What Should I Do If My Child Has a Toothache?

my child has a toothache Salt Lake City Utah

What Should I Do If My Child Has a Toothache?

kids dentist murray utah

Kids Dentist, Dr. Ari Hobfoll

My Child Has a Toothache, Salt Lake City, UT

If your child is suffering from a toothache, the best thing you can do is take them to see a pediatric dentist. Murray Utah is home to Kalidoscope Kids Kids Dentistry an emergency kids dentist that can help your child get relief from their toothache. Pediatric dentists have the training and experience to safely and effectively treat children’s teeth, and they can provide you with guidance on how to care for your child’s teeth at home. If you are concerned about your child’s toothache, don’t hesitate to contact a pediatric dentist in Murray Utah. We will be able to help your child get the relief they need.

“If you’re looking for a kind, knowledgeable, highly skilled, and compassionate pediatric dentist, Dr. Ari is your guy. I can’t recommend him enough. All around five-star kids dentist.”

How To Soothe A Toothache Until You Can Get To Your Child’s Dentist

At-home solutions for pediatric tooth pain can include using a cold compress on the outside of the child’s cheek, over the area where the tooth is. This will help with swelling and pain. You can also have your child rinse their mouth out with warm water mixed with salt, this will help to clean the area and reduce bacteria. If your child is in severe pain or there is bleeding, you should take them to see an emergency pediatric dentist as soon as possible. Dr. Ari may suggest a filling or cap, especially if it is a permanent tooth that is affected. 

my child has a toothache Salt Lake City Utah

Supporting Your Child Through A Toothache

When your child is suffering from a toothache, it is important to be compassionate and understanding. As the parent of a young child, you know how painful and frightening a toothache can be. Your child may experience significant discomfort and anxiety, so it is crucial that you are sensitive to their needs during this time.

If your child’s toothache becomes more serious, such as due to a cavity or a broken tooth, don’t hesitate to seek out professional care at your Salt Lake Pediatric Dentist. Our team has years of experience working with children and understands the importance of gentle care and compassion when working with pediatric patients. Additionally, if your child is new to dental care or seems apprehensive about seeing the dentist, we can work with them one-on-one to build trust and help make the visit an enjoyable experience.

So if you are looking for high-quality pediatric dentistry services in Salt Lake City, look no further than our skilled team at Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry. Schedule an appointment today and let us help your child regain their smile!

Silver Fillings Used in Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric dentistry and silver fillings Salt Lake UT

When Are Silver Fillings Used in Pediatric Dentistry?

kids dentist murray utah

Kids Dentist, Dr. Ari Hobfoll

Oral Hygiene In Kids

To help prevent tooth decay in your child, it is important to establish good oral hygiene habits early on. The first step is to begin brushing your child’s teeth as soon as the first tooth appears. This helps to get rid of food debris and plaque that can build up over time and lead to cavities in your child’s mouth. You should also brush the teeth, tongue, and gums twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, or help your child brush if they are too young to do it themselves. Additionally, you should use only a small amount of toothpaste for children under the age of 3, as they may be at risk of swallowing excess toothpaste and getting sick.

Practicing these simple steps can help keep your child’s teeth healthy and cavity-free in the long run. And when all else fails, it’s always a good idea to see your Salt Lake Pediatric Dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. After all, prevention is always easier than treating a problem once it has developed!

Many parents come to us with silver fillings in their kids’ mouths or wonder if we offer silver fillings. Today we share our thoughts on silver fillings in kids. 

About Silver Fillings For Kids

Dental amalgam is often made from a combination of metals that include silver, mercury, copper, and tin. It is sometimes referred to as silver-colored fillings. Dental amalgam has been used by dentists for decades due to its longevity and affordability compared to other filling materials like tooth-colored composites. It is also easier to place in the tooth than other types of fillings.

However, there are some concerns about the safety of dental amalgam, particularly in children. Studies have shown that dental amalgam fillings can release small amounts of mercury vapor, which can be harmful if inhaled. As a result, many dentists now recommend using alternative materials for fillings in children. At Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry, we use tooth-colored fillings for children, also known as composites, to fill cavities discreetly.

Pediatric dentistry and silver fillings Salt Lake UT

Murray Utah Pediatric Dentist 

At your Murray, UT pediatric dentist office, we understand the importance of ensuring that your child’s teeth are in good health. After all, good oral hygiene plays an essential role in your child’s overall health. Ensuring that your child’s teeth are taken care of is an essential part of parenting. We firmly believe in teaching children healthy practices from a young age, and this includes helping them to develop a routine of brushing their teeth twice per day.

