Recognizing
Dental Emergencies in Children: A Parent’s Guide

At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we do more than just respond to dental emergencies—we help you recognize them and prepare you to handle them with confidence. Whether your little one is a current patient or you are new to our family, you can count on our dedicated team for cutting-edge, gentle emergency care when it matters most.

What Constitutes a Dental Emergency? 

Understanding what constitutes a dental emergency can help you determine how quickly to act. Here are signs your child requires immediate care: 

• Severe, persistent tooth pain
• Swelling in the mouth or facial area
• A bulge or bump on the gums
• A fractured, dislodged, or loose tooth
• A knocked-out permanent tooth
• A blow to the mouth or face
• Bleeding from the mouth

Should your child experience any of these symptoms, make sure to contact Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry. Our team will offer you guidance until we can provide the needed emergency care. 

Note – If your child has severe swelling or injury, uncontrolled bleeding, or has a life-threatening emergency, do not wait. Dial 911 or go to the nearest ER. 

What Should You Do if Your Child Experiences a Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies can happen unexpectedly, turning a normal day or an enjoyable outing into a stressful ordeal. So save our number, 480-284-5076, on your phone and somewhere easily accessible and call us if your child requires urgent dental care. 

The following are some of the most common dental emergencies and initial care tips until your emergency appointment: 

• Severe Tooth Pain: A painful tooth can result from deep decay, infection, or trauma and will require immediate care. Meanwhile, have your child rinse with lukewarm water, floss to remove any trapped food or debris, and use cold compresses, if needed, to relieve swelling. 
• Knocked-Out Adult Tooth: Hold the tooth by its crown, rinse it gently, and return it to its socket or place it in some milk. Seek prompt care. We do not recommend replanting a baby tooth to prevent damage to the incoming adult tooth, but your child will need to be seen to avoid any potential complications. 
• Dislodged Tooth: Dislodged baby teeth typically heal on their own. If, however, your child dislodges a permanent tooth, place cold compresses on the affected area and contact our office right away. 
• Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Tooth: If you see a yellowish or pinkish hue inside a cracked or broken tooth, it generally means your child requires urgent dental care. Meanwhile, help your child rinse gently with lukewarm water and place cold compresses on the affected area to ease swelling or discomfort. 
• Soft Tissue Injury: Gentle pressure can help stop bleeding from the lips, tongue, gums, or cheeks. If, however, the bleeding is heavy and not manageable, take your child to the nearest ER. 

Remember – a dental emergency may not seem as serious as it can be, so it’s important to seek immediate care for your child to avoid complications. 

Tooth Extractions Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Patel and our kid-friendly team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry are dedicated to ensuring the young smiles in our care stay healthy and sound. If your child experiences a dental emergency, make sure to call 480-284-5076 for prompt guidance and care. We are here to support you and your family every step of the way. 

Why
Would My Child Need a Tooth Extraction? 

At Jet Set Smiles, we emphasize the importance of maintaining healthy baby teeth. Those tiny chompers play a role in speech development, allow your child to bite and chew with ease, and help ensure proper jawbone development. That’s why we spare no effort to restore the health and function of a damaged or decayed tooth with a tooth-colored filling, dental crown, or even a nerve treatment. However, there are times when tooth extraction is our only option to safeguard your child’s smile. You can always count on our team for gentle care that exceeds your expectations.

Why Would Your Child Need a Tooth Extraction?

There are several reasons why your child may need to have a tooth pulled, including the following:

• Deep Decay: A cavity left untreated can progress and cause severe pain and infection. We work tirelessly to save the affected tooth, but if it’s damaged beyond repair, we may need to extract it. 
• An Abscessed Tooth: If a tooth infection is not addressed, it can lead to a painful abscess and potential health complications. We may need to extract the tooth to prevent the infection from spreading and posing a threat to your child’s health. 
• Dental Trauma: An accident can lead to dental trauma that damages a tooth to the point it cannot be saved. Extracting the tooth may be the only option to prevent infection and further complications. 
• Making Room for Permanent Teeth: Baby teeth usually fall out to make room for their adult replacements. However, if a baby tooth refuses to fall out in a timely manner, extracting it will ensure the incoming adult tooth has the space to erupt in the correct position. 
• Orthodontic Treatment: Selective extractions are sometimes needed as a component of an orthodontic treatment plan. That helps make room for the rest of the teeth to shift into alignment.

