How
to Help Your Child Overcome Fear of the Dentist 

At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that our young patients are sometimes anxious about getting the dental care they need. Dr. Patel and his kid-friendly team are committed to providing a practice where every child feels safe and comfortable while receiving exceptional care. One of the ways we do that is by offering sedation dentistry options tailored to your child’s unique needs. We strive to ensure even our most anxious young patients can relax in the dentist’s chair. 

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry involves using medication to help create a calm and relaxed state for your child, taking the edge off of dental care. It is ideal for children with a high fear or dental anxiety, a strong gag reflex, or past traumatic dental experiences. It also benefits children requiring lengthy and complex treatments, ensuring safe and comfortable care and reducing the fear of future dental care. 

At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we offer a range of sedation dentistry options depending on your child’s unique needs: 

• Nitrous Oxide Sedation: “Happy air” or “laughing gas” involves breathing a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen through a mask, helping your child relax while remaining awake and responsive. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recognizes this form of minimal sedation as safe for children.
• Oral Conscious Sedation: This mild to moderate form of sedation involves providing oral medication before your child’s dental procedure to create a calm and relaxed state.Your child may fall asleep but will remain responsive and may not remember much, if any, of the treatment, ensuring a stress-free experience. 
• General Anesthesia: Dr. Patel may recommend general anesthesia in some special circumstances to ensure your child’s safety and comfort. We will monitor your child throughout treatment to ensure their safety and well-being. 

How Can You Help Your Child Overcome the Fear of the Dentist? 

Here are some ways you can help your child overcome the fear of the dentist: 

• Start Early: Schedule your little one’s first dental visit when the first tooth comes in and no later than the first birthday. Early care builds familiarity with the dentist, reducing fear and dental anxiety. 
• Stay Positive: Your child will pick up on your emotions or unspoken fears, so it’s important to stay positive. It’s also essential to avoid scary terms like “needle” or “hurt” and, instead, explain how the dentist helps keep teeth healthy and strong. 
• Answer Questions Honestly: Address your child’s questions and concerns openly and honestly and in a way they can understand. Reassure your child while validating their feelings and letting them know you understand. 
• Create a Positive at-Home Dental Routine: Children love to choose their toothbrushes and experiment with toothpaste flavors. Join in the fun and make brushing a happy time, rewarding good oral habits with praise and incentives. 
• Relaxation Techniques: Teach your child simple deep breathing exercises to help them relax. Also, allow your little one to bring along a favorite toy or blanket to the appointment. 

Important Note: If your child has special healthcare needs or their fear of the dentist is severe, let us know ahead of time. We are happy to make accommodations to provide your child with the best possible experience. 

Safe and Gentle Pediatric Dental Care Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Contact Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry to learn more about our sedation dentistry options and the child-centered care we offer our young patients. Dr. Patel and his dedicated team strive to build positive associations with future dental care, ensuring your little one enjoys healthy, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. We invite you to call 480-284-5076 to schedule your child’s appointment or request one online today!

Dental
Care Tips for Children With Special Needs

At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we understand the unique challenges of providing dental care for children with special needs. Dr. Patel and his compassionate team are committed to providing the best possible care in a safe and positive environment. We are also happy to offer accommodations to enhance your child’s dental care experience. Our team has put together a guide with essential dental care tips for children with special smiles. 

Dental Care for Special Healthcare Needs

Children with special healthcare needs often face unique challenges when it comes to caring for their smiles due to physical, medical, sensory, or cognitive difficulties. At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we believe in the importance of preventive dental care, including regular dental exams and cleanings, to reduce the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections, safeguarding your child’s smile. 

If your child has specific accommodations, please let us know before every visit so we can provide the best possible experience. We are also happy to offer desensitization visits to familiarize your child with our office environment before an actual treatment. We’ve designed our kid-friendly office to be physically accessible based on the recommendations of OSHA and the American Dental Association.

Dr. Patel and his team offer a range of sedation dentistry options to help our young patients relax while receiving quality dental care. From nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to oral conscious sedation or even general anesthesia, we strive to ensure your little one is relaxed and stress-free while receiving the best possible care. 

Tips for At-Home Dental Care

Effective dental care doesn’t stop at our practice. Here’s how you can continue good oral hygiene at home:

• Establish a Consistent Schedule: Maintaining a predictable routine helps your child understand what to expect and feel more at ease, making brushing and flossing time less stressful for you and your little one. 
• Experiment with Different Toothbrushes and Toothpaste: Explore different flavors to find the toothpaste right for your child. Also, consider different types of toothbrushes, like electric or 3-sided sensory toothbrushes, to determine the type best suited for your little one. 
• Use Adaptive Tools: If your child finds holding a toothbrush challenging, consider adaptive tools like grips, wraps, or holders. Our team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is happy to recommend adaptive tools to help make brushing easier for your child. 
• Model the Expected Behaviors: Brush and floss alongside your child to encourage the desired behaviors. This may help your child feel more comfortable about the entire process.
• Make Teeth Brushing and Flossing Engaging: Turn brushing and flossing into a fun time your child will look forward to with favorite songs or a reward system. The less pressure your child feels, the more likely you’ll have a successful brushing and flossing session. 