However, if your child does happen to get a cavity or other oral health issue, we are here to help. Our team has extensive experience treating affected areas quickly and effectively, using proven silver filling techniques. Whether you have questions about our approach or want to schedule an appointment for treatment, we invite you to get in touch with us today and learn more about how we can support the dental health of your child. Let us help your little one stay happy and healthy!

Tooth Fairy Ideas For Parents

tooth fairy Ideas for parents Salt Lake City UT

Tooth Fairy Ideas For Parents

kids dentist murray utah

Kids Dentist, Dr. Ari Hobfoll

It's Toothfairy Time? What Are Appropriate Gifts For Kids?

The Tooth Fairy is a fun and exciting way to promote good dental hygiene for kids. But what if your child loses a tooth before you’re prepared? Here are some Tooth Fairy ideas to help you make the best of this important time in your child’s life.  

What Should Parents Do When A Child Loses Their First Tooth?

If your child loses a tooth during the day, have them put it under their pillow when they go to bed. If they lose it at night, put it under their pillow in the morning. Either way, the Tooth Fairy will come while they’re asleep and leave them a special present in exchange for their tooth. 

If you don’t want to keep track of teeth, you can always leave a note from the Tooth Fairy letting your child know that their tooth has been received and thanking them for taking care of their teeth. You can also include a special message about taking care of their teeth in the future.

Whatever you do, make sure you have a plan in place so you’re prepared when your child loses their first tooth. With a little preparation, the Tooth Fairy can be a fun and exciting part of your child’s dental care routine.

 

“Your smile is a little gappy. The tooth fairy is coming to leave you a little treat to make you happy.”

Try Tooth Mail From The Tooth Fairy 

Tooth Mail, or the practice of sending Tooth Fairy money by mail rather than simply leaving it under the child’s pillow, is a creative and engaging way to make the Tooth Fairy experience more special for kids. Some parents send gold coins from the tooth fairy or sweet notes with the details of the memory. 

If you want to provide proof that the tooth fairy has actually paid your child a visit, some parents use Tooth Fairy apps that allow parents to more seamlessly track when their child lost a tooth and how much money they received from Tooth Fairy.

Whether you use modernized Tooth Mail techniques or stick with traditional methods like leaving cash under your child’s pillow, the key is to make this exciting experience something that your child will remember for years to come.

 

tooth fairy Ideas for parents Salt Lake City UT

What if You Want To Avoid Tooth Fairy Money? 

When it comes to finding the perfect Tooth Fairy gift, many parents struggle with finding a gift or experience that will reward their child for a lost tooth!  With so many options available, from toys and trinkets, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for your little one. If you’re looking for an idea that doesn’t involve leaving money under the pillow, then we recommend creating an adventure in lieu of cash. A fun family activity allows kids to choose their own adventure and gives them the chance to explore new places and try exciting activities at their own pace. Whether they want to go exploring in the great outdoors or visit a local museum or zoo,  offering a Tooth Fairy sponsored adventure is sure to provide your child with the perfect Tooth Fairy gift that they can enjoy long after their wobbly tooth falls out. So why wait? Let your kiddo choose their next adventure today!

Tooth Fairy Fun In Salt Lake 

Losing a tooth is an important milestone in childhood, marking the transition from baby teeth to permanent ones. As such, it is something that all kiddos go through, and we love sharing our ideas for fun rewards. At our SLC pediatric dental office, we understand how kids and parents may feel during this time and strive to create a welcoming and supportive in-office experience. Our highly trained dentists are specially trained to provide gentle care to kiddos of all ages, ensuring their comfort and calm throughout their appointment. Whether you live in the Salt Lake City area or are simply looking for a reputable pediatric dental office for your little one, don’t hesitate to contact us today for more information about our pediatric dental services. We look forward to speaking with you soon!

 

Tooth Friendly Snacks

tooth friendly snacks

Tooth Friendly Snacks

kids dentist murray utah

Kids Dentist, Dr. Ari Hobfoll

Tooth friendly snacks
for your kiddo

Smart snacking entails both strategic snack-time planning and the selection of certain foods. Both can help to reduce the likelihood of tooth decay. Today on the blog, Dr. Hobfoll, the best pediatric dentist SLC, shares tooth friendly snacks for your kids. 