What Can You Expect?

Our experienced pediatric dentist will numb the tooth and surrounding area with a local anesthetic for your child’s comfort. If your little one is anxious, we are happy to offer nitrous oxide as a safe way to help your child feel relaxed and at ease during treatment. 

Most children need simple extractions, which are relatively quick and straightforward with our modern dentistry techniques. The procedure involves loosening the tooth and gently removing it from its socket. Most children experience little to no discomfort during and after tooth extraction. 

Special Care After a Baby Tooth Extraction

It is important that you follow the post-extraction instructions we provide you to ensure a smooth healing process. For two or three days following treatment, avoid carbonated beverages or drinking through a straw to prevent disrupting the clot forming in the tooth’s socket. We also recommend offering softer foods and avoiding crunchy or spicy foods. If your child experiences discomfort, age-appropriate over-the-counter pain medication can help. If, however, there’s swelling in the area, apply cold compresses and give our office a call. 

What Are Space Maintainers?

Depending on your child’s unique needs and the location of the extracted tooth, we may recommend a space maintainer. The oral appliance helps preserve the alignment of the adjacent teeth and holds the jaw in position while waiting for the adult tooth to come in. Space maintainers have been shown to reduce and sometimes even eliminate the need for orthodontic treatment in the future. 

Tooth Extractions Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Patel and our dedicated team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry prioritize saving damaged baby teeth whenever possible. If, however, extracting a tooth is our only option, we will do everything we can to ensure the procedure is as comfortable as possible for your little one. You can always count on us for exceptional, compassionate care. We invite you to call 480-284-5076 to schedule an appointment or request one online today.

Nutrition
and Your Child’s Oral Health

Did you know that what children eat not only affects their growth and overall health but also impacts their smiles? At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we encourage our young patients to be mindful about what they put in their mouths. We are happy to offer nutritional counseling and guidance to set the stage for strong and healthy smiles. 

How Does Nutrition Impact Your Child’s Oral Health?

Just as proper nutrition supports a child’s growth and development, it can impact their oral health. Essential nutrients help build strong teeth and bones and keep those pearly whites healthy and disease-free. Maintaining a balanced diet lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles. 

What Are Food Choices to Limit?

Here’s a look at some of the food choices that may not be the healthiest for your child’s smile:

Sugary Foods and Beverages: Sugary treats offer an abundant food source for cavity-causing bacteria. As they feast, the bacteria produce acids, which will eat away at your little one’s tooth enamel, leading to decay and cavities. Interestingly, candy bars and cupcakes aren’t the only culprits. Even fruit juices and cough drops can contain large amounts of sugar, which can be detrimental to your child’s smile. 

Acidic Foods and Drinks: Acidic foods and beverages, such as some fruit juices, carbonated drinks, citrus, and pickles, can be harmful to your child’s teeth because they can erode tooth enamel, leading to decay and cavities. Weakened enamel can also lead to oral health problems, including tooth sensitivity and discoloration. 

Starchy or Sticky Foods: Sticky foods or candies tend to linger in every pit or crevice on or between your child’s teeth, leaving them vulnerable to decay. Starchy foods such as potatoes and white bread can also be problematic because they break down into sugars, creating a sticky, sugary feast for harmful oral bacteria. 

Dried Fruit: Snacks like dried fruit and fruit snacks, often mistaken for healthy options due to their fruit content, are actually some of the worst choices for your child’s oral health. Their sticky, chewy texture and excessive sugar and acid content can put your little one’s smile at risk. 

Hard food or Candies: Did you know that hard candy is one of the worst foods for your little one’s oral health? Biting down on hard candies or foods can chip or even crack your child’s teeth, leading to a dental emergency. They can also get stuck in the grooves of the teeth, increasing the risk of decay. 

What Are Healthy Food Choices?

The best diet for your little one’s smile is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, protein, and plenty of water. Here’s a look at some of the examples of smile-healthy treats: 

Fruits and Vegetables: Crunchy, raw fruits and veggies, such as apples, celery, and carrots, act like nature’s toothbrushes, removing plaque, bacteria, and debris from the surfaces of the teeth. Melons and cucumbers, on the other hand, have a high water content, which helps flush away bacteria, promoting your child’s oral health.  

