As a kids dentist, we treat many of the same issues in children as we do in adults. While the diseases and many of the cures are the same, this is where the similarities end. Children are generally inquisitive in nature and want to know everything that is going on. When you place a child in a dental office, even though we are a kid's dentist, they are going to have a level of apprehension. Surrounded by equipment, white coats everywhere, and a fear of the unknown can lead many children to become nervous. This fear then exacerbates their inability to help with a diagnosis. When you are working with adults, you simply have to ask them questions about their problems. This includes things like the location of the discomfort and when it started. Children are much less literal, so when you ask about a pain in their mouth, they are more likely to be vague. Trying to find out when something began can often mean relying on the parent for information since kids typically do not have a concept of time.

As a kids dentist, we are always concerned when a parent calls in asking about sensitivity in a child's teeth. Sensitivity often has a deeper root cause that is making the child unable to bite into something cold, hot, or often times sweet. We always want to know about sensitivity, and more than likely we will ask you to bring the child in for an examination. Toothaches and sensitivity are among the number one reason many kids will miss school and typically they are caused by cavities.

The problem we treat most frequently in children is cavities. A cavity is a small hole in the enamel of the tooth that is caused by decay. Most parents know that bacteria exists in the human mouth. This bacteria will attempt to colonize your child's teeth. In the process a thin film, known as plaque, will form on the teeth. If the plaque is not cleaned regularly, it will build up and can cause severe damage to the teeth. The bacteria in the plaque feed on sweet and starchy foods. When such elements are introduced the bacteria secretes acid, which in turn works to wear down the enamel of the tooth. Eventually, a cavity is formed.

There is, however, good news for parents. As a kids dentist, we know that cavities are among the easiest things to avoid. Avoiding a cavity involves two things. First, you have to be willing to restrict your child's access to foods that are high in starch and/or sugar. Second, you need to teach your child excellent oral hygiene habits since we all know how much children love sugar. Good habits include twice daily brushing, flossing, and rinsing after meals and snacks. We also suggest using a fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash to strengthen teeth and to help reduce their risk of getting cavities. They should also visit our kids dentist office at least two times every year for an examination and teeth cleaning.