Juvenile Grinding

One of the most common complaints we get from parents is their child grinds their teeth. This habit, known as bruxism, is actually very common in children. Yes, it can be very aggrevating and the noise grinding prooduces can make one want to clinch their own teeth. However, the best thing to do is let it go and let your child sleep. At each dental visit we evaluate the structure of the teeth to ensure grinding is not affecting the child's bite. Whenever we do notice "wear" on the teeth we always note it in the chart to re-evaluate the grinding at the patient's next visit. Some think stress can induce a child grinding their teeth.  Although it has not been proven or clear as to why grinding occurs in children we do our best to remind parents that it is okay and to not worry. Here is an article about buxism and some routines to help reduce grinding. If you or your child has any questions or concerns about grinding, you can always call our office, 225-769-1969.

Buxism (Teeth Grinding)

New Molecule to Keep Away Cavities!

We recently came across an article that definitely caught our eye. The article discusses a new molecule researchers have created cleverly named "Keep 32" for the 32 adult teeth people have. This molecule, if used properly, is supposed to kill the bacteria in your mouth that causes cavities. How great would it be to never have a cavity!! The molecule is still undergoing testing, but until here are some tips to help keep your teeth healthy and sparkling:

• Brush your teeth twice daily (in the morning and at night) with a small amount of fluoridated toothpaste and spit but don't rinse out, do not have anything else to eat or drink after brushing at night.
• Floss daily to remove any impacted food/sugars.
• Try to make water your main source of hydration and cut back on carbonated beverages (regular and diet), juices, and milk. These beverages contain high amounts of sugars and continuous exposure can cause cavities.
• Stay away from sticky candy (starburst, laffy taffy, skittles, etc.) and if you are looking for a sweet treat stick to chocolate because it melts.
• Visit your dentist every 6 months for regular cleanings and exams to catch cavities before they are too large.

Until then here is a link to the article about "Keep 32". Everyone enjoy their week! Happy brushing.
Article on "Keep 32"

Welcome to our blog! Here at Pediatric Dental Specialist, we are excited to venture into a new idea created to assist our patients, family, and friends in staying up-to-date with our office as well as information/research dedicated to pediatric dentistry. Our goal with this blog is to provide our readers with topics that are commonly discussed in our office and the media so they feel confident with us, as their dentist, and their dental routines at home. Technology has the medical field always changing and evolving and we want to stay as accurate as possible. We have our office website (http://www.pdsbr.com/) and a facebook (www.facebook.com/pediatricdentalspecialist225) to allow you access to see pictures of our office, activities our office participates in, contest we have throughout the year, and frequently asked questions. Once again, welcome to our blog and we hope you find the information we share helpful!