Special Needs Dental Care Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Contact Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry to learn more about our dental care services for children with special smiles. Dr. Patel and his dedicated team are happy to offer tips and guidance to ensure your little one’s smile stays healthy and sound. We are here to support your child’s dental health journey every step of the way. We invite you to call 480-284-5076 to schedule your child’s appointment or request one online today!

What
Are the Benefits of White Crowns for My Child?

At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we offer a range of restorative dentistry services, including dental crowns. These tooth-shaped caps help repair damaged teeth and maintain healthy smiles. Dr. Patel will recommend the ideal solution to address your child’s unique oral health needs.

Why Restore Baby Teeth

Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, keeping them healthy will reflect on your child’s development and the health of the adult teeth yet to erupt. Baby teeth not only enhance your child’s smile, but they also play a vital role in speech, social, emotional, and cognitive development. They also help your child chew and eat a variety of foods, providing the nutrients needed to grow healthy and strong. 

Baby teeth act like placeholders, maintaining the space the adult teeth need to come in the correct position. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, the remaining teeth may move toward the gap, leading to misaligned teeth and a crowded mouth. This usually means a child will need orthodontic treatment down the road. 

What Are Pediatric Dental Crowns?

Dental Crowns are restorations that encase the visible surfaces of damaged baby teeth, protecting them until their adult replacements are ready to come in. At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we offer different crown materials, including stainless steel and white, tooth-colored resin. 

• Stainless Steel Crowns: These silver-colored restorations offer an affordable and durable tooth restoration solution. They come in various shapes and sizes, ready to place without impressions. Stainless steel crowns are ideal for safeguarding back teeth, which endure chewing forces.
• White Resin Crowns: Our dental white crowns are ideal for repairing the front teeth that show when your child smiles. Our aesthetic restorations resemble your child’s tooth enamel, delivering seamless results. 

Why Would Your Child Need a Dental Crown? 

Your child may need a dental crown for the following reasons: 

• Restoring teeth with deep decay or extensive tooth damage
• Supporting a tooth with a large filling and not much structure remaining
• Protecting a tooth after a nerve treatment, also known as a baby root canal
• Strengthening and preserving a weak, worn, cracked, or fractured tooth until its adult replacement comes in

​​What Are the Benefits of White Crowns for Your Child?

Here are some of the benefits white crowns offer for your child: 

• They Enhance Smiles: White crowns blend seamlessly with your child’s natural teeth, enhancing the appearance of their smile.
• They Boost Confidence: A white, beautiful smile can boost your child’s confidence at school and in social settings.
• They Reduce Sensitivity: White crowns help reduce sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. 
• They Improve Oral Health: Tooth-colored crowns can help protect teeth from further decay and damage, promoting your child’s overall oral health.
• They Are Durable: White crowns are strong and durable, protecting your little one’s teeth from further damage.

White Dental Crowns Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Contact Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry to learn more about our white crowns and our other restorative dentistry solutions. Dr. Patel and his dedicated team strive to lay the foundation for strong, healthy smiles that last a lifetime. We invite you to call 480-284-5076 to schedule your child’s appointment or request one online today!

Is
Sedation Dentistry Safe for My Child?

At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that even the bravest children sometimes feel anxious about visiting the dentist. We proudly offer a range of sedation dentistry options to help your child relax in the dentist’s chair. We care about our young patients, which is evident in everything we do. 

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is the practice of administering medications to help create a calm and relaxed state in our young patients, taking the edge off dental visits. At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we offer different levels of sedation depending on your child’s needs. 

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe for Your Child?

Sedation dentistry has an incredibly high safety record when administered by experienced dental professionals. At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we take your child’s health and safety seriously. We follow every recommended safety protocol and monitor your child’s vital signs during treatment. However, as with any other medical procedure, it’s important to let us know if your child is on any medications or has health concerns. Dr. Patel and his child-friendly team are committed to providing your child with safe and exceptional care. 

Who Is a Candidate for Sedation Dentistry? 

Sedation dentistry can be ideal for children needing a little extra help to relax during dental treatment. It relieves discomfort and anxiety, guides cooperative behavior, prevents spontaneous movement during treatment, and helps reduce the fear of future dental care. 