Protein: Lean meats, such as white fish, turkey, and chicken, are good protein sources for your little one, strengthening tooth enamel. Nuts and beans also provide protein, contributing to your child’s oral health. 

Calcium-Rich Foods: Low-fat milk, yogurt, and cheese are excellent sources of calcium, which is important for strong teeth and bones. They are also rich in protein, promoting your child’s dental health. 

Eggs: Eggs are packed with essential nutrients, including protein, calcium, and phosphorus. Calcium helps build strong teeth and bones, while phosphorus can help strengthen your child’s tooth enamel.  

Water: Encourage your little one to drink plenty of water, which helps flush away bacteria, plaque, and food debris, keeping your child’s smile healthy and strong. Water helps keep the mouth hydrated, combats dry mouth, freshens breath, and keeps those little smiles looking beautiful. 

Healthy Habits for Healthy Smiles

Even with the healthiest food choices, it’s important to establish good oral hygiene practices, including daily brushing and flossing. Make sure to visit Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry for your child’s twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings. Our dedicated team will monitor your little one’s smile and ensure it stays in tip-top shape. 

Preventive Dental Care Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Patel and our kid-friendly team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry are dedicated to setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. We are happy to offer tips and guidance to lower the risk of dental disease. You can always count on our team for exceptional, compassionate care. We invite you to call 480-284-5076 to schedule your appointment today.

Root
Canal Treatment for Kids? When Is It Necessary? 

Did you know that the health of your child’s primary teeth can impact their adult teeth? That’s why our team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry spares no effort to save a damaged baby tooth. One of the ways we do that is by offering root canal treatments for kids. The relatively simple procedure will preserve a compromised tooth until it is ready to fall out naturally. 

Why Would a Child Need a Root Canal Treatment? 

The inner core of every tooth has an area called the pulp chamber, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. Deep decay, trauma, or a chipped or fractured tooth can cause tooth pulp inflammation or damage. Tooth pulp damage can only be repaired with the help of a baby root canal, also known as nerve treatment or pulp therapy. 

Saving your child’s baby teeth is always our topmost priority. Even though they will eventually fall out, baby teeth maintain the space the adult teeth need to come in the correct alignment. Losing a baby tooth too early can lead to the remaining teeth shifting toward the gap, resulting in crooked permanent teeth and problems with the bite. That can translate to the need for orthodontic treatment in the future. 

What Are the Signs Your Child Needs a Root Canal Treatment?

Warning signs of tooth pulp damage requiring a root canal treatment include persistent pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, tooth discoloration, gum tenderness or swelling, a pimple-like bump on the gums indicating an abscess, and swelling of the cheek, neck, or jaw.

If your child shows any of these symptoms, contact Jet Set Smiles right away. Dr. Patel may recommend a root canal treatment to relieve your child’s discomfort and save the affected tooth. Our experienced pediatric dentist and kid-friendly team will ensure your child has the best possible care. 

What Happens During a Baby Root Canal Treatment?

The most common baby root canal treatments are known as pulpotomy and pulpectomy, depending on the extent of damage. After treatment, we will place a pediatric dental crown to strengthen the treated tooth and restore its form and function. 

• Pulpotomy: Your child will require a pulpotomy if the tooth’s root is healthy and the damage is limited to the tip. The procedure involves removing the affected tip and filling the space with a protective medicated material to soothe the root and prevent further infection. 
• Pulpectomy: If the entire pulp, including the root, is affected, your child may require a pulpectomy. The procedure involves removing the tooth pulp tissue, cleaning the root canals, and filling the space with an inert material that’s reabsorbed when the baby tooth falls out naturally. 

How We Help Your Child Relax During Treatment

Before treatment, we will numb the area with a local anesthetic for your child’s comfort. We may also recommend dental sedation to help your little one relax in the dentist’s chair. We are committed to ensuring your child is safe and comfortable throughout any treatment. 

