath.” This is usually associated with periodontal (gum) disease. This is something that can create discomfort but embarrassing to some as well. This fact sheet will explain what perio breath is, its causes, and how to manage/prevent it.

perio breath

What is Perio Breath?

Perio breath is identified as bad breath (halitosis) that comes from gum disease or infections in the oral cavity. Unlike like regular and occasional bad breath that is usually caused by diet or poor oral hygiene, perio breath is usually linked to an underlying problem of dental issues.

Causes of Perio Breath

Periodontal Disease: This is the primary cause of perio breath. It involves inflammation and infection of the gums. Bacteria that get stuck in the pockets of the gums can create foul-smelling compounds.

Poor Oral Hygiene: Improper brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up, leading to gum disease and bad breath. Regular practice of good oral hygiene helps decrease bacteria that cause odor.

Tobacco Use: Smoking or using other tobacco substances contributes to consistent bad breath.

Dry Mouth: Saliva plays a big role in keeping the mouth clean. Conditions that lead to dry mouth, such as medications or dehydration, can worsen bad breath.

Dietary Choices: Foods like garlic, onion, or some spices can worsen bad breath. If these foods are combined with gum disease, the smell can be more noticeable and heightened.

Managing and Preventing Perio Breath

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are essential to prevent plaque buildup and decrease the risk of gum disease. Cleaning the bacteria on your tongue is important too, don’t forget that step.

Regular Dental Check-ups: Going to your six-month dental appointments can help you catch gum disease early on. The dentist and hygienists can provide professional cleanings to remove the plaque buildup and tartar that we can miss while regular brushing at home.

Use Mouthwash: Antibacterial mouthwash can help decrease the bacteria that live in the mouth and freshen up the breath too. Look for mouthwashes that are specifically formulated for gum health.

Avoid Tobacco: Quitting smoking and use of tobacco products can improve not only your breath but overall health too.

Dietary Adjustments: Fruits and vegetables being present in a diet can help fight against bad breath. Foods that are high in fiber can stimulate the production of saliva and create healthy gums.

Consult a Professional: If perio breath is consistent, it’s crucial to seek dental professional help. They can assess your oral health, find the underlying issues, and give appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

Taking charge of your breath is the beginning of effective management and prevention. By maintaining good oral health and seeking regular dental care, you can defeat your bad breath and improve your overall gum health. If you have any further questions or concerns, reach out to your dental professional today for guidance. With the right care, you can rely on fresh breath and a healthy smile.

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Canker Sores, or aphthous ulcers, are small, painful lesions that can develop inside the mouth. They can make eating, drinking, and sometimes even talking quite uncomfortable.

The sores are not contagious but can be very bothersome to many. If you’re looking for ways to defeat and exterminate canker sores, you came to the right place for effective strategies and remedies to help the canker sore relief.

canker sores utah

Understanding Canker Sores

Canker sores appear as round, white, or yellowish ulcers surrounded by a red halo. Stress, hormonal changes, specific food sensitivities, or vitamin deficiencies can all contribute to canker sores appearing in the mouth.

canker sores

Home Remedies

Salt Water Rinse: Salt water rinses are the easiest and most convenient way to alleviate the pain of a sore. All you do is rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Mix one teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water. Swish it in your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. Saltwater rinses can reduce inflammation and fasten healing.

Baking Soda Paste: Baking soda is known for its healing properties. Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create the paste and apply it directly to the sore. Leave the paste on for a few minutes and then rinse.

Honey: Applying a small amount directly to the canker sore can help soothe the pain and could speed up the healing because of its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is known for its soothing properties in many things, like sunburns. It can be applied directly to a canker sore. It will reduce pain and can fasten the healing.

Good Oral Hygiene: Continuing the usual routine for oral hygiene is important. It may hurt a little, but keeping the mouth clean from bacteria will promote healing and keep the canker sore from worsening.

Over-the-counter Treatments:

Consider over-the-counter treatment options if home remedies aren’t cutting it for relief. Products that contain benzocaine can numb the area and give some relief. There are additional topical ointments specifically for canker sores that can heal the sore.

Stress Management

Stress can be a more significant trigger to canker sores. It may be good to incorporate stress-reducing activities that will benefit you. Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help lower stress levels and reduce the frequency of canker breakouts.

When to See a Doctor

If cankers become unusually large or don’t disappear for more than two weeks and are accompanied by fever or other symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional specializing in mouth ulcers like our team at Central Davis Dental in Layton.

