Beware of those pesky cavities, from Pearland Pediatric Dentistry

Our team at Pearland Pediatric Dentistry read an interesting article this morning pertaining to cavities and how bacteria spreads, and thought we'd share the news with you, our valued patients.

According to the MSNBC article, Streptococcus mutans, or MS, is a bacterium that can pass from person to person through the transfer of saliva, and is the main culprit of parent-to-child cavity transmissions. Bacteria has been known to spread through blowing on babies' foods, sharing household utensils and even kissing your little one. In fact, a 2008 pediatric dentistry study showed “strong evidence demonstrated that mothers are a primary source of MS colonization of their children; a few investigations showed other potential sources … notably fathers.”

Our staff knows tooth decay is caused by a combination of factors, including the transfer of infectious saliva, oral hygiene, genetics and feeding practices, such as letting your baby constantly suck on sippy cups full of juice or milk or other sugar-laden liquids.

Drs. Clark and Reddy would like for you to read the article and learn about the transmission of bacteria and how it might impact your child. If you have any questions about bacteria or your treatment at Pearland Pediatric Dentistry, please feel free to give us a call at 713.436.4080!

Ask Drs. Clark and Reddy: When is thumb-sucking a Cause for worry?

Lots of you have asked Dr. Pamela Clark about whether it’s healthy for children to suck thumbs and fingers. If you’ve got a thumb-sucker in the house, you are not alone. Research tells us that between 75% and 95% of infants suck their thumbs.

Is this something to worry about? In most cases, no. Sucking is a natural reflex for an infant, and can provide security and contentment as well as relaxation for your little one. It’s a habit that most children grow out of between the ages of 2 and 4.

However, if your child keeps sucking after he’s gotten his permanent teeth, it’s time to take a closer look. If your child sucks his thumb aggressively, putting pressure on the inside of his mouth or his teeth, it could cause problems with tooth alignment and proper mouth growth. If you’re worried, give us a call and we will help assess the situation, and provide tips for how to help your child break the habit.

The importance of dairy, from Drs. Clark and Reddy

Is dairy a major part of your child's diet? A 2008 study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can lower chances of contracting periodontal disease (known also as gum disease).

Drs. Clark and Reddy will tell you gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of osteoporosis, respiratory disease, stroke and heart disease.

Results of the study showed that people who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease. Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time your child reaches for a quick snack, remind him or her to choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip your child is preserving their teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about keeping your teeth healthy, give us a call at 713.436.4080.

Your child and cavities, from Pearland Pediatric Dentistry

We read a fascinating article on cavities recently in USAToday. In the article, the president of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry said that one-third of children in the U.S. have cavities—that's right, multiple—by age three to five. That's why—under a new Massachusetts law—kids in day care there are now required to brush their teeth or have them brushed by a staffer. The article also points out that cavities are much more prevalent among young children today than they were a decade ago.

Cavities, of course, can lead to severe tooth pain, eating problems, tooth loss and bad smiles, and that's why the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry says it's vital for children to visit a dentist by their first birthday. Has your child visited Pearland Pediatric Dentistry yet? If your little one is one nearing his or her first birthday, it's time to schedule an appointment with Drs. Clark or Reddy.

Happy Thursday!

Congratulations to the winner of our monthly patient drawing, Ms. Kaila W.!

Congratulations, Kaila! From the entire team at Pearland Pediatric Dentistry!!

Office heroes at Pearland Pediatric Dentistry

Last week, we were asked, "Who are your office heroes?" Well, here's our response:

Our team at Pearland Pediatric Dentistry is the greatest around! We work to make every patient and parent feel that they are a part of our family. Our main goal is for each child to feel special and to have a positive experience in our office so they grow up to be an adult who cares about their dental health. Each of our team members enjoys working with the patients and they care about each one as an individual. They all take pride in their positions and in their responsibilities. We are so happy to have everyone on our team!

Ask Drs. Clark and Reddy: When should my child come in for a check-up?

At Pearland Pediatric Dentistry, we think a child's first visit to the dentist should be enjoyable and positive. The more you and your child know about the first visit, the better you will feel. Children are not born with a fear of the dentist, but they can fear the unknown. At Pearland Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Pamela Clark and Dr. Suha Reddy and our dedicated team make a practice of using pleasant, non-frightening, simple words to describe your child's first dental visit and treatment. We want you and your child to feel at ease from the moment you walk through the door.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, or AAPD, children should visit the dentist by their first birthday. It is important that your child's newly-erupted teeth (erupting at 6-12 months of age) receive proper dental care and benefit from proper oral hygiene habits right from the beginning. Your child's first tooth erupts between ages 6-12 months and the remainder of their 20 primary or "baby" teeth typically erupt by age three.

If you have any questions about pediatric dentistry, or about your treatment at Pearland Pediatric Dentistry, please give us a call!