Why Is It That Snacking is More Likely to Cause Tooth Decay?

Bacteria that cause oral cavities feed on every carbohydrate source we consume, including sugar, bread, potatoes, rice, crackers, chips, pretzels, candies, fruit snacks, juice, and so on. Bacteria consume carbs and turn them into acid. Our pediatric dentist SLC explains that this acid causes a cavity.

Our saliva helps to neutralize the acid’s effects. However, if children nibble throughout the day, the constant acid production overwhelms the saliva’s ability to buffer or neutralize the acid, increasing the likelihood of cavities developing.

What is Smart Snacking?

Smart snacking entails reducing the frequency with which children nibble between meals and selecting foods superior in terms of type and texture to others. Our kids dentist near me explains that it is preferable to consume the entire snack at once rather than in small portions throughout the day. The bacteria that cause cavities get their energy from glucose.

Additionally, our kids dentist SLC explains that limiting chewy and sticky foods helps. These foods can become lodged in the grooves of the back teeth and remain there for extended periods, increasing the risk of cavities.

What Are Some Healthier Snack Options?

  • Whole foods that are minimally processed (like an apple) will always be superior to processed carbohydrate-rich diets for various reasons, including tooth health (like sugar-sweetened applesauce).
  • Snacks high in protein and low in carbohydrates are especially beneficial. Dr. Wade, family dentist Pinellas Park FL, explains that for example, nuts and part-skim cheese are excellent in this regard, and they also aid in developing strong teeth.
  • Although they may include some sugar, fruits and vegetables are a smart choice because they provide a variety of essential elements. Harder or crunchier alternatives, such as apples, celery, and carrots, are delicious.
  • Complex meals can help brush off dental plaque accumulation (a film of bacteria and carbohydrates that accumulates on teeth) similar to additional brushing. Sticky dried fruits, such as raisins, provide nutritious value but can become stuck in the grooves of back teeth.

What Else Should You Think About When Arranging Snacks?

Hard, crunchy foods like granola and trail mix are classified differently from candy bars, and sticky fruit treats. Although these goods are sometimes seen as healthful, they include many carbs. In addition, granola and trail mix, despite being crunchy, can quickly become lodged in the grooves of the teeth.

Juice, sports drinks, and soda should be consumed in moderation. Anything other than water (including milk) contains sugars and can cause cavities. If children consume beverages other than water, they should adhere to the same guidelines as snack food: drink in one sitting and limit the number of drinks consumed.

“Limiting chewy and sticky foods can help with your child’s oral health. These foods can become lodged in the grooves of the back teeth and remain there for extended periods, increasing the risk of cavities.” – Dr. Hobfoll, kids dentist in Murray Utah

Smart Snacking

Smart snacking is key for keeping teeth healthy at all ages. In addition, making children aware of excellent timing and choices and encouraging them to maintain good dental hygiene habits has various health benefits.

Contact Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry Today

Ready to get started with your kids oral health? Contact Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry today for a tooth cleaning. 

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Is Juice Bad For My Child’s Teeth?

Is Juice Bad For My Childs Teeth?

Is Juice Bad For My Child's Teeth?

kids dentist murray utah

Kids Dentist, Dr. Ari Hobfoll

Is Juice Really bad for my child's teeth?

Kids enjoy juice because it tastes fantastic, and parents love that their children drink juice since it is beneficial for them! After all, fruits are high in vitamins and nutrients that your youngster requires to be healthy. While this is true, allowing your child to drink too much juice may cause more harm than benefit. Today on the blog, our kids dentist in Murray Utah answers the question, “Is juice really bad for my child’s teeth?”

Isn’t Fruit Juice Good for You?

The fact that juice is derived from fruit does not imply that it is nutritious. In reality, this delightful beverage may have a lot less nutritional value than you think! Mixed juice blends, juice cocktails, juice drinks, and fruit punch typically include only trace amounts of juice. Instead, our pediatric dentist in Salt Lake City explains that these beverages are loaded with sugar, artificial sweeteners, and high-fructose corn syrup.

Even beverages made entirely of fruit juice may contain far more sugar than you believe. This is because the majority of popular fruits are high in natural sugars. As a result, our kids dentist near me explains that a glass of apple, grape, or cranberry juice contains the same amount of sugar as a glass of soda! 