Conclusion

Canker sores can be so annoying and painful. There are many ways to manage the sores and get rid of them. You can find relief and healing by using home remedies to manage stress. It is important to remember that if symptoms continue and don’t go away, seek professional help. With the right approach, you can decrease the impact of canker sores.

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Every patient who enters our doors choose to come. Many are recommended by friends and family. Some come for pain relief. Others come out of concern for a family member. Many more come because they want to protect their oral health so they can live happy, productive and pain free lives. Each one who made the choice to visit this Layton dentist answered one question:

How do I choose a competent, caring dentist?

We understand this is important to you so we put together the “How Do I Choose a Dentist Quick Check Guide” to help you (See below). We also did the research to create the local dentist “Comprehensive Treatment Comparison” chart for you (See below).

Here are a few of recommendations from the “How Do I Choose a Dentist Quick Check Guide” we think you will appreciate.

  • Relationship – The American Dental Association* suggest you ask your friends and family for recommendations.
  • Experience – The relationship you have with your dentist grows out of your interactions. The way the office operates influences your experience.How do they work? Does it work for you?
  • Expertise – Are they up to date? Are they prepared to perform the very best procedures to meet you needs?
  • Technology – Do they have the tools to put into practice the best practices?

As you can see there are some pretty good suggestions in the Quick Guide. You’ll want a to  get a copy to examine more carefully later. You can see below just how our office aligns with the recommendations.

Relationship

Did you know that you are four times more likely to purchase a product or service when it was recommended by a friend or family member?  We tend to trust referrals and reviews from our peers and often look for that stamp of approval before trying out something new. We want to be the dental office you are comfortable telling all your friends and family about.

We’re very committed to creating lasting relationships with our patients.  We give the same careful attention to each of our patients and strive to meet all their needs.  You can always depend on us too; we’re always here to help, even if its 2 am!  But don’t take our word for it, look and see what others have said about our office to help decide for yourself if this is the place for you!

     Allen Webb – I had been going to my previous dentist in Ogden for 35 years when he decided to retire. I wanted to find a younger dentist closer to home and had heard only good things about Dr. Harmon. Since switching I have had a couple of regular check-ups and a root canal. Dr. Harmon has been great!! I highly recommend him and his wonderful staff. Feels like home already. . . as much like home as a root canal can feel!!

Experience

When it comes to experience there’s more to consider than just time on the job.  You want a dentist who has a mix of top notch education, mentored experience, and confidence in his/her work as well as working experience.  We believe a good place to start is to know a little bit of background about who you’re putting your trust in when you sit in the dental chair.

Here’s just a little bit about the Doctor:

Dr Kyle Harmon, DDS Layton Utah

Dr. Harmon has been practicing dentistry since 2010 after graduating from the University of Maryland with a degree in Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S).  The school of dentistry at University of Maryland has been consistently ranked in the top ten schools of dentistry across the country and has an extremely competitive acceptance rate.

Dr. Harmon also completed his bachelor’s in business management in 2006 at Brigham Young University.  His schooling also included mentoring under experienced dentists to become proficient in all scopes of dentistry.

Dr. Harmon has continued to better his practice by attending dental conventions, classes, and other studies to keep him up to date with the latest trends, not to mention helping hundreds of patients over the years with their dental needs!

Expertise

In an ever changing world you may wonder how our staff stays up to date with the newest trends and technologies in the dentistry field.  To stay current and practiced in their field all dentists and hygienists are required to earn a certain amount of CE credits per year to stay licensed.  The minimum amount is 30 credits in 2 years.  Not only do we meet this requirement but go above and beyond!  In 2013 alone Dr. Harmon gained over 80 credits!  For the past two years he has a combined total of over 150 credits, 120 more than what is required.  Dr. Harmon isn’t the only one working hard – our staff members also gain CE credits from attending dental conventions and classes throughout the year.  In 2013 the staff worked up 71 CE credits and 58 credits in 2012.  As you can see we take our practice very seriously and we know the best way to take care of our patients is to stay in the know with current dental practices and trends.  It’s no wonder we’re able to do so many different treatments in our office which makes things much more convenient for you!  Just take a look at our comparison chart to see how we stack up against three other dentists in the Davis County area.

