Taking care of your child’s health includes more than just regular checkups with a pediatrician. A healthy smile starts early, and one of the most common questions parents ask is: “When should kids go to the dentist?” A good question—and the answer may astonish you.

Many parents wait until their child has all their baby teeth or starts school. They think this is the right time for dental visits. But experts say it’s important to begin much sooner.

This guide walks through the ideal timing for your child’s first dental visit, how to make it a smooth experience, and why starting early can make a world of difference in their oral health.

 

The Best Age for a First Dental Visit

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child should see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months after the first tooth comes in—whichever comes first.

This recommendation often surprises parents, especially if their baby only has one or two visible teeth. But the truth is, dental problems can begin early. Even a single tooth can develop decay if not properly cleaned or monitored.

So, when do kids need to go to the dentist?

The clear answer: By age one.

The early months are critical for:

• Establishing good oral care habits
• Monitoring developmental concerns
• Preventing cavities before they start

 

Why So Early? What’s the Rush?

Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease—and it can begin as soon as the first tooth appears. That’s why dentists want to get ahead of potential issues before they become painful or expensive to treat.

In addition to checking for cavities, early visits allow your dentist to evaluate:

• Teething progress and tooth eruption patterns
• Bite development (how the top and bottom teeth come together)
• Gum health and oral tissue appearance
• Pacifier or thumb-sucking habits that may affect future alignment
• Tongue function and possible tongue-tie

Not just about the teeth—oral development starts at birth and evolves quickly. Early dental care gives you a head start in keeping things on track.

 

What Happens During the First Visit?

If you’re nervous about taking your baby or toddler to the dentist, you’re not alone. But the first visit is designed to be low-pressure, educational, and brief. The goal is to create a positive experience—not to do any major procedures.

Here’s what a typical first visit includes:

• A gentle look at the gums, mouth, and any erupted teeth
• Monitoring of jaw growth and oral muscle development
• A discussion about feeding, brushing, and nighttime routines
• Evaluation of thumb-sucking or pacifier use
• Fluoride application if recommended by the dentist
• A Q&A session for you to ask any questions or raise concerns

Many pediatric dental offices use a “knee-to-knee” setup for infants. In this setup, the child sits on your lap and leans back toward the dentist. This makes the child feel secure while still allowing the dentist full access.

 

How Often Should Children Go to the Dentist?

After that first visit around age one, children should generally see the dentist every six months. These routine visits allow your child’s provider to monitor growth and catch any developing problems early.

However, if your child has a higher risk of tooth decay or a developmental concern, your dentist may recommend more frequent checkups.

These appointments often include:

• Cleanings to remove plaque and buildup
• Fluoride treatments for added protection
• Dental sealants on molars (for school-aged children)
• Ongoing guidance on brushing, flossing, and nutrition

 

Dental Milestones by Age Group

0–12 Months

• First visit by age one
• Teeth may begin erupting around 6 months
• Wipe gums with a soft cloth after feeding
• Introduce a soft-bristled toothbrush and water once teeth appear

1–3 Years

• Routine visits begin
• Brush twice daily with a smear of fluoride toothpaste
• Limit juice and sticky snacks
• Start flossing once teeth begin touching

3–5 Years

• Teach your child to brush on their own (supervise closely)
• Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste
• Look for early signs of crowding or misalignment

6–12 Years

• Permanent teeth begin erupting
• Consider sealants for back molars
• Early orthodontic screenings may be recommended around age 7

 

When Should Kids Go to the Dentist Or Go Sooner Than Scheduled?

While routine dental visits are important, some symptoms or behaviors mean it’s time to schedule an extra appointment. Be on the lookout for:

• Brown or white spots on the teeth – these could signal early decay
• Persistent bad breath – sometimes caused by bacteria buildup or gum issues
• Tooth sensitivity or complaints of pain
• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Late eruption of teeth or crowding
• Teeth grinding, clenching, or mouth breathing
• Ongoing thumb-sucking past age 3

Even if your child isn’t showing signs of discomfort, addressing these habits early can help avoid problems later.

 

What If My Child Is Nervous About the Dentist?

Dental anxiety is common—even in adults! For kids, unfamiliar sounds, tools, and people can be overwhelming. The key is to make dental visits feel normal and non-threatening.