Baby Root Canal Treatments Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Patel and our kid-friendly team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry are dedicated to ensuring our young patients maintain a lifetime of healthy smiles. If your child requires a baby root canal treatment, you can always count on our team for exceptional, gentle care. We invite you to call 480-284-5076 to schedule your appointment today.

A
Parent’s Guide to Teething: Everything You Should Know

Nothing is as exciting as celebrating your little one’s milestones—that first smile, first giggle, and first tooth. However, teething is often an uncomfortable and painful experience and a source of frustration for parents. Our Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry team put together a guide to help you understand what to expect and how to ease your little one’s distress. 

When Do Babies Start Teething?

Parents often wonder when to expect that first tiny tooth. It’s important to note that not all children follow the same timeline when it comes to teething. The process typically begins between 4 to 7 months of age, with the two lower front teeth making their debut, soon followed by the two front upper teeth. Most toddlers have a complete set of baby teeth by their third birthday.

The first sign that your little one’s baby teeth are ready to emerge is the appearance of tiny bumps on the gums. Your baby may drool excessively, have red, swollen, and tender gums, and want to chew on hard items. Teething can lead to babies becoming more cranky and fussy, eating less, and having difficulty settling down to sleep. 

While teething may be an uncomfortable experience for some children, it should not cause severe symptoms. Vomiting, diarrhea, or high fever are not teething symptoms. If your child is overly fussy or shows signs of illness, we recommend seeing your child’s pediatrician as soon as possible. 

How Can You Ease Teething Discomfort?

The following are some ways to provide your child with teething relief:

• Massage your little one’s gums with a clean finger or a wet washcloth, placing gentle pressure on the sore areas. 
• Offer a chilled – not frozen – teething ring to help soothe your baby’s gums. 
• Teething babies love to chew unsweetened teething biscuits for comfort – check with your pediatrician first and monitor your little one to ensure no pieces break off and become a choking hazard. 
• Teething gels or over-the-counter pain medication can help soothe those swollen and sore gums, but check with your child’s pediatrician or pediatric dentist first. 
• Dry any drool to prevent skin irritation, which can lead to further discomfort for your child. 

What Teething Remedies Should You Avoid?

Safety is paramount when easing your child’s discomfort. Avoid over-the-counter homeopathic remedies or teething gels with benzocaine or lidocaine, which may be harmful to your little one. Consult with your child’s pediatrician or pediatric dentist before administering any pain relief medication. Moreover, avoid attaching teething rings to your baby’s clothing because of the risk of choking or strangulation. 

Caring for Your Baby’s New Teeth

According to the American Dental Association, children should see a dentist upon the arrival of the first tooth and no later than the first birthday. Establishing a dental home right from the start helps set the stage for long-term healthy, happy smiles. 

Maintaining your child’s dental health requires more than regular visits to the dentist. We recommend a daily routine of gentle teeth cleaning to keep your child’s smile healthy and bright. It’s also important to avoid letting your baby fall asleep with a bottle of milk or juice, which can significantly increase the risk of tooth decay.

Quality Pediatric Dental Care Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Patel and our kid-friendly team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry welcome you and your little one to our practice. Our dedicated team is here to offer guidance and preventive care to lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. We invite you to call us at 480-284-5076 to schedule your appointment today.

Planning
a Dental Visit for My Child with Special Needs

At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we are dedicated to providing children in Phoenix and the surrounding communities with the highest quality dental care. We are especially proud to offer quality special needs dental services and are always ready to make accommodations to ensure your little one feels comfortable and safe during treatment. We are here for you and your child every step of the way!

Common Dental Concerns of Children with Special Needs

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), children with special healthcare needs have physical, developmental, sensory, behavioral, mental, or emotional concerns that require intervention, medical management, or specialized services. 

Children with special healthcare needs are often at an elevated risk of oral health problems, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and trauma. They may also suffer from poor dental health because of difficulty brushing or flossing effectively or because of certain medications or dietary restrictions. That is why it is important to keep up with routine dental exams and cleanings. 

Why Choose a Pediatric Dentistry Practice for Special Needs Dental Care?

Pediatric dentists go through extensive training beyond dental school. One of the focuses of their specialized education is caring for children with special needs. At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we are fully prepared and equipped to provide dental care services for children with special smiles and work tirelessly to ensure their time with us is positive and free of stress. 