Comparison of services offered by Dentists in Layton Utah

Technology

It seems like we live in a world where technology is advancing every day.  It’s true, new and improved techniques and equipment are emerging all the time in the dental field but we’ve made it our goal to keep updated with the trends.  We not only have the right tools in our practice to give the best care but offer technology others don’t!  From our revolutionary Fastbraces® technology to our laser treatments to state of the art equipment you can be sure you’re getting the right treatment.  Our updated digital x-ray equipment helps us see everything in just a few minutes with hardly any radiation and makes creating the right treatment plan for your needs easy.  We recently added laser treatments to our services.  Laser technology can be used in many different ways including making cleanings easier and more comfortable for you, incisions that are practically pain free, and many other uses.   Technology helps us to better help you and we have made every effort to stay up to date to ensure the best care for all our patients.

How To Choose

Now you know more about how to pick a dentist. You also know a lot more about the quality practice Dr. Kyle Harmon of Central Davis Dental has build in Layton, Utah. You probably still have a few lingering questions like those answered as you go through the “How Do I Choose a Dentist Quick Check Guide”.
We can send you your personal copy of “How Do I Choose a Dentist Quick Check Guide”. Just let us know and we will email it to you so you can read it when you can give it the attention it deserves.

Schedule a consultation

Have questions about your personal oral health?  We’re here to help.  Right now we are offering a free consultation from Dr. Harmon to get you on the right track for better oral health. We promise we’re the number one dentist in Layton, UT and look forward to proving it to you.  To make things even easier we’re also going to give you $20 or 20% off any dental treatment. Schedule your free consultation today!

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Good oral hygiene habits start early.  As a parent you know that it is your responsibility to keep your children healthy and safe but many times oral hygiene falls by the waysides leaving your child vulnerable to dental problems.  Ask yourself these questions:

~        Has my child been to see a dentist?

~        Does my child know how to properly care for their own teeth including brushing and flossing?

~        Does my child have a tooth-friendly diet?

~        Is my child at risk for dental problems due to bad habits now? (i.e. thumb sucking, bottles/pacifiers)

Now it goes without saying that age appropriate behaviors apply (we don’t expect your one year old to know how to floss) but do you know when or where to start? To help you gain a better understanding of your child’s oral health we will use these four questions to break down the do’s and don’ts of pediatric dental care.

DO take your child to the dentist early

Did you know that the American Academy of Pediatrics advises parents to take their children to their first dentist visit before they even turn one year old?  It may be strange to think of taking your baby to see the dentist but once they have teeth those teeth need to be cared for.  Even if your child only has a few baby teeth, getting them to a dentist early will help them get used to the dental chair and help reduce their fears of going to the dentist when they’re older.  Early visits are also a great opportunity for you to talk to your dentist about how to care for your child’s teeth as they get older.  Plan to visit the dentist every six months after their second birthday and expect their first set of x-rays to take place between the ages of 4 and 6.  It is also a great idea to have a fluoride treatment done at each dental visit to help strengthen their growing teeth and most insurance’s cover this procedure for children.  As your child starts to lose their baby teeth and permanent ones start to come in (around 5 or 6) plan on getting sealants done on their molars.  Sealants are a thin plastic coating applied directly to teeth to help prevent bacteria from settling into the pits and grooves of teeth that are susceptible to decay.  By the time your child turns eight you can plan on taking them to an orthodontist.

DON’T reinforce fears

If you’re concerned about how your child will behave for the dentist, don’t be.  Your dentist will have the proper training and experience to work with young children, you don’t even need to take them to a pediatric specialist unless they have special needs or are recommended by your pediatrician. If your child is showing fear towards dentist visits or during their visits there are ways to help them adjust.  Make sure they know why they are going to the dentist and what to expect when they’re there.  The dentist will also help ease your child’s fears by explaining what he’s doing and by showing them a little fun with a “chair ride.”  Your child will eventually understand that the dentist is there to keep them healthy, just like their doctor.  Reinforce good behavior at the dentist, when they do something right tell them they’re doing a good job!  All of these measures will not only help keep your child’s mouth healthy but will also keep you from wanting to pull your hair out whenever dentist visits come around!