3 Consequences of Drinking Juice

Did you know that the most frequent chronic childhood ailment is cavities? While various variables contribute to children having a higher risk of tooth decay than adults, many dentists think that juice drinking plays a significant influence.  Our friend Dr. Helgerson, dentist in Grand Junction Co, shares that three characteristics make juice such a complex drink for growing teeth:

Sugar Content: As you might expect, the more sugar your child consumes through juice, the more likely they are to develop cavities.

Nature of Acidity: Citrus fruits, in particular, are highly acidic. These acids swiftly and readily dissolve tooth enamel, leaving it fragile, sensitive, and susceptible to decay.

Method of Serving: The more juice your child drinks during the day, the more sugars accumulate around their teeth and gums, encouraging tooth decay and gum disease.

What to Drink in Its Place

While the amount of sugar in beverages targeted to children, such as juice, may appear overwhelming at first, there is no need to panic! Dr. Hobfoll, the best pediatric dentist in SLC, explains that there are still plenty of tasty drinks your child will like, as well as several techniques to make drinking juice safer for their teeth, such as:

Make sure children under the age of six drink no more than 6 ounces of juice per day, and children over the age of six glass no more than 12 ounces per day (as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics).

  • To minimize the impact of the juice, dilute it with water.
  • Make your fruit smoothies at home using honey instead of sugar.
  • Drink more milk, particularly low-sugar varieties such as almond, soy, rice, 2 percent, or nonfat dairy.
  • Drink more tap water, which is both healthy and often contains the vital mineral fluoride, which can help your child’s teeth stay strong!
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What to Do If Your Child Has a Loose Tooth

What to Do If Your Child Has a Loose Tooth

What to Do If Your Child Has a Loose Tooth

kids dentist murray utah

Kids Dentist, Dr. Ari Hobfoll

What to Do If Your Child Has a Loose Baby or Permanent Tooth

You and your child have a lot to look forward to when your youngster loses a tooth for the first time But, before that baby tooth wiggles its way out of your child’s mouth, let’s discuss how to deal with a loose baby tooth. Below, Dr. Hobfoll, the best pediatric dentist in SLC, shares his tips and tricks. 

Be Aware of Your Child’s Emotions

First, we recommend assuring your child that this is a regular part of development. It can be scary for your kiddos! So, if kids are worried about losing a tooth, children’s books can help soothe and entertain them.

Make Them Crunchy, Whole Snacks

Crunchy and wholesome meals like carrot sticks and apple slices can aid in the natural—and nutritious—falling out of a tooth.

Encourage Gentle Wriggling

There’s no need for youngsters to yank or tug; have your child try to gently wriggle their tooth with their tongue, or clean hands should suffice. If moving the teeth causes discomfort, it may not be ready to come out yet.

If a tooth is entirely ready but refuses to come out, you can assist your child without resorting to a thread and a doorknob. Instead, give our pediatric dentist office in SLC a call for some ideas on getting that baby tooth to the Tooth Fairy.

What Do I Do If My Child’s Tooth is Loose Before Its Time?

Our kids dentist in Muray Utah explains that although baby teeth are just transitory, they are vital to your child’s development. They aid in speech production, eating, and chewing, and act as placeholders for permanent teeth to erupt in the proper location and at the appropriate time.

There are some instances why a loose baby tooth necessitates a trip to the dentist:

  • Baby teeth often fall out over a period of years, typically between the ages of 6 and 12. Because children’s teeth tend to fall out in the same sequence they came in, if a molar becomes loose before the front teeth begin to wiggle, contact your dentist.
  • If your child has a fall, a sports injury, or any other type of event that causes a tooth or teeth to become loose, contact your doctor or dentist right away. They will use high tech dental technology, like an intraoral camera, to ensure there are no major injuries or the possibility of infection.
  • Make an appointment with your child’s dentist if you notice a tooth that should not be loose.

Finally, we’ve been discussing loose baby teeth, but loose permanent teeth are a very different story.

Loose Permanent Teeth

If your child has a loose permanent tooth due to an injury, a faulty bite, or night-time bruxism (tooth-grinding), or for any other reason, you must schedule an appointment right once. Then, our pediatric dentist in Murray Utah will be able to identify the source of the problem and propose some solutions. Also, make sure your child only eats soft foods and eats on the other side of the loose tooth. Instead of brushing and flossing, use gentle rinsing to clean the area.

