Pediatric Dentist in Newton & Brighton, MA

All people, when they eat, secrete acids that help break down food. The foods that we eat, as well, contain natural acids. These can be left around the teeth and mouth after a meal is over. This, along with the natural demineralization that occurs from chewing, can eat away at healthy enamel. Children need strong enamel to protect them from cavities, and fluoride is a proven way to help remineralize teeth and keep them strong over extended periods of time.

Fluoride can be obtained through several avenues. For older children, fluoridated toothpaste is one of the most common ways to directly give teeth a "fluoride treatment." Public drinking water in most cities across America has fluoride added in, a step made decades ago to help children and families receive the fluoride needed to sustain healthy teeth. If your child tends to consume only bottled water, they may not be getting fluoride through this avenue.

Depending on your child's needs, their dentist may suggest that they receive professional fluoride treatment. The FDA and the American Dental Association both approve of this treatment for children as young as six months old. Fluoride treatment may involve the use of a prescription-level mouthwash, toothpaste, or supplement. In younger children, it may be performed as a "varnish" that the dentist applies in the office.

It is important to us, as we know it is to you, that children come to feel comfortable in the dentist's office. Studies suggest that children who are eased into dentistry and receive early and ongoing exams and cleanings tend to have little problem with dental anxiety as they get older. These children also tend to take better care of their teeth into adulthood, which helps them avoid the unnecessary problems that occur when oral care is lacking.

There are several ways that you can help your child feel more prepared for dental visits. You might read age-appropriate books about seeing the dentist or play games with them in which they get to pretend to be the dentist or the patient. It can be very helpful for children to get to play both parts so they can begin to understand what happens during their visits. Finally, we welcome you to contact our office to arrange a time for you and your child to stop by! Coming into the office to meet the care team can introduce your child to dental visits without any pressure to sit in the treatment chair for any length of time.

All of your child's teeth are important, even those that will eventually fall out. If your child develops cavities, they'll be in pain. Their cavities may prevent them from chewing comfortably or wanting to eat the variety of foods that are needed for health and wellness. Tooth decay can also affect speech development if not handled appropriately.

As soon as your child’s first tooth appears, it’s time to schedule a dental visit. The ADA recommends that the first dental visit occur within six months after the first tooth appears but no later than a child’s first birthday.

At this first visit, Dr. Bidabadi will examine your child’s mouth and check growth and development, including:

• Clean your child’s teeth and provide a routine for daily care.
• Perform an inspection for injuries or other concerning oral conditions.
• Evaluate the potential for developing tooth decay.
• Discuss teething, pacifier use, and thumb sucking.

Most babies will develop their first teeth between six and twelve months of age. A baby-safe toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste are recommended for very young children. Brushing with gentleness and care is also vital so as not to damage their gums.

While dental insurance for children is not required, having insurance for them will reduce your out-of-pocket cost when paying for their dental treatments. If you and your child frequently keep up with checkups and cleanings, which should be every six months, dental insurance can help keep your child’s annual dental costs at an affordable price.

One influential way your child can develop good oral hygiene habits is for them to see you practicing good oral hygiene habits as well. It’s best to begin brushing your teeth with your child and brushing their teeth for them as early on in their childhood as possible. Making this act a fun, collaborative part of their morning and nighttime routine can help them look forward to the next time they do it. Doing so will help them recognize a routine, allowing them to develop the habit of taking care of their oral health on their own as they age.

As soon as your child’s first tooth appears, it’s time to schedule a dental visit. The ADA recommends that the first dental visit take place within six months after the first tooth appears, but no later than a child’s first birthday.

At this first visit Dr. Bidabadi will examine your child’s mouth and to check growth and development, including:

• Clean your child’s teeth and provide a routine for daily care.
• Performing an inspection for injuries or other concerning oral conditions.
• Evaluate the potential for developing tooth decay.
• Discuss teething, pacifier use and thumb sucking.

At Soft Touch Dentistry, we understand that children's dental needs are unique. We offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to young smiles. Some of the most common dental procedures for children include:

• Regular Check-ups and Cleanings: Essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, these visits help prevent cavities and other dental problems.
• Dental Sealants: A quick, painless procedure where a protective coating is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, guarding against decay.
• Fluoride Treatments: These treatments strengthen enamel and prevent cavities, making them a cornerstone of pediatric dental care.
• Tooth-Colored Fillings: When cavities occur, our tooth-colored fillings restore the tooth while maintaining a natural look.
• Orthodontic Assessments: Early evaluations help determine if braces or other interventions will be needed to align and balance your child's smile.