Here’s how to make it easier:

• Talk about the visit in a positive way (“The dentist will count your teeth!”)
• Read children’s books about dental checkups ahead of time
• Choose an appointment time when your child is rested and fed
• Bring a comfort item like a favorite toy or blanket
• Let your child watch an older sibling or parent at a dental visit first

At Grin Pediatric Dentistry, we focus on making the environment welcoming and calm. Our team is trained to work with young children and knows how to keep visits light and friendly.

 

Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist Over a General Dentist?

While general dentists are trained to treat patients of all ages, pediatric dentists complete additional years of specialized training focused on kids.

They’re experienced in treating infants, toddlers, and teen and in managing behavior, dental fears, and developmental conditions unique to younger patients.

At Grin Pediatric Dentistry, we offer:

• A fun, child-centered space designed to ease anxiety
• Gentle, age-appropriate care from experienced providers
• Consistent monitoring from baby teeth to braces
• Support for parents on every stage of oral development

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Why do you need to take my baby to the dentist?

Yes. Even one tooth is enough to develop a cavity. Early visits help prevent bigger issues and provide guidance on cleaning and nutrition.

What if my child doesn’t have any teeth yet?

If no teeth have erupted by age 12 months, the dentist can still check for developmental concerns and offer tips on oral care for the months ahead.

How do I brush my baby’s teeth?

Use a soft baby toothbrush with water or a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. Brush twice daily, especially before bedtime.

How can I tell if my child has a cavity?

You might see white, brown, or black spots—or your child may complain of pain. But often, only a dentist can detect cavities early, which is why regular dental visits are key.

 

The Bottom Line: When Should Kids Go to the Dentist?

Let’s keep it simple:

• First visit: By age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth
• Routine care: Every 6 months, unless your dentist recommends otherwise
• Why it matters: Early care prevents cavities, supports healthy development, and builds lifelong comfort with dental care

Still unsure? Ask yourself this: if your child’s smile matters (and it does), why wait?

Book Your Child’s First Dental Visit

At Grin Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to support your child’s oral health from their crucial first tooth. Our team understands how to make dental care gentle, informative, and even fun. Book your child’s first dental visit today

If your child needs braces, one of the first choices you’ll need to make is between traditional metal braces and clear orthodontic braces. Both are effective in straightening teeth and improving oral health, but each comes with its own set of benefits—depending on your child’s age, comfort level, and treatment goals.

In this guide, we’ll explore the key differences between metal dental braces and clear alternatives, outline the most common types of braces for kids, walk you through the treatment process, and provide the insights you need to confidently choose the best option for your child.

 

What Are Braces and Why Are They Important for Kids?

Braces are orthodontic devices that gradually move teeth into their correct positions. For children, they’re often used to treat issues like crooked teeth, spacing problems, crowding, or bite misalignment. Beyond improving the appearance of a smile, braces also support better chewing, clearer speech, and long-term oral health.

 

Teeth Braces Types for Children

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to braces. Thankfully, orthodontics now offers different options tailored to your child’s needs, lifestyle, and age.

1. Traditional Metal Braces

Metal mouth braces (also called metal dental braces) are the most commonly used braces for kids. They involve small metal brackets attached to the teeth, connected by a wire that’s adjusted over time to move teeth into place.

Why choose metal braces?

• They’re strong and reliable
• They work well for all kinds of alignment issues
• They’re typically the most budget-friendly
• Many kids enjoy picking fun rubber band colors for each visit

 

2. Clear Orthodontic Braces (Ceramic Braces)

Clear orthodontic braces function much like metal ones, but instead of silver brackets, they use ceramic or tooth-colored materials that blend with natural teeth. This makes them less noticeable.

Why parents and teens like them:

• They’re more discreet
• They’re effective for most orthodontic problems
• They suit older kids or teens who feel self-conscious about wearing braces

Things to keep in mind:

• Ceramic brackets can be more fragile than metal ones
• They may stain over time without good hygiene

 

3. Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign® Teen)

Clear aligners are a removable option that gently moves teeth using a series of plastic trays. Your child wears each set of aligners for about two weeks before switching to the next one.

