Tooth Decay Prevention
Tooth decay is a progressive disease resulting in the interaction of bacteria that naturally occur on the teeth and sugars in the everyday diet. Sugar causes a reaction in the bacteria, causing it to produce acids that break down the mineral in teeth, forming a cavity. Dentists remove the decay and fill the tooth using a variety of fillings, restoring the tooth to a healthy state. Nerve damage can result from severe decay, and may require a crown (a crown is like a large filling that can cap a tooth, making it stronger or covering it). Avoiding unnecessary decay simply requires strict adherence to a dental hygiene regimen: brushing and flossing twice a day, regular dental checkups, diet control and fluoride treatment. Good hygiene avoids unhealthy teeth and costly treatment.
Sealants
The grooves and depressions that form the chewing surfaces of the back teeth are extremely difficult (if not impossible) to clean of bacteria and food. As the bacteria reacts with the food, acids form and break down the tooth enamel, causing cavities. Recent studies indicate that 88 percent of total cavities in American school children are caused this way.
Tooth sealants protect these susceptible areas by sealing the grooves and depressions, preventing bacteria and food particles from residing in these areas. Sealant material is a resin typically applied to the back teeth, molars and premolars, and areas prone to cavities. It lasts for several years, but needs to be checked during regular appointments.
Thumb Sucking
Sucking is a natural reflex that relaxes and comforts babies and toddlers. Typically children stop between the ages of two and four years. Thumb and pacifier sucking that persists beyond the eruption of primary teeth can cause improper growth of the mouth and misalignment of the teeth. If you notice prolonged and/or vigorous thumb sucking or pacifier use in your child, talk to Dr Rania or her staff about it at your next visit.
Here are some ways help your child outgrow thumb sucking or pacifier use:
Don't scold a child when they exhibit thumb sucking behavior; instead, praise them when they don't thumb suck. Focus on eliminating the cause of anxiety - thumb sucking is a comfort device that helps children cope with stress or discomfort. Praise them when they refrain from the habit during difficult periods.
Place a bandage on the thumb or a sock on their hand at night.
In cases where all other means have been exhausted and significant damage to oral structures is noted, a professional dental appliance may be considered.
