Dentistry is the known evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the soft and hard tissues of the jaw (mandible), the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and the adjacent.
An Interview with Dr. Carl McMillan on Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. Carl McMillan is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Pediatric Dentistry.
Q. When should parents take their children to have their first checkup?
A. It is recommended that children be seen by a dentist soon after their first birthday, however, I recommend that the parents just interview their dentist about what they should be doing to care for their infant’s oral health. I recommend that children be seen around their 3rd birthday for a full check up and cleaning. If parents are looking at their child’s teeth regularly and see something suspicious (brown spots, dark areas, food catching between teeth,etc) before this time, then see a dentist sooner.
Q. What should be used to clean a baby's teeth?
A. An infants teeth and gums should be cleaned using a clean wash cloth or special tooth cloth daily. Even before teeth arrive in the mouth, the gums should be washed/wiped with this cloth regularly to decrease bacteria and to clean sugars from milk from the tissues. As soon as the child can hold a spoon, they should also be taught by mimicry to hold and use a toothbrush. Just because the child can’t actually brush appropriately, doesn’t mean they shouldn't get used to a toothbrush in their mouth. Mom or dad should follow up and brush after the child has a chance. Fluoride toothpaste should never be used at least until the child can demonstrate that they do not swallow. Holistically speaking, I don’t believe in Fluoride and don’t use it.
Q. What is a Pediatric Dentist?
A. A pediatric dentist is a dentist that has trained beyond dental school to work exclusively on minors. They tend to be soft and easy going and have offices that make dentistry fun for children. Pediatric dentists push fluoride, mercury fillings and stainless steel crowns, all of which can be toxic
Q. What should a parent do if their child has a toothache?
A. Take the child to a dentist that is willing to see the child and have the tooth taken care of. Most toothache’s with children are because of tooth decay and when primary or baby teeth are decayed to the point of pain they are not savable. The tooth has to be extracted and sometimes space maintainer’s must be placed.
Q. Are thumb sucking and pacifier habits harmful for a child's teeth?
A. Yes. Pacifiers that are of the orthodontic style are much better than the "nipple" style. Pacifiers should be given up by 1-2 years of age. Thumb sucking and inappropriate pacifier use leads not only to harm of the teeth, but to the jaw structure itself. It can move the jaw and thus malposition the teeth.
Q. How can a mom prevent decay caused by nursing?
A. By cleaning the entire mouth regularly (at least 2X per day) including the palate, cheeks, gums and teeth. Limit midnight feedings without cleaning the teeth afterwards at least by first thing in the morning.
Q. How often does a child need to see the pediatric dentist?
A. Children in general need to see a dentist every 6 months for check up and cleaning to evaluate their home care habits, as well as check for any decay starting. I don’t believe that most children need to see a pediatric dentist.