At Jet Set Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we work closely with you to ensure your child’s time with us is as comfortable as possible. We are happy to make any needed accommodations and offer sedation dentistry options to help your child feel relaxed during treatment. Whatever your child’s needs are, our dedicated team will do everything we can to provide your child with the best possible experience. 

Planning Your Child’s Dental Visit

Here are some tips for preparing for your child’s dental to help set the stage for a positive dental visit:

• Pay us a visit: It is often helpful to stop by for a brief visit ahead of time to get your child familiar with our warm staff and comfortable space.  
• Let us know about accommodations: Let us know if your child needs any accommodations or if there is anything we need to know to help us provide the best possible experience. 
• Stay positive: Your child will pick up on any fear or negative emotions, so it is important to stay positive and upbeat before and during your appointment. 
• Play pretend: Children love role play, so you may want to take turns playing “dentist” and caring for a favorite doll, superhero, or stuffed animal’s teeth. 
• Read books: There are numerous books about visiting the dentist available online or at your local bookstore – snuggle with your little one with a good book to build excitement about the upcoming appointment.
• Talk to your child: Talk to your child about the upcoming visit and what to expect – make sure you portray the dentist as a warm and happy person who will take good care of those pearly whites. 

Special Needs Care Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Patel and our compassionate team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry welcome you and your family to our practice. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to make your child’s time with us as happy and positive as possible. We invite you to call us at 480-284-5076 to schedule your appointment today.

A
Parent’s Guide to Proper Flossing 

Just like teeth brushing, flossing is integral to your child’s daily oral health routine. It helps lower the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath, promoting your child’s oral health. Our team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is happy to offer tips on proper flossing to lay the groundwork for a lifetime of healthy smiles. 

When Should Your Child Start Flossing?

Flossing may sound pretty grown up, but dental professionals recommend starting as soon as two teeth touch, usually around ages 2-3. Even though babies and toddlers may have multiple teeth, it takes time for the teeth to shift and fit closely together.  

The earlier children start flossing, the more likely they will continue flossing into adulthood. Make sure to help with flossing until those tiny fingers can hold the floss on their own. We recommend supervising flossing until age 10 or 11 when you are confident your child can do a thorough job of cleaning between the teeth. 

How Often Should Your Child Floss? 

The American Dental Association recommends flossing between teeth once a day. That’s important because cleaning those hard-to-reach areas between the teeth prevents plaque from hardening to tartar. Flossing is one of the most effective ways to lower the risk of dental disease. 

Keep in mind that it is perfectly normal to see some bleeding when you start flossing. However, if the bleeding persists, make sure to contact Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry for an evaluation.

What Is the Best Type of Floss for Your Child?

There is no best type of floss. It all boils down to personal preference. In general, dental tape, which is wider than regular floss, is best for teeth with gaps in between. When it comes to teeth that are close together, try waxed floss to make it easier for you and your child. 

If you struggle to reach the smaller areas in your child’s mouth, using a floss pick can help. If your child needs a little encouragement, you can opt for flavored floss varieties, such as minty fresh or bubble gum. Ultimately, the “best” floss is the one that works for both you and your child’s needs.

Flossing Best Practices

Make sure your child flosses at least once a day before or after brushing. Here is a look at how to floss just right:

• Cut an 18 to 20-inch long piece of floss and wrap its ends around your middle fingers. 
• Hold the floss taut between your forefingers and thumbs and gently slide it between the teeth. 
• Use an up-and-down rather than a side-to-side motion, and avoid jerking or snapping the floss into the space between teeth so you don’t hurt the gums.
• Curve the floss to make a “C” shape against the sides of each tooth and guide it below the gum line. 
• As you move from tooth to tooth, use a fresh piece of floss.

Preventive Dental Care Near Me

If you’d like more tips on caring for your child’s smile, visit Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Patel and our kid-friendly team are always here to answer your questions and address your concerns. We are also happy to offer comprehensive preventive services to keep dental disease at bay. We invite you to call our office at 480-284-5076 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!

Should
I Pull Out My Child’s Loose Baby Tooth?