DO teach your children good habits while they’re young

Preparing your child to have a lifetime of good oral health should start when they’re young.  You can start caring for your child’s oral health even before they have teeth.  For young infants it is recommended to keep their gums clean by wiping them with a clean rag or using a fingertip brush.  Not only will this keep their gums clean and healthy but also helps them get used to having something cleaning the inside of their mouth.  The moment teeth start to erupt is when you should start brushing.  Use a piece of moist gauze to wipe away plaque when they’re first erupting and move to a toothbrush once they have several teeth.  You can get a toothbrush with a small head for your child, you don’t even have to purchase one if you bring them to the dentist – we’ll give you one!

Try to clean your child’s teeth twice a day, just like you.  Having a set routine will be most beneficial for your child and can easily be incorporated into morning and night routines.  Many parents worry about using fluoridated toothpaste but it is important to help strengthen their teeth.  Dr. Harmon recommends using just a “smear” of toothpaste when brushing and to keep toothpaste out of reach otherwise.  You should also be flossing your child’s teeth the moment two teeth erupt next to each other.  Many of the cavities we see in younger children sit in between their teeth.  Early flossing habits will help prevent this and, again, gets your child into a routine.  As your child gets older have them brush and floss their own teeth with close supervision to make sure they are using safe techniques and getting everything clean.  Who knows, maybe helping your child create a healthy routine will help you keep up with your own healthy oral hygiene!

DON’T create unhealthy eating habits

We all know that we should be avoiding candy and sweets but there are many other foods that can be harmful to your child’s teeth that you may not know about.  When choosing a snack for your child try to keep to healthy snacks such as fruits and veggies, yogurt, cheese, and lean meats.  Some culprits that can really harm your child’s teeth include popcorn, ice, chewy foods, citrus, starchy foods, and juice.

Popcorn kernels and ice are much too hard for your child’s teeth to handle and can cause chips and cracks in the enamel. You wouldn’t believe that amount of phone calls we get from people eating popcorn!  Starchy, refined foods such as chips, crackers, bread, and cereal can be just as bad as candy.  These foods break down into simple sugars that linger in the mouth and cause decay.  Just think of how many times you give your child crackers or cheerios.  Chewy, sticky foods are one of the worst things for anyone’s teeth.  You make think they are eating healthy when you give them dried fruits but the sticky substance get stuck in between teeth and in the grooves of teeth and eat away tooth enamel.  And then there’s juice.  Giving a child juice is a common occurrence but many juices are packed with sugar and have little to no nutritional value.

Now we’re not telling you to cut all of these food items out of your child’s diet.  When you do give your children certain foods and beverages just make sure to clean their teeth well afterwards.  Some simple switches can also help keep their teeth healthy as well such as eating whole wheat foods instead of refined starchy foods and giving your child water rather than juice or soda.

DO avoid pacifiers, bottles, and thumb sucking

Bottles and pacifiers play a big role in your child’s life when they’re young but it is important to know when to wean your child from the bottle or pacifier.  Every child is different.  Some may kick the habit quickly and some may fight you tooth and nail to keep their bottle and pacifier around.  You are the best judge at when to wean your child from a pacifier but it is recommended to limit its use once your child starts to speak.  Pacifier’s put your child’s mouth in an unnatural position and talking around the pacifier can distort their speech.  A pacifier can also cause many different tooth problems such as causing openings in their bite, pushing teeth in unnatural directions (crooked), and creating gaps that may also cause lisps.  Limiting your child’s pacifier time or weaning them from it completely at an early age is best for their oral health. Finger and thumb sucking is very similar to using a pacifier and should be discouraged.

Bottle weaning, like the pacifier, is different for each child but the recommendation is to start weaning them from their bottle when they are about one.  At this point they have the dexterity and coordination to handle drinking from a cup.  Some pediatricians even recommend introducing your child to a sippy cup at six months old.  Sucking on a bottle has the same adverse effects as a pacifier but can also cause severe tooth decay often called bottle rot.  When the bottle spends a significant time in your mouth with milk and juices the sugar breaks down into harmful bacteria that eat through teeth quickly.  For good oral health it is best to wean your baby from bottles and pacifiers early.

DO realize that baby teeth ARE IMPORTANT!

We hear it all the time, baby teeth are just temporary so it really doesn’t matter if they get cavities, right? WRONG!  Baby teeth are just as important as permanent teeth.  They are used for chewing, speaking, and of course giving those cute smiles!  We can’t stress enough that creating good habits early is the most beneficial for your child’s oral health.  Never think that you can let your child’s oral health go uncared for just because they are “just baby teeth.”   Good habits today will keep your child’s smile healthy for the rest of their lives!

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