Advantages:

• Almost invisible when worn
• No wires or brackets
• Can be removed for eating, brushing, or special occasions

Considerations:

• Best for mild to moderate orthodontic issues
• Kids must wear them consistently (20–22 hours a day)
• Not ideal for younger children who may misplace or forget to wear them

 

Metal Mouth Braces vs. Clear Orthodontic Braces

Choosing between metal and clear braces involves more than just appearance. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you weigh your options:

Feature	Metal Braces	Clear Braces
Appearance	Very visible	Blend with tooth color
Durability	Extremely strong	More prone to chipping
Cost	More affordable	Higher cost
Best for	All treatment levels	Mild to moderate issues
Cleaning	Easy to manage	Requires more care to avoid stains

 

Both options can deliver excellent results. It comes down to your child’s specific case, their habits, and what they feel most comfortable wearing.

 

How to Get Teeth Braces for Your Child

Wondering where to start? Here’s what the process typically looks like when getting braces for your child:

Step 1: Book a Consultation

A pediatric dentistry will evaluate your child’s teeth, bite, and jaw to determine if braces are needed and what type would work best.

Step 2: X-Rays and Digital Imaging

To get a complete picture of your child’s oral structure, the orthodontist may take X-rays, scans, or impressions. This helps them map out a personalized treatment plan.

Step 3: Review Treatment Options

You’ll review the pros and cons of different options, such as traditional metal braces or clear orthodontic braces, and decide on a plan together.

Step 4: Getting Braces

During the appointment, the braces are carefully placed on your child’s teeth. This process is simple and typically takes about an hour.

Step 5: Regular Follow-Ups

Your child will return every few weeks for checkups and adjustments. These visits are essential to keep the orthodontic treatment on track and ensure progress.

 

How to Choose the Right Type of Braces

Not sure which braces are right for your child? Here are a few points to consider:

• Age and Responsibility: Younger kids may do better with metal braces, which are sturdy and don’t rely on daily discipline like aligners.
• Appearance: Teens often prefer ceramic braces or aligners for a less visible look.
• Complexity: More complicated cases usually respond best to metal braces.
• Budget: Traditional metal braces are usually the most cost-effective.
• Hygiene Habits: Clear braces require excellent brushing to avoid staining.

Your orthodontist will help you choose the best fit based on your child’s needs and your family’s goals.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the right age to get braces?

Most kids start between ages 9 and 14, but early evaluations around age 7 can help catch issues before they become more serious.

Will braces hurt?

Braces can cause mild soreness after placement or adjustments. This usually lasts a few days and can be managed with soft foods and over-the-counter pain relief.

How long will my child need to wear braces?

The average time is 18 to 24 months, but this varies depending on the complexity of the case and how well instructions are followed.

Can kids play sports with braces?

Absolutely. A mouthguard is recommended for contact sports to protect the braces and teeth.

Do certain foods need to be avoided?

Yes. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can damage braces and should be limited.

Final Thoughts

Starting orthodontic treatment is an important milestone in your child’s dental journey. Whether you go with metal mouth braces, metal dental braces, or clear orthodontic braces, the key is choosing a solution that suits your child’s needs and helps them feel confident throughout the process.

At Grin Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we’re committed to delivering expert care tailored specifically for children. Our focus is on creating a comfortable, supportive experience—so your child can enjoy not only a straighter smile, but a healthier, happier one for years to come.

Ensuring proper oral hygiene is essential for a child’s overall health and well-being. While brushing teeth and flossing are widely emphasized, an often-overlooked aspect of kids’ oral hygiene is tongue cleaning. The tongue harbors bacteria, food particles, and dead cells, which, if not removed, may contribute to bad breath and other oral health concerns.

This article explores the importance of tongue brushing for kids, its benefits, the appropriate techniques, and whether a tongue scraper for kids is a suitable option.

The Importance of Tongue Brushing for Kids

1. Reducing Bacteria and Plaque Accumulation

Bacteria are not only present on the teeth and gums but also accumulate on the tongue. If left uncleaned, the tongue can become a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms that contribute to plaque formation and oral infections.

2. Preventing Halitosis (Bad Breath)

One of the leading causes of persistent bad breath in children is bacterial buildup on the tongue. Regular tongue brushing kids teeth helps remove these bacteria and food debris, significantly reducing halitosis.

3. Supporting Overall Oral Health

Oral health for kids extends beyond tooth and gum care. A clean tongue reduces the likelihood of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health complications.

