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My son lost a permanent tooth. What are some options to get it repaired?

If an accident has caused an adult tooth to be knocked out, there are some key factors to consider. The best place for the tooth is back in the mouth where it was originally located. Putting the tooth back provides the best chance of having fewer long term problems with the tooth. Parents will need to rinse the tooth as best they can, reinsert the tooth, and immediately see a dental professional. If there are reasons that the tooth cannot be replaced, the most readily available option is to put the tooth in some milk. Milk can preserve the tooth as you get immediately to a dentist.

How can I help my child deal with discomfort from braces?

One of the biggest concerns of patients and parents is about the potential pain from braces. The pain from braces is a lot like a bruise on your arm: It only hurts when you touch it. When patients are chewing food, it is similar to touching a bruise and is uncomfortable. The good news is that the pain is not a continual, throbbing pain. Most patients spend most of the day with their teeth apart and are not in pain. Pain can be best managed with over-the-counter pain medicines. Chewing sugar-free gum is also a good pain management technique, as the gum will dissipate the pain quicker after appointments.

What is baby bottle tooth decay and how can I prevent it?

“Baby bottle tooth decay” can develop when children’s teeth and gums are exposed to milk, juice or food for long periods of time or frequently throughout the day. The most common way this happens is when children go to bed with formula, milk or juice. It can also occur when children carry a snack and a milk or juice drink around with them throughout the day. For optimal dental health, food and drink other than water should only be served at designated meal and snack times, allowing the teeth to rest from sugar in between feedings. Food and drinks other than water should never be served right before nap or bedtime without first properly brushing.

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