Contact Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry Today

A loose baby tooth is an important milestone on your child’s path to a beautiful, healthy adult smile. Reassure, support, and assist your child through this rite of passage—and don’t be afraid to contact us for help!

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The Importance of Dental X-Rays

the importance of dental x rays

The Importance of Dental X-Rays

kids dentist murray utah

Kids Dentist, Dr. Ari Hobfoll

The Importance of Dental X-Rays For kids

Pediatric dental x-rays are an excellent tool to monitor your child’s oral health and healthy tooth growth as they develop. Your kids dentist in SLC may use this tool to help prevent and manage problems and an early diagnosis to improve treatment plans and outcomes. In today’s post, you’ll learn more about the importance of dental x-rays for children.

Is it true that children require more radiation?

Radiation is a big issue among parents and caregivers; from airport scanners to intelligent gadgets and electronics to microwaves in our homes, many are concerned about the increased levels of radiation that children are exposed to.

How Do They Benefit Kids?

Dr. Hobfoll, the best pediatric dentist in Murray Utah, Dental x-rays are necessary for both preventative and diagnostic purposes since they assist the dentist in understanding what is going on in your child’s mouth. Our kids dentist near me explains that dental x-rays help children in the following ways:

  • Detection of cavities (cavities between teeth that are difficult to see otherwise)
  • Observing how teeth are emerging and the location of the teeth within the gums
  • Examining missing or additional teeth
  • Looking for any dental infections
  • Determining whether or not orthodontic treatment is required
  • Identifying bone issues
  • Keeping an eye out for any dental traumas or mouth injuries

What Is the Best Age to Have Dental X-Rays?

While there is no set age at which your kid should have their first dental x-rays, Dr. O’Grady, the best dentist in Denver, explains that most dentists recommend that they get them by the age of five or six or when their permanent teeth begin to emerge.

If your kid is prone to cavities or has other oral problems, your kids dentist in SLC may request dental x-rays sooner.

How Often Should Children Have Dental X-Rays?

Depending on your child’s oral health, they may only require them once every few years or twice a year to check cavities or injuries.

“The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises that children get dental x-rays every six months, especially if they have had cavities in the past.” – Dr. Ari Hobfoll

Are X-Rays Uncomfortable for Children?

Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry dentists and hygienists handle x-rays lightheartedly and instructively; we want youngsters to feel at ease and confident about having their x-rays taken. We explain what an x-ray is and lead them through the procedure.

Dental x-rays are harmless, and children seldom suffer any discomfort. The most incredible thing is that kids can view a picture of their teeth after the x-rays, which is a lot of fun for them.

Are Dental X-Rays Necessary?

Oral x-rays are a safe technique that solely helps your child’s dental health by discovering hard-to-see cavities and other health concerns. Furthermore, x-rays are painless, and children like seeing their teeth! Contact our team today!

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How to Choose a Toothbrush For Your Child

How to choose a toothbrush for your child

How to Choose a Toothbrush For Your Child

kids dentist murray utah

Kids Dentist, Dr. Ari Hobfoll

Choosing a Child's Toothbrush

At Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry, we love helping parents make the best decisions for their little ones. We pride ourselves on parents and patient education. In fact, one of our most frequently asked questions is how to choose a toothbrush for your child. With so many options on the market, it can be a challenge. Luckily, our Pediatric Dentist in Murray Utah shares how to choose a toothbrush for your child. 

How to Choose a Toothbrush For Your Kiddos

If you’ve ever been to your local grocery store’s dental area, you’ll understand what we’re talking about. There are brushes with varying lengths of bristles, brushes that massage your gums, and brushes that change color when used. In addition, there are brushes that play songs, brushes that light up, and more. 

Choosing a Child’s Toothbrush

When choosing a toothbrush for a child, ensure sure it fits comfortably in their hand. If the size and angle are uncomfortable, the youngster will be less inclined to use it long enough to clean all mouthparts. Our dentist for kids Salt Lake City shares that a child-sized toothbrush is not always necessary. Some children prefer an adult-sized brush over a short, thin child-size brush. If you are doubtful, consult with your kids dentist near me.

Avoid Firm Bristles

The hardness of the bristles is a critical consideration. Stiff bristles may be more effective for cleaning charred meat from a grill or hard water deposits from a shower floor. However, this is not the case with your teeth. Our friend Dr. Boals, dentist Colorado Springs, shares that brushes with a medium or hard-bristle might cause gum injury. The bristles of soft and extra-soft toothbrushes are firm enough to remove plaque, food particles, and surface stains from your teeth. Soft bristles are also more adaptable for reaching hard-to-reach nooks and crevices.