4. Enhancing Taste Sensation

A coated tongue can diminish a child’s ability to taste food properly. Regular cleaning ensures that taste buds function optimally, enhancing their overall eating experience.

At What Age Should Children Begin Tongue Brushing?

Children can begin tongue cleaning as early as two years old. Initially, using a damp washcloth or a soft toothbrush is recommended for younger children. As they develop better motor skills, typically around the age of six or seven, they can transition to a tongue scraper for kids under parental supervision.

Proper Tongue Cleaning Techniques for Children

1. Selecting the Appropriate Cleaning Tool

• Soft-bristled toothbrush – A regular toothbrush can be used for tongue cleaning.
• Tongue scraper for kids – Specially designed scrapers gently remove bacteria and buildup.
• Silicone tongue brushes – These are soft and easy for young children to handle.

2. Step-by-Step Tongue Brushing Process

Encourage the child to extend their tongue outward.
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush or tongue scraper, gently clean from the back of the tongue to the front.
Apply light pressure to avoid discomfort.
If using a scraper, rinse it between strokes to remove buildup.
Rinse the mouth thoroughly after cleaning.

3. Incorporating Tongue Cleaning into a Daily Routine

Encourage children to brush their tongue twice daily along with their healthy teeth.
Use a mirror to help them see and understand the process.
Make the experience engaging by setting a timer or playing a song while brushing.

Comparing a Tongue Scraper and a Toothbrush for Tongue Cleaning

Feature	Toothbrush	Tongue Scraper
Ease of Use	Convenient, part of regular brushing routine	Effective but may need parental guidance for younger kids
Effectiveness	Removes surface debris; less effective at deep cleaning	Removes more bacteria and buildup from the tongue’s surface
Safety	Very safe; minimal risk of injury	Safe when used gently; may cause discomfort if misused
Recommended Age	Suitable for all ages, including toddlers	Ideal for children aged 6 and above

Both tools can aid in proper tongue hygiene. For older children who can manage more precision, a tongue scraper may offer more effective results. However, toothbrushes are easier for younger kids to use as part of their normal brushing routine.

Both tools are effective, but a tongue scraper for kids may provide a more thorough cleaning experience for older children.

Common Concerns About Tongue Brushing in Children

1. My Child Has a Strong Gag Reflex. How Can I Help?

Encourage starting from the middle of the tongue rather than the back.
Use a smaller toothbrush or tongue scraper designed for children.
Advise the child to breathe through their nose to reduce the gag reflex.

2. Can Tongue Brushing Be Harmful?

When performed correctly, tongue brushing is safe and beneficial. Children should be instructed to use gentle pressure to avoid irritation or discomfort.

3. Is a Tongue Scraper Necessary for Children?

While a toothbrush is sufficient for tongue cleaning, a tongue scraper for kids may provide a more thorough removal of bacteria and debris. Parents should choose a child-friendly scraper made of soft, flexible material.

Consequences of Neglecting Tongue Cleaning

Failing to clean the tongue regularly can lead to several oral health concerns, including:

• Persistent bad breath due to bacterial accumulation.
• Increased risk of cavities and gum disease caused by lingering bacteria.
• A coated tongue, which may impair the child’s sense of taste.
• Heightened susceptibility to oral infections resulting from excessive bacterial growth.

Conclusion: Should Your Child Brush Their Tongue?

Yes, tongue brushing should be an essential component of a child’s oral hygiene routine. By incorporating tongue brushing for kids, parents can help prevent bad breath, reduce the risk of dental problems, and promote optimal oral health for kids.
Whether using a toothbrush or a tongue scraper for kids, establishing a comprehensive kids’ oral hygiene routine that includes tongue cleaning will contribute to a healthier, fresher smile.

Is SDF Right For Your Child?

Silver Diamine Fluoride application is a common tooth decay treatment and prevention option in babies, toddlers, and children. As a parent, you are likely wondering if silver diamine fluoride (SDF) application is really right for your child.

 

Who makes a good SDF candidate?

