5 Common Dental Emergencies in Kids

As a parent, you always want to keep your child safe and healthy. However, accidents can happen. And when they do, knowing how to handle them is important. Dental emergencies are one such example. They can initially seem scary for both you and your child. See what five common dental emergencies occur in children, so you can know how to handle them as you book a visit to your local pediatric dentist in Calgary

5 Dental Emergencies Requiring a Pediatric Dentist in Calgary

#1: Broken or Knocked-Out Tooth

In pediatric dentistry in Calgary, one of the most common dental emergencies is a broken or knocked-out tooth. Naturally, this is the case since children can easily get into an accident or play a sport that could cause it. If your child has a broken tooth, try to find the broken piece and bring it to your pediatric dentist in Calgary. On the other hand, if the tooth has been knocked out, rinse it gently with water and try to reinsert it into the socket. If you can’t reinsert the tooth, put it in a container of milk or saliva and bring it to the dentist.

#2: Toothache

No child likes going through a toothache. Regarding toothaches, anyone in pediatric dentistry in Calgary knows various factors that can cause them. These include the following:

  • Cavities
  • Infection
  • Injury

If your child is experiencing a toothache, rinse their mouth with warm salt water and use a cold compress to reduce swelling. You can also give them over-the-counter pain medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Make sure to schedule an appointment with the dentist as soon as possible to identify and treat the underlying cause of the toothache.

#3: Cut or Bitten Lip or Tongue

Children are prone to accidents, and a cut or bitten lip or tongue is common. If your child has a cut or bitten lip or tongue, clean the area gently with a damp cloth and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If the bleeding doesn’t stop after a few minutes or the cut is deep, seek medical attention immediately.

#4: Object Stuck in Teeth

Children often put small objects in their mouths. Sometimes those objects can get stuck between their teeth. If your child has an object stuck in their teeth, try to remove it with dental floss or a toothbrush. Don’t use sharp or pointed objects to try to remove them, as this can cause injury. If you can’t remove it or your child is experiencing pain or discomfort, seek dental attention.

#5: Broken Braces or Wires

If your child wears braces, broken brackets or wires can cause discomfort and pain. If a wire is sticking out and causing irritation, try to push it back into place using the eraser end of a pencil. You can also cover the wire with orthodontic wax to reduce discomfort. If a bracket is broken, leave it in place and cover it with wax until you can see the orthodontist.

Preventing Dental Emergencies From a Pediatric Dentist in Calgary

While some dental emergencies are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of dental injuries. Encourage your child to wear a mouthguard when playing sports or participating in other physical activities. Teach your child to avoid chewing on hard objects, such as pencils or ice, which can damage their teeth. Finally, ensure your child practices good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Visiting a dentist shouldn’t be a scary experience for children, and Happy Trails Children’s Dentistry is here to make sure that children feel safe and excited about their regular checkups. Happy Trails is a professional pediatric dentistry proudly serving south Calgary, and we have a goal of creating an inviting and comfortable space for children to receive the best care available. With our fantastic dentist, Dr. Sam, our young patients in Calgary will always have a positive dental experience!     

How to Soothe a Teething Baby 101

If you’re a new parent, one of the most challenging experiences you might face is dealing with a teething baby. Teething can cause a lot of discomfort and pain for your little one, and it can be tough to know how to soothe them. Fortunately, you can use several tips and tricks to help your baby feel more comfortable during the teething process. Learn some of the most effective ways to soothe a teething baby from your local pediatric dentist in Calgary.

Teething Tips From Your Local Pediatric Dentist in Calgary

Tip #1: Use a Cold Compress

A cold compress is one of the simplest and most effective ways to soothe a teething baby. You can use a cold washcloth, a chilled spoon, or a teething toy placed in the refrigerator to help numb the gums and ease pain. The coolness can help reduce inflammation and provide a welcome distraction for your little one.

Tip #2: Offer Teething Toys

Teething toys are specially designed to provide relief for teething babies. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and textures, and they’re made from materials that are safe for your baby to chew on. The pressure and motion of biting down on a teething toy can help alleviate the discomfort of teething and stimulate the production of saliva, which can help neutralize bacteria in the mouth.

Tip #3: Massage the Gums

Massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger can also help soothe teething pain. You can use a soft-bristled baby toothbrush or a clean cloth to massage the gums, but be sure to avoid applying too much pressure, as this can cause further discomfort.

Tip #4: Try Distractions

Sometimes, a little distraction is all your baby needs to forget about teething pain. Playing games, singing songs, and reading books can all provide a welcome distraction from discomfort. You can also take your baby outside for a walk or a change of scenery.

Tip #5: Breastfeed or Bottle Feed

Breastfeeding or bottle feeding can provide comfort and relief for teething babies. The sucking motion can help distract your little one from the pain of teething, and it can also help promote relaxation and sleep.