Get Your Child Involved

We want your child to be excited about their oral health. Dr. Hobfoll, the best pediatric dentist in SLC, shares that letting your child pick out their toothbrush is a great idea. Having a toothbrush that plays their favorite song, is their favorite color, or is an excellent, funky shape, is an easy way to get your kiddo excited to brush. 

“Our team at Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry will do everything possible to avoid cavities with frequent cleanings and examinations. We are highly qualified to provide your children with high-quality, cutting-edge dental treatment while developing excellent dental habits that they can carry with them at home.” – Dr. Ari Hobfoll

Plan A Dental Cleaning For Your Child

Are your child’s toothbrush and brushing methods effective? We can help you find out. Our exceptional dental hygienists at Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry teach our patients of all ages to correct brushing practices.

Cavities can emerge when your child’s teeth are exposed to sugary or carbohydrate-containing meals. Sugars and carbs can build upon and around your child’s teeth after they eat, causing plaque to form on the enamel. As a result, your children may develop cavities. Fortunately, we specialize in Children’s Cavity Prevention.  In addition, we will work hard to instill a passion for brushing and flossing in your child, resulting in better checkups and fewer cavities. Contact Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry today to learn more!

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Baby Teething Tips

baby teething tips

Baby Teething Tips

kids dentist murray utah

Kids Dentist, Dr. Ari Hobfoll

Baby Teething Tips From your slc pediatric dentist

Your newborn infant is born with 20 teeth hidden behind the gum line. Before you realize it, your cheerful baby has become irritable and prone to drooling regularly. The first tooth typically emerges between 6 months and one year and can be hard on your little one. Today on the blog, Dr. Hobfoll, the best pediatric denitst Murray Utah, shares baby teething tips. 

Teething Signs in Your Baby

When your baby starts teething, it may be a challenging period. There are, however, a variety of baby teething strategies to assist in comforting your youngster. If your infant is approximately six months old (time varies), you may notice the following teething symptoms:

  • Gums that are either sore or sensitive.
  • Drooling
  • Irritability
  • Chewing
  • A rash of drool around the mouth

Typically, the first tooth to develop is one of the bottom incisors. It is a good idea to check your child’s gums for any lumps that might indicate freshly emerging teeth. Teething may take longer for some newborns than others, so infants may experience symptoms months before a tooth shows.

Additionally, our kids dentist near me explains that gums can be soothed in a variety of ways. The most effective therapies are pressure, using cold things, and giving your infant something safe to chew. It’s heartbreaking to see your kid begin teething and experience continual agony, so try these strategies to help alleviate the ache.

Gently Massage the Gums

Applying pressure to your baby’s gums may help relieve the pain. Our friends over at OG Dental, family dentist Denver CO, recommend laying your infant on the bed after carefully cleansing your hands and softly massaging their gums with your finger. This may assist your infant in relaxing and falling asleep. If your infant wakes up in the middle of the night, you might try touching their gums again.

Use a Cold Washcloth or Rag

It is a good idea to soak a clean towel in water. Our pediatric dentist in SLC explains that the water should be wrung out until it is wet. The cloths should then be placed in the refrigerator or freezer to chill.

When the washcloth is cool enough to handle, fold it and give it to your baby to gnaw on. If your infant is chewing on something, even a washcloth, you should never leave them alone since this might pose a choking hazard.

Chill Pacifier or Teething Toy

If your child takes a pacifier, you can use it to chill it down and calm their gums. First, you should clean the pacifier and store it in the refrigerator. The cooling may numb the gums and reduce some of the discomforts.

Our pediatric dentist SLC explains that you may use the same procedure with teething toys. You may store any solid teething toys in the refrigerator. Toys that are loaded with liquid or gel should be avoided since they may spill.

Wipe Away Any Excessive Drool

It is beneficial to have your infant wear a bib when teething. Babies have a propensity to drool and wet their clothes.

Make it a point to clean away drool from your baby’s face to avoid additional irritation. To prevent a rash, your child’s face should be kept dry.