Invisalign is not recommended for kids. It can be started on teenagers once their adult teeth have fully grown in. At that point, Dr. Bidabadi can examine the alignment of the adult teeth to determine if treatment is warranted.

Safe for children of all ages, laser dentistry offers a less invasive alternative to conventional methods of dentistry. It's used for a variety of procedures, including cavity treatment and gum reshaping. Dr. Bidabadi often recommends laser treatments because they cause less discomfort, making appointments easier for young patients.

First, remain calm and reassure your child. If possible, find the tooth and hold it by the crown, not the root. Rinse it gently without scrubbing. If it's an adult tooth, try to reinsert it into the socket. If that's not possible, keep it moist in milk or your child’s saliva and contact us immediately or visit an emergency room. If it's a baby tooth, do not try to reinsert it because it could damage the permanent tooth underneath. Even though it is a baby tooth, it is still considered an emergency if it has come out prematurely. Therefore, it is important to consult with us as soon as possible to assess the appropriate steps for your child’s dental health.

Families trust Dr. Bidabadi with their children's dental care for numerous reasons:

• Compassionate, Child-Friendly Care: Dr. Bidabadi's practice is built on a foundation of gentle and compassionate care, ensuring a positive experience for both children and parents.
• Expertise in Pediatric Dentistry: With years of specialized experience, Dr. Bidabadi knows how to address the unique challenges and needs of young patients.
• State-of-the-Art Technology: From laser dentistry to Invisalign, our office is equipped with the latest in dental technology to provide high-quality care.
• A Welcoming Environment: Our office is designed to make children feel at ease, with a friendly atmosphere and a team that knows how to make dental visits fun.

When your child has a dentist they feel comfortable visiting and listening to, they are much more likely to maintain a lifetime of good dental habits!

The key is to start early and create positive associations. Here are some tips that can help:

• Begin dental visits when your child's first tooth appears or by their first birthday.
• Explain the process in a simple, non-threatening way.
• Be sure to avoid words like "pain" or "hurt."
• Role-play a pretend dentist visit at home.
• Choose a dentist like Dr. Bidabadi, who is experienced in managing children's fears.
• Be a good role model. Stay calm and positive during your own dental visits.

Dental emergencies can be alarming, but staying calm is essential.

If your child knocks out a tooth, rinse it gently with water (do not scrub). Then, try to place it back in the socket or store it in milk and contact Dr. Bidabadi immediately.

For a chipped or broken tooth, rinse their mouth with warm water. Then, apply a cold compress to decrease swelling.

In cases of severe pain or bleeding, head to the emergency room. Always have Dr. Bidabadi's contact information handy for quick access during emergencies.

Dental X-rays are generally safe for children. 

Modern technology has significantly reduced radiation exposure, making it minimal and well within safe limits. We also use lead aprons and thyroid collars to protect the rest of the child's body from radiation.

X-rays are essential for detecting issues that are not visible during a routine exam, such as cavities between teeth, impacted teeth, or problems with the jawbone. Dr. Bidabadi will only recommend X-rays when necessary to ensure your child's safety.

Sugary and acidic foods and drinks (candy, soda, fruit juices, etc.) can lead to cavities by feeding bacteria in the mouth. The bacteria produce acids that wear down tooth enamel.

Encourage your child to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products. These foods supply essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus, which strengthen teeth.

Limit sugary snacks and promote water over sugary drinks as well. This can greatly reduce the risk of tooth decay.

Making tooth brushing fun can encourage your child to develop good oral hygiene habits. Try these practices:

• Use a toothbrush with their favorite character or a colorful, interactive design.
• Play a two-minute song or use a timer to make brushing feel like a game. 
• Let your child choose their toothpaste flavor.
• Use positive reinforcement, like a reward system, to further motivate them.
• Brush together as a family to turn the activity into a fun routine and help your child view it as an enjoyable part of their day.

Monitoring your child's brushing is important to ensure they do it correctly.

Teach them to brush for two minutes and cover all surfaces of the teeth. Supervise their brushing until they are around 7-8 years old to make sure they are reaching all areas, including the back teeth. Look for signs of plaque, such as a white or yellowish film on the teeth, as well.

You may also want to consider using plaque-disclosing tablets that color any missed spots. This helps your child see where they need to improve. Regular dental check-ups with Dr. Bidabadi will also confirm their brushing effectiveness.