The day has finally come! Your little one has a loose tooth. It is an important rite of passage and a milestone to celebrate. But what if that wiggly tooth refuses to fall out? Should you let nature take its course or lend a helping hand? If you are not quite sure what to do, contact Jet Set Smiles to schedule a consultation. We are happy to provide guidance and ensure your child’s oral health and development stay on track. 

Why Is Your Child’s Tooth Loose? 

A loose baby tooth typically means it’s time for its permanent replacement to erupt. In general, baby teeth make their exit around age six, but every smile is unique. The teeth usually fall out in the order they initially came in. Keep an eye on the wobble – if it is persistent, it’s probably time to prepare for the tooth fairy’s arrival. 

Aside from incoming permanent teeth, a baby tooth may wiggle after a fall or blow to the face. If you suspect a tooth is loose because of trauma, make sure to visit Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry to get your child’s smile evaluated and avoid any complications down the road.

The Wait-and-See Approach

Most loose baby teeth will fall out on their own when they are ready, with minimal fuss. This is probably a good time to teach your child the beauty of patience. While you may be tempted to intervene, letting nature take its course is sometimes the best strategy. 

Calling in the Tooth Fairy Backup

If impatience sets in or your child asks for help, gently touch the tooth. If the tooth barely wiggles or your child winces in pain, the tooth is not ready to fall out, so it’s best to let it be. If the tooth is hanging by a thread, wash your hands, grab a tissue, and with a clean, steady pull, the tooth should come out with ease. 

In most cases, the best scenario is waiting. Encourage your little one to move the tooth around with the tongue until it falls out naturally. That will limit the bleeding, pain, and the chances of infection. 

Keeping Your Children’s Teeth Healthy 

One of the most important things you can do for your child’s smile is to establish good oral hygiene habits right from the start. Not only will your child enjoy healthy baby teeth, but you will be setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. 

Start brushing your little one’s teeth as soon as they come in. Use a tiny amount of toothpaste, no larger than a grain of rice. As your little one becomes a toddler, you can brush with a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. As soon as two teeth touch, it’s time to start flossing to prevent plaque build-up and gum disease. 

Don’t forget to schedule routine dental exams and cleanings. Dr. Patel and our kid-friendly team will ensure your little one’s smile stays healthy and bright. 

Quality Pediatric Dentistry Near Me

If you are not quite sure whether to pull a loose tooth or leave it be, visit Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry. We’re happy to answer your questions, address your concerns, and offer tips on caring for your little one’s smile. We look forward to celebrating every milestone alongside you. We invite you to call our office at 480-284-5076 to schedule your appointment today!

How
to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Healthy During the Holidays 

The holidays are just around the corner, with family fun, delicious meals, and plenty of cheer. The holiday festivities can be hard on your little one’s teeth with the abundance of sugary treats, but it doesn’t have to be. Our team at Jet Set Smile Pediatric Dentistry is happy to offer tips to maintain healthy smiles this holiday season and all year long. 

Make Good Oral Hygiene Practices a Top Priority

The holiday season comes along once a year, but your child’s smile needs good care every day. Encourage your child to brush thoroughly for at least two minutes, at least twice daily, and floss daily. Be sure to use an age-appropriate amount of toothpaste, help your little one until around age six, and continue supervising until you’re confident your child is brushing and flossing properly. 

Avoid brushing your child’s teeth right after a sugary or acidic treat, which can soften the tooth enamel. Instead, rinse with water and brush after 30 minutes to allow the tooth enamel to remineralize and build itself up. However tired your child is after a long day or night of celebrations, avoid the temptation of going straight to bed. Try your best to stick to a healthy oral hygiene routine. 

Allow Your Child to Indulge in Moderation

It’s hard to be a Grinch and keep your child from indulging in holiday treats, but moderation is key. Keep your home stocked with healthy options, like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, and lean protein, and save the splurges for when you’re celebrating with family or friends. If there’s a particular event coming up that you know will be heavy on treats, try to limit junk food before and after to maintain a healthy balance.

Choose Mouth-Healthy Holiday Treats

You can still serve your grandma’s favorite recipes with a few healthy tweaks. For example, use whole flour instead of regular white flour and use sweet potatoes, pumpkin, or fruits rather than sugar to add sweetness to your treats. Give baked apples with cinnamon a try rather than an apple pie – your child’s smile will thank you!