Freeze Some Fruit

If your kid has started eating solid meals, you might try freezing some of them to help calm inflamed gums. Chilled mashed bananas are an excellent starting point! Other fruits can be placed in a mesh feeder for your baby to suck on. The mesh feeder will assist in preventing choking. Chilled apples, pears, or strawberries are just a few examples of fruit you might try. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on your kid at all times and make sure they are old enough to attempt these delights.

Additional Cuddling Time

Extra snuggle time is sometimes the most excellent approach to treat a baby in pain. Rocking your baby in an oversized chair or carrying your infant around the home (in a baby carrier) are also excellent options. The additional cuddling time will help you both get some much-needed slumber.

Medications for Pain

As a last option, you might discuss the possibility of supplying over-the-counter pain medicine with your doctor. These medications assist to relieve discomfort and allow the infant to sleep. Again, your doctor can advise you on the proper dosage and the best sort of pain medication to use.

It is best to avoid teething gels and pills containing lidocaine or benzocaine. They can be hazardous and frequently numb a baby’s mouth, creating swallowing problems.

Questions about your child’s oral health? We’re here for you! Contact our Pediatric Dentist in SLC today to learn more. 

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Bad Foods For Your Child’s Teeth

bad foods for your childs teeth slc pediatric dentist

Bad Food For Your Child's Teeth

kids dentist murray utah

Kids Dentist, Dr. Ari Hobfoll

The Worst Foods For Your Child's Teeth

As a parent, there are so many decisions you must make for your child. When it comes to your child’s dental health, it is so important to ensure optimal oral health techniques from an early age. As follows, our team at Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry are parents themselves. We understand how tough it can be to keep your children on a healthy diet. While we know that the occasional sweet treat or junk-food snack is enjoyable (and of course, needed from time to time!) there are smart choices that you can make for your child. Our Pediatric Dentist in Murray Utah wants to educate our patients and their parents about the impact food have on their smile.

Foods to Avoid For a Healthy Smile

Today on the blog, to assist you in avoiding some of the most prevalent cavity-causing offenders, we’ve compiled a list of the worst foods for your child’s teeth. Read our tips from our Kids Dentist in SLC to learn more.

Soda

The top rank on this list should come as no surprise! Soda’s high sugar and acid content harm your teeth and health. Sugar feeds bacteria in your mouth, producing more acid, which destroys your enamel. Cavities and discoloration will result as a result of this over time. However, if your child does love a glass of soda from time to time, please make sure they brush and floss afterward.

Pastries

Foods heavy in carbohydrates (such as pizza, potato chips, white bread, and so on) can also be bad for your teeth. This is because starches are frequently sticky. Thus, they become lodged in the spaces between teeth. If they remain in your mouth, they degrade into simple sugars. This then provides a delightful feast for your oral bacteria and an increased risk of tooth decay!

Sticky Candy

Sugary candies are all terrible for your teeth. Sticky candies, on the other hand (such as caramel, lollipops, sugary gum, jellybeans, and so on) inflict much more harm since they adhere to the surfaces of teeth. This gives a more extended breeding environment for acid-producing bacteria. Therefore, if you consume any sticky candy, rinse your mouth with water afterward. As a result, this helps wash away the sugary residue from your teeth.

“We understand how tough it can be to keep your children on a healthy diet. While we know that the occasional sweet treat or junk-food snack is enjoyable (and of course, needed from time to time!) there are smart choices that you can make for your child.” – Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry

Juice

Although juices frequently contain essential vitamins and minerals, most fruit juices are heavy in calories, sugar, and citric acid. Citric acid erodes tooth enamel and can cause cavities. To lessen the harmful effects of the liquid, rinse your mouth with water after drinking it, just like you would with sweets. Our friend Dr. Kacos, the best dentist in Shreveport LA, recommends consuming fruit juice in moderation and swallowing most of your fruit fresh and whole!

Dried Fruit 

Although dried fruit appears to be a healthy snack, its high sugar content and sticky texture raise the risk of cavities. Because dried fruit contains a lower proportion of water and vitamins per serving, fresh fruit is a healthier option that will satisfy your sweet taste.

Join Our No Cavity Club Today

Our experts at Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry will do everything possible to avoid cavities with frequent cleanings and examinations. Our Pediatric Dentist Salt Lake is highly qualified to provide your children with high-quality, cutting-edge dental treatment while developing excellent dental habits that they can carry with them at home. We will work hard to instill a passion of brushing and flossing in your child, resulting in better checkups and fewer cavities. Contact us today!

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