SDF is oftentimes the ideal in the following situations:

• Babies and toddlers: This is the least-invasive option to treat baby tooth decay. It can also keep teeth from decaying further. Some parents wonder if it’s necessary to treat baby tooth decay since the teeth will fall out—it is necessary. Children need strong, healthy teeth to chew their food and to speak.
• Multiple cavities: SDF application can cover up to eight teeth at once. Filling multiple cavities takes longer and is less comfortable for children, making this the preferred option for kids with multiple cavities.
• Special needs: Children of all ages with special needs may not have the ability to restrict their own movement enough to receive numbing. They also may not understand the process enough to remain calm. SDF can treat their cavities in just minutes, without causing undue distress.
• Older kids: Kids up to age 13 can deal with tooth decay in baby teeth while their permanent teeth come in. With a skilled application, SDF can keep decaying baby teeth from negatively impacting surrounding permanent teeth as they emerge and develop.
• Genetic predisposition: If you have a family history of easily getting cavities, SDF can lower your children’s risk of getting cavities.

Limitations:

SDF is not recommended if your child has:

• A silver allergy
• Significant damage to their front teeth
• Been diagnosed with gingivitis or lichen planus
• Or if they don’t want to have stained teeth at all

 

Silver diamine fluoride application is internationally recognized for its safety and effectiveness in treating and preventing cavities. SDF is a commonly used tooth decay treatment option in infants all the way through the loss of the last baby tooth. Additionally, it has a lower cost and requires less time at the dentist than traditional fillings. If you have any questions or would like a consultation, contact our office.

Learn More About Silver Diamine Fluoride

 

All Things Frenectomy at Grin Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics

Frenectomy Procedures

A frenectomy is a simple surgical procedure that involves the removal of one or both of the frenum from the mouth. The frenum is a connective tissue membrane that attaches one surface within the mouth to another. Frenum means bridle in Latin, and this term is used because it restricts tongue movements when it is connected by a frenulum between two surfaces inside of the mouth or pharynx. The two types of frenum are known as the labial frenum and the lingual frenum. In some cases, a frenectomy can help with breastfeeding and relieving respiratory issues.

•  Labial Frenectomy: A labial frenectomy is a procedure that removes the small tissue connecting the upper lip to the gum between your two front teeth. It can also cause gum recession by lifting the gums off of the jawbone.
• Lingual Frenectomy: The lingual frenum is a small fold of tissue in the middle of the underside of the tongue. It can be positioned too far forward, which can cause it to over-tighten and restrict your tongue’s movement when it comes to speaking, singing, and eating. Lingual frenum, also known as being “tongue-tied,” can also impede an infant’s ability to latch during breastfeeding or eat from a bottle.

 Benefits

There are several benefits to having a frenectomy. Those include: 

• Improves appetite and eating in infants and children
• Improves speech function
• Improves bite function
• Helps to reduce pain and discomfort
• Promotes self-confidence in children and teens by eliminating gaps in the smile

 What Happens After a Frenectomy

In most cases, the pain from a frenectomy is mild, and it heals quickly. The patient can have normal function of the lips and tongue. Many patients hardly notice the effects of the surgery.

 For more information about frenectomies and if one is right for your child, contact one of our Colorado locations. We’re always happy to explain more and help you decide if it’s right for your child. 

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How To Stop Your Child From A Thumb-Sucking Habit

Young children and babies learn to suck their thumb as a natural reflex. It becomes innate behavior because they had to suckle their milk to get nutrition when they were young. It is a self-soothing behavior and can stay with them as they grow. At first, this habit may seem harmless, but it can eventually lead to a changing mouth shape, which creates an overbite. If your child doesn’t break this habit before their permanent teeth come in, there is a chance that their palate may need correcting along with braces to straighten their teeth. 

Ways to Help Your Child Stop The Habit:

• Use positive reinforcement. Always praise and reward your child when they don’t suck their thumb – this can be done through reward charts or gentle reminders. 

• Keep the hands busy and provide distraction. You won’t be able to keep your child distracted at all times, but this can work in conjunction with other methods. These methods can include: Using fidget toys, arts and crafts, dancing, writing, jewelry making, sports, baking, baking, etc. 

• Thumb guards. Thumb guards can be a great solution for your child because it allows them to still engage in daily activities without much difficulty. The sides of the thumbguard have air holes so your child cannot create suction when trying to suck it. Your pediatric dentist may have suggestions as to what brand to use. 

Always remember to praise your child and not ridicule or make them feel bad for this behavior – the damage of doing this can be lifelong and could do nothing to help them. In order for your child to break their thumb-sucking habit, you’ll need to keep it positive and upbeat to encourage them. 