Keep Your Child from Snacking or Grazing

Avoid snacking or grazing on holiday treats all day long. The longer your child’s teeth are exposed to sugar, the worse the damage is to their smile. The best time to indulge in sugary snacks is with or after a meal. That’s because your little one’s salivary glands are most active during mealtimes, producing saliva that washes away food particles and neutralizes acids. Limiting snacking or grazing can minimize damage to your child’s smile. 

Encourage Your Child to Drink Plenty of Water

One of the best things you can do for your child’s teeth is to encourage drinking plenty of water. That helps promote saliva flow, neutralizes plaque acids, and helps wash away bacteria and food debris. An occasional festive drink won’t damage your child’s teeth, but lead by example and encourage your child to drink water all day.  

Visit Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry

Remember to schedule dental checkups for your little one this festive season. Routine dental exams and cleanings lower the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, leaving your child’s smile healthy and bright. They also allow our team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry to uncover dental issues as they develop, preventing them from getting worse and requiring extensive treatments down the road. 

Preventive Dental Care Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Visit Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry for tips on caring for your child’s smile. If you haven’t already had your little one’s smile checked, make sure to schedule a dental exam and cleaning. Dr. Patel and his kid-friendly team look forward to working alongside you to help your child enjoy a healthy smile this holiday season and all year long! We invite you to call our office at 480-284-5076 to schedule your appointment today!

Digital
Dental X-Rays: Safe, Gentle, and Precise

At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, your child’s safety and comfort are always our top priorities. We are pleased to offer low-radiation digital dental x-rays to track your little one’s oral health and development and uncover hidden concerns in between and inside the teeth and below the gum line. You can always count on our kid-friendly team for safe, gentle, and precise care!

How Often Will Your Child Need Digital Dental X-Rays?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends taking x-rays once a year for kids with healthy smiles or every six months for kids at a higher risk of tooth decay. If, however, your child has a painful tooth or has any specific concerns, we may recommend additional diagnostic x-rays. 

What Are the Benefits of Digital Dental X-Rays?

Dental x-rays have been used for decades to diagnose dental problems not visible during routine dental exams. Today’s digital dental x-rays capture high-resolution images using digital sensors rather than traditional x-ray film. The images are produced in seconds without having to bite down on uncomfortable plates, ensuring your child is comfortable and spends less time in the dentist’s chair. 

Digital dental x-rays offer invaluable information about your child’s dental health. The incredibly clear and detailed images reveal early tooth decay and gum disease, ensuring prompt treatment. That prevents a minor problem from progressing and becoming a more significant concern down the road. 

Digital radiography also helps us evaluate injuries, uncover bone problems, plan orthodontic treatments, assess the health of the teeth that have not yet erupted, and determine whether there’s enough space for the incoming permanent teeth. They provide information that helps us create targeted treatment plans, ensuring the best possible outcomes. 

Are Digital Dental X-Rays Safe? 

Digital dental x-rays are much safer than in the past. They produce 80 to 90 percent less radiation than the already low radiation exposure of traditional dental x-ray equipment. In fact, stepping out in the sun or getting a plane ride can expose your child to higher radiation levels per year than digital x-rays! 

What Is the Digital Dental X-Ray Experience?

Dr. Patel and our compassionate team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry are committed to ensuring our young patients are comfortable and free of stress during their time with us. When it comes to taking x-rays, our tiniest patients will sit on a parent or guardian’s lap, while older children are welcome to sit on their own. 

Even though digital dental x-rays are considered safe and come with minimal scatter radiation, we take every recommended safety precaution, including everyone in the room wearing lead aprons for protection. Your little one will bite down on a tiny bite stick and hold still for a few seconds. If needed, you or one of our x-ray technicians can hold the bite stick in place. The entire process takes a few short minutes to complete. 

Digital X-Rays Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

If you’d like to learn more about our modern digital x-ray technology and our commitment to providing safe, gentle, and precise care, contact Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry to schedule a consultation. Dr. Patel and his kid-friendly team strive to provide our young patients with the highest quality care to lay the groundwork for a lifetime of healthy smiles. We invite you to call our office at 480-284-5076 to schedule your appointment today!