Chicago Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Blog

Though fluoridation of the water supply is considered one of the greatest advances for public health of the last century, many people view this naturally occurring mineral with suspicion. While fluoridated water is proven to save communities vast amounts of money by preventing cavities, some have concerns about the effects of exposing younger children to too much fluoride. Here’s why fluoridated water is perfectly safe for children of any age.

Many children deal with teeth sensitivity that can get in the way of eating or proper oral hygiene. To make matters worse, the discomfort it can cause during brushing or when consuming hot or cold foods or drinks can lead children to exhibit irritability, mood swings, or dietary restrictions. Here’s some information about what causes dental sensitivity in children as well as a few tips for preventing the problem and treating it when it happens.

When you go shopping for gifts for your kids, you probably want to buy something that is practical. At the same time, you want to choose something that your kids will enjoy. In many cases, items that support oral health fit both of those criteria. They are fun and useful! What are some specific items that you can buy for your young ones? Here are a few helpful ideas:

The Tooth Fairy has served children for generations by leaving them a small gift for tucking their lost baby teeth under their pillows. This beloved tradition is a great way to keep children excited about growing up and help them understand the importance of proper oral care. If your child has recently lost a baby tooth, here are a few ways to help them welcome this benevolent pixie.

Just because you have braces doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to enjoy all of your favorite Halloween sweets. Although the metal brackets and wires helping to straighten your smile can break or become dislodged by eating certain treats, like taffy and hard candies, undergoing treatment doesn’t automatically mean you won’t be able to enjoy them at all. Read on to learn what Halloween candy you can still eat with your braces and how you can protect them.

Few things are more precious than witnessing your child’s first tooth emerging from their gums. As their gummy smile transforms into baby teeth, it’s never too soon to introduce them to a dentist. Despite the temporary nature of baby teeth, they play a crucial role in your child’s oral health and development. Regular checkups enable early detection, ensuring the well-being of your child’s mouth. Here’s why it’s important for them to visit the dentist every six months, even if they have just a few teeth.

Even if you enjoy going to the dentist, as soon as they whip out a term like “interproximal reduction” you might do a double take. Despite its confusing name, the procedure is actually simple and pain-free. Depending on your situation, it could also be necessary to preserve the future of your oral health.

Continue reading to learn more about interproximal reduction and how it can help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile.

Does your child have a crooked or gapped smile? With numerous teeth-straightening alternatives available, selecting the right method for you or your child can be challenging. Although clear braces are gaining popularity, traditional metal braces still hold numerous advantages. If you are contemplating teeth straightening treatment, read on to explore four reasons why orthodontists may recommend traditional braces as the optimal choice.

Maintaining a healthy smile from a young age is crucial for children, and one of the secrets to doing this lies in dental sealants. These solutions are notably effective in preventing the development of cavities, and over the years, advancements in dental technology have led to them being made from awesome materials such as SDF, or silver diamine fluoride. In fact, in a comprehensive study conducted by New York University, children were given SDF sealants to measure their effectiveness alongside standard cavity care and prevention; the results showed that they were effective at both preventing and curbing future decay! Here’s a closer look at these sealants and some of their awesome benefits when used in pediatric dentistry.  

Whether you’re an adult or teen, addressing orthodontic problems like crowding and bite misalignment are not only important for your health, but also for your confidence. A straightened smile can go a long way, and although braces and aligners can be a lengthy commitment, they’re well worthwhile. Be prepared for your first appointment by getting the answers you’ll be glad you had as you undergo treatment. Read on for four important questions to ask your orthodontist.