At Grin Pediatric Dentistry we work with you and your child to break their thumb-sucking habits. We know that once it becomes a habit, it is very hard to break. With the use of positive reinforcement, healthy distractions, and thumb guards, we can help stop your child from sucking their thumb. 

 

Teaching how to develop good dental habits in children is essential in ensuring children are set for a lifetime of healthy smiles. At Grin Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we have the resources and tips to make your little ones excited about taking care of their teeth!

When Should Dental Hygiene Practices Start?

Taking care of your baby’s teeth should begin on day one. After your baby has finished eating, it is important to wipe their gums off with a washcloth and warm water.

As your baby grows and begins teething and eating solids, begin using a silicone finger brush and warm water after each meal. Once your baby’s first tooth has erupted, you can begin placing a small amount of fluoride toothpaste (no larger than a grain of rice) on their toothbrush and brush twice a day.

Schedule your baby’s first pediatric dental appointment between when their first tooth appears, between 6 and 8 months, and their first birthday. The dentist will perform a thorough exam to make sure your child’s teeth, gums, and mouth are healthy. This will also help your child become familiar with the sights and sounds of the dentist.

How To Make Dental Care Exciting:

Let Them Pick Out A Special Toothbrush and Other Products:

Many department and retail stores carry unique, colored and character toothbrushes. Bringing your child to the store and letting them pick out their own toothbrush will make them want to brush their teeth more often as they’ll be excited to use their very own special toothbrush. Just be sure to buy a soft-bristled toothbrush. Let them choose their own toothpaste while they’re at it! They can choose from exciting flavors like strawberry and bubblegum!

Play Dental Games:

Download kid-friendly oral health apps from the App-Store that have educational games to teach about flossing and brushing. These games will make kids excited to practice the skills they learned on their own teeth. You can also encourage them to play pretend and be a dentist for their stuffed animals by practicing brushing and flossing the toy’s teeth. You can also turn brushing into a game with plaque disclosing tablets- have your age appropriate child chew one of these tablets to color all the plaque on their teeth, then see how much of the plaque they can remove by brushing!

Play Music or Use a Fun Timer:

Play your child’s favorite song or some upbeat music while they brush their teeth. Doing so will encourage them to brush for the full 2 minutes. There are also kid-friendly timers you can download in the App-Store that allow kids to pick out a certain theme or character that pops up when the timer goes off!

With these tips, you’re sure to get your child excited about taking care of their mouth. Solidifying these habits with your kids now is key in making sure they’re set for a lifetime of healthy smiles! To learn more about caring for your child’s teeth, visit the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry for more resources. Contact our office to set up a dental appointment for your little one today!

How to Fix an Underbite at Grin Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics

In this blog, we’ll be discussing the common question: how to fix an underbite? An underbite is a misalignment of the jaw that causes the lower teeth to protrude beyond the upper teeth. This is also known as a Class III malocclusion or “reverse bite.” About 5-10% of the population is affected by underbites. Underbites can range from mild cases that are hardly noticeable, to severe cases where the lower jaw extends out far beyond the upper jaw. 

Having an underbite can dramatically affect a person’s self-confidence about their smile. Our office provides underbite correction services to help you achieve a smile you are confident in. Treating an underbite depends on your age and the severity of your underbite. The most common methods to correct an underbite include:

• Upper Jaw Expander: This option is usually recommended if the upper jaw is small in width. The expander works by being fitted across the patient’s palate and gradually widens the jaw so that the lower teeth match better with the lower teeth.
• Reverse-Pull Headgear: This type of headgear is used to pull the upper jaw forward. This option works most effectively for patients under the age of 10.
• Braces or Clear Aligners: This option is suitable for any patient – children or adults. Braces or clear aligners can be an effective treatment for underbites, especially if orthodontic elastics are worn.
• Tooth Extraction: Sometimes, tooth extraction may be necessary to correct an underbite. This option involves carefully selected teeth to help spacing issues in mild to moderate cases.
• Surgery: Orthognathic jaw surgery can be required to align the upper and lower jaws into their ideal positions. The surgery is low-risk and very predictable. In some cases, a referral to a maxillofacial surgeon will be provided by your specialist orthodontist.