Sedation dentistry is especially beneficial for addressing the following concerns:

• Anxiety or fear about visiting the dentist
• A strong gag reflex
• Heightened tooth sensitivity
• Lengthy or complex treatments
• Past traumatic dental experiences
• An inability to sit still for long periods
• Special healthcare needs

What Are the Forms of Sedation in Pediatric Dentistry?

The following are our sedation dentistry options: 

Nitrous Oxide: Also known as “happy air” or “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is an inhaled, minimal form of conscious sedation. Your child will breathe the gas through a mask, which creates a calm and relaxed feeling. Our young patients stay awake and responsive to directions. The effects of the “happy air” wear off when we remove the mask, allowing your child to get back to school right away. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recognizes nitrous oxide as safe and effective for treating children.

Oral Conscious Sedation: This form of sedation involves taking oral medication about an hour before treatment. Oral sedation can range from mild to moderate, depending on the dose we prescribe. Your child may drift off into a light sleep but will be easily awakened. Most of our young patients do not remember much of their time under sedation. 

General Anesthesia: Some circumstances necessitate the use of general anesthesia to provide your child with safe and effective care. Your child will be asleep, allowing us to complete more procedures without any stress or discomfort. Dr. Patel will talk to you about the benefits of general anesthesia and why we recommend it for your child. 

Sedation Dentistry Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Contact Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry for more information about our sedation dentistry options. Dr. Patel and his dedicated team are always happy to answer any questions and address your concerns. We strive to ensure our young patients have stellar dental experiences and build positive associations with future dental care. We invite you to call us at 480-284-5076 to schedule your child’s appointment or request one online today!

Tips
for Treats Without the Toothache This Halloween

Halloween is just around the corner, bringing spooky costumes, ghoulish decorations, and family fun trick or treating. But amidst the excitement and indulgence in sweet treats, it’s important to be mindful of your child’s oral health. Our team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry has put together some tips to help prevent a Halloween nightmare for your little one’s teeth. We’re all about maintaining bright, healthy smiles this holiday season and throughout the year!

Treats to Skip this Halloween

Here are some treats that can play tricks on your child’s smile: 

• Sticky or Chewy Candies: Sticky, gummy, or chewy candies are high in sugar content, and they cling to the grooves and crevices of your child’s teeth, making it harder for saliva to wash them away. 
• Sour Candies: Sour candies are high in sugar content and are also acidic, increasing the risk of tooth enamel erosion and tooth decay. 
• Hard Candies: Biting down on hard candy can lead to chipped or fractured teeth; in fact, it is one of the leading causes of dental emergencies. 

Better Choices for Your Child’s Smile

Here are some better choices to safeguard your child’s smile:

• Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate is lower in sugar content and melts easily in your child’s mouth, posing less of a threat than sticky or chewy candy varieties.
• Sliced Fruits and Veggies: Fresh fruits and crunchy veggies make an incredibly yummy and smile-healthy treat option for your child. 
• Sugar-Free Treats: Sugar-free candies or gum with xylitol help reduce the risk of dry mouth and tooth decay, enhancing your child’s smile. 

Tips for Halloween Treats Without the Toothache 

Here are some tips to keep your child’s smile from turning ghoulish this Halloween: 

• Time The Treats: Save the treats for during or right after meals because that’s when the saliva production increases, washing away sugars, neutralizing acids, and reducing the risk of damage to the teeth. 
• Avoid Grazing: Munching on Halloween treats all day long prolongs the exposure of your child’s teeth to sugar, increasing the risk of tooth decay. 
• Drink Plenty of Water: Drinking plenty of water increases saliva production and washes away food debris, minimizing damage to your child’s smile. 
• Coordinate with Neighbors: If you live in a family-friendly community, coordinate with your neighbors to offer healthy treats, including savory snacks, fruits, or sugar-free treats, or opt for some non-food Halloween goodies. 
• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: While it’s easy to overlook brushing and flossing during the holidays, it’s more important than ever to maintain good oral hygiene care to minimize the effects of sugar on your child’s smile. 
• Visit Your Child’s Dentist: Aside from good home oral hygiene, it’s important to visit Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry for your child’s twice-yearly exams and cleanings to keep dental disease at bay. 

Preventive Dental Services Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Patel and our dedicated team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry are proponents of prevention to keep our young patients smiling their best this Halloween and all year long. We look forward to working alongside you to lay the foundations for healthy smiles that last a lifetime. We invite you to call 480-284-5076 to schedule your child’s appointment or request one online today!

What
to Expect at Your Child’s First Dental Visit

The first dental visit is a special milestone to celebrate with your child. Our Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry team is dedicated to working alongside you to lay the foundation for healthy, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. We look forward to welcoming you and your little one into our Jet Set Smiles family. 

When Should Your Child First See a Dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics both recommend scheduling your child’s visit when the first tooth appears and no later than the first birthday. Establishing a dental home and instilling good dental habits right from the start will ensure your child’s oral development stays on track and lower the risk of dental disease. At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we are all about ensuring our young patients enjoy healthy smiles into adulthood. 

Preparing for Your Child’s First Dental Visit

It’s important to take the time to prepare for your little one’s first dental visit to ensure a positive experience. Talk to your child, explain what to expect, and make sure you use a happy tone and manner. Explore books together or watch videos about visiting the dentist, even if your child is not verbal yet.

Remember to schedule the first visit when your child is more likely to be cooperative, usually after naptime. Time it to when your child is well fed and rested, and fill out the new patient forms at home before your appointment to focus on your child on the day of the first visit. 

Make sure to remain calm and upbeat because your child will pick up on any anxiety or unspoken fears. Let us know if there’s anything we can do to make your little one’s first visit a stellar experience. 

What Happens During the First Dental Visit?

Dr. Patel will greet you and your child, take your child’s medical and dental history, and ask about current concerns. He will conduct a gentle exam to ensure your little one’s teeth and gums are healthy and the overall oral development is on track. 

Our team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry will review proper brushing and flossing techniques, smile-healthy nutrition, teething, and oral habits, such as thumb sucking or pacifier use. Depending on your child’s age, we may recommend a gentle cleaning and a fluoride treatment. We only take dental x-rays when necessary to uncover any underlying concerns. 

Like adults, most children need to see the dentist twice yearly. Dr. Patel will discuss a schedule that is appropriate for your child. At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we are proponents of prevention and early detection of dental problems to keep our young patients smiling their best. 

Preventive Dental Care Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Patel and our dedicated team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry strive to ensure your child’s first visit and every following one are positive and stress-free. We use kid-appropriate language and do everything possible to ensure your little one is as comfortable as possible. We care about our young patients – and it shows. We invite you to call 480-284-5076 to schedule your child’s appointment or request one online today!

Back
to School Dental Tips

Back-to-school excitement is in the air! While summer is a time to build happy memories, the lack of a familiar school year routine can lead to children neglecting to care for their smiles through regular brushing and flossing. And let’s not forget those sugary summer treats! Our team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is happy to offer tips and guidance to keep dental problems at bay and begin the school year with a confident, healthy smile! 

Dental Tips For A New School Year

Here are some tips to ensure your child maintains optimal dental health in time for the new school year: 

Start the School Year with a Healthy Smile: Before your schedule fills up with school and activities, we recommend scheduling a dental check-up. We will evaluate every aspect of your little one’s oral health and intervene, as needed, to maintain a healthy smile. We will also clean those pearly whites, lowering the risk of cavities and gum disease. Depending on your child’s needs, we may recommend a fluoride treatment to keep cavities at bay. Plus, we will happily complete those back-to-school dental forms.

Build a Strong Oral Hygiene Routine: Establishing a daily oral hygiene routine is key to keeping your little one’s teeth and gums healthy and sound. Encourage brushing at least twice daily for two minutes. It is also important to floss daily to remove plaque and food debris from between the teeth and where the toothbrush can’t reach. 

Brush Like a Pro: Teach your child to hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums and brush gently using a circular motion. Make sure your little one brushes all the surfaces of the teeth, including their front, back, and chewing surfaces. Replace the toothbrush at three-month intervals or sooner if you notice that the bristles are beginning to fray or show signs of wear.

Nourish Your Child’s Smile: Consuming a nutritious, balanced diet is beneficial for your child’s overall health and is also important for those growing teeth! Opt for healthy treats, like fruits and vegetables, and avoid sugary snacks and juices to help reduce the risk of dental decay. 

Encouraging Drinking Water: Water is the best drink for your children’s dental health. It helps wash out food particles and prevents dry mouth, lowering the risk of tooth decay and gum inflammation. Encourage drinking plenty of water, especially after meals and snacks. Limit juices to mealtimes and keep water available to your child for the rest of the day. 

Providing Protection During Sports: If your child is involved in contact or high-impact sports, it is important to wear a mouthguard. We are pleased to offer custom-crafted sports mouthguards to provide the best protection for your child’s smile. 

Preventive Dental Care Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Patel and our dedicated team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry look forward to helping your child start the school year with a bright, healthy smile. We are committed to providing gentle, compassionate care your child will enjoy again and again. We invite you to call 480-284-5076 to schedule your back-to-school appointment today!

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.