The key to correcting an underbite is early diagnosis. However, it can still be treated as an adult. If you are curious about underbite correction, please call one of our offices using the buttons below. 

 

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Fear of the Dentist

It’s common for children—and adults—to feel afraid, stressed, or anxious when it comes to visiting their dentist. While many kids don’t enjoy going to the dentist, they don’t necessarily feel fear or anxiety but some children experience very real fear and anxiety. If parents and dentists don’t work together early on to reduce/eliminate these fears, it can develop into an actual phobia. At Wilderness Station Pediatric Dentistry, our office is designed to help children feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable at each of their visits. We work at every visit to minimize fears and create positive dental experiences for children.

Why Do Children Fear the Dentist?

It’s normal to feel a little anxiety when a visit to the dentist is coming up, especially for children. But, to help your child with their dental anxiety, you should understand the reasons they’re feeling anxious.

• Pain. Whether your child has heard about a painful experience that a parent or sibling had or if they’ve had a painful experience themselves, it’s understandable that they’re afraid. Children also often are afraid of needles associated with some dental work.
• Embarrassment. If a child has obvious oral health issues, such as decay, they can feel self-conscious and embarrassed.
• Lack of control. Fear of losing control is related to the fear of pain. A child knows that the big person with the pointy instruments is in charge. If there’s pain or discomfort, the child may very likely feel that he or she has no control over it.

Helping Your Child Overcome Dental Anxiety

As a parent, you can help your child manage and overcome their fears. We’ve included some of our dental anxiety management tips so you can help your children have a positive experience at every dental visit.

1. Take them to the dentist early on. It’s recommended children visit a dentist when their first tooth appears or by their first birthday.
2. Visit a pediatric dentist. Pediatric dentists are uniquely trained in caring for children’s oral health, including helping them feel safe and comfortable during visits.
3. Let them bring something that comforts them such as a toy or blanket. This helps your child feel more comfortable during their entire visit.
4. Speak positively about dental visits. The way you speak about the dentist can directly impact how your child sees the dentist; so it’s important that you don’t speak poorly about dental visits.
5. Focus on practicing good oral health habits at home. When children are familiar with brushing, flossing, and the importance of oral health, it helps them have fewer oral health issues and more-positive experiences at the dentist.
6. Give positve reniforcment. Before, during, and after dental visits, give your child praise for being able to take the steps required to have a healthy smile.

If you have any questions about pediatric dental anxiety or are ready to schedule your child’s dental visit—contact the Grin Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics team in Colorado.

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Teeth Growing Behind Baby Teeth: What Does It Mean?

If your child has ever run up to you with two rows of teeth—you’re not alone! When permanent teeth come in before baby teeth have fallen out, we call them “Shark Teeth”. Teeth growing behind baby teeth, more commonly known as shark teeth, are common among children and if you’re a concerned parent, rest assured that it’s easily treatable. 

What Causes Shark Teeth?

When a child has two rows of teeth it’s because their baby teeth didn’t fall out before the permanent teeth started to come in. Typically when permanent teeth erupt, even if baby teeth are still present, it adds pressure to the roots of the baby teeth. The added pressure should break the roots that connect the baby teeth to the gumline, ultimately causing the baby teeth to fall out as they should. But, when that doesn’t happen the permanent teeth will start to grow behind the baby teeth, causing a child to have two rows of teeth. 

What Should You Do If Your Child Has Two Rows of Teeth?

If your child has multiple rows of teeth you have a couple of options: 

1. If the tooth is loose, encourage your child to try and wiggle it out. 
2. In the case where the tooth isn’t loose, schedule an appointment with your pediatric dentist. 

A pediatric dentist will remove the baby’s tooth/teeth so your child’s permanent teeth can grow.

Permanent Tooth Eruption

Permanent tooth eruption occurs over a seven-year span, during which a child’s baby teeth fall out and are replaced by adult teeth. Permanent teeth usually start erupting around age 6 and typically appear in the same order that a child’s baby teeth came in. Children will have 20 baby teeth and eventually have 32 permanent teeth. 

Just like teething in babies, permanent tooth eruption is different for each child. Regular dental visits not only help ensure your child’s optimal oral health but also gives you the chance to ask questions along the way if you’re concerned about their baby or permanent teeth. If you have questions about baby or permanent teeth, contact us today! 

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