Tip #6: Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene

Pediatric dentistry in Calgary is all about maintaining proper oral hygiene. Naturally, upholding it can also help soothe a teething baby. You can use a clean, damp cloth to wipe your baby’s gums and mouth after feedings to remove bacteria and prevent infection. As your baby’s teeth come in, you can begin brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

Tip #7: Offer Frozen Foods

If your baby has already started eating solid foods, you can offer frozen fruits or vegetables to help soothe teething pain. Chilled bananas, mangoes, and cucumbers are all good options, as are frozen peas and corn. Just be sure to supervise your baby closely to prevent choking.

Tip #8: Use Natural Remedies

Some natural remedies can also help soothe teething pain. Chamomile tea, for example, can be used to make a soothing and natural teething remedy. Simply steep a bag of chamomile tea in hot water, let it cool and then apply it to your baby’s gums with a clean cloth.

Tip #9: Turn to Your Local Pediatric Dentist in Calgary

Pediatric dentistry in Calgary is meant can provide the guidance you need when your baby is teething. A pediatric dentist in Calgary can help monitor your baby’s oral health by providing routine dental checkups and cleanings to ensure your baby’s teeth and gums are healthy and developing properly. Also, they provide treatments for any dental issues that may arise during the teething process, such as tooth decay or gum inflammation. Additionally, a pediatric dentist can answer any questions or concerns you may have about your baby’s teething process and provide support for you and your family during this challenging time.

Visiting a dentist shouldn’t be a scary experience for children, and Happy Trails Children’s Dentistry is here to make sure that children feel safe and excited about their regular checkups. Happy Trails is a professional pediatric dentistry proudly serving south Calgary, and we have a goal of creating an inviting and comfortable space for children to receive the best care available. With our fantastic dentist, Dr. Sam, our young patients in Calgary will always have a positive dental experience!

Common Causes for Sensitive Teeth in Kids

We all know how important it is to care for our children’s teeth. Not only do healthy teeth make them look good, but they also play a critical role in their overall well-being. That’s why it’s important to be aware of any signs of dental problems in our kids. One of the issues that parents should be mindful of is sensitive teeth. If your child is experiencing sensitivity in their teeth, it’s important to understand the common causes and how to treat them best from a pediatric dentist in Calgary.

Your Local Calgary Pediatric Dentist on Teeth Sensitivity in Kids

Symptoms of Sensitive Teeth in Children

The most common symptom of sensitive teeth in children is a sharp pain or discomfort when they eat or drink something hot or cold. This pain ranges from mild to severe depending on the cause of sensitivity. If your child is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to have them seen by a pediatric dentist in Calgary.

Common Causes for Sensitive Teeth in Children

There are several different causes for sensitive teeth in children. Many specializing in pediatric dentistry in Calgary can tell you that these are the most common causes, which include the following:

  • Tooth decay: Tooth decay is one of the most common causes of tooth sensitivity in children. Tooth decay can cause the tooth’s enamel to become weak, leading to pain when exposed to hot or cold temperatures.
  • Gum disease: Gum disease can also cause sensitivity in children’s teeth. If the gums become inflamed, they can pull away from the teeth, exposing the roots and causing sensitivity.
  • Brushing too hard: Brushing too hard can wear away the enamel of the teeth, leading to sensitivity. It’s important to remind your children to brush gently and correctly.
  • Teeth grinding: Teeth grinding can cause the enamel of the teeth to wear away, leading to sensitivity. If your child grinds their teeth, it’s important to have them seen by a pediatric dentist as soon as possible.
  • Acidic foods & drinks: Eating and drinking acidic foods and beverages can wear away the enamel of the teeth and lead to sensitivity. Limiting these foods and drinks and encouraging your children to drink plenty of water instead is important.

What Preventive Measures a Calgary Pediatric Dentist Recommends

There are some preventive measures that you can take to help ensure that your child’s teeth stay healthy and strong. The first and most important measure is to encourage your child to brush their teeth twice daily, for two minutes. It’s also important to enable them to floss daily and use fluoride toothpaste by ensuring they’re doing so properly. Limiting snacks and sugary drinks can also help keep their teeth healthy. Finally, scheduling regular check-ups with a pediatric dentist is key to catching any dental issues early on.

If your child is experiencing sensitivity in their teeth, it’s important to have them seen by a specialist in pediatric dentistry in Calgary as soon as possible. The dentist can diagnose the cause of the sensitivity and recommend the best treatment. Treating sensitive teeth can include filling cavities, applying fluoride, or even crowns or veneers. From a pediatric dentist’s expertise and guidance, they can help recommend the best treatment for your child’s situation.

Visiting a dentist shouldn’t be a scary experience for children, and Happy Trails Children’s Dentistry is here to make sure that children feel safe and excited about their regular checkups. Happy Trails is a professional pediatric dentistry proudly serving south Calgary, and we have a goal of creating an inviting and comfortable space for children to receive the best care available. With our fantastic dentist, Dr. Sam, our young patients in Calgary will always have a positive dental experience!    

Five Picture Books to Prepare Kids for the Dentist

Visiting a pediatric dentist in Calgary for the first time can make some children feel nervous upon their visit. However, with the right tools, a trip to the dentist can be an exciting and rewarding experience. From what exactly? By reading picture books about dental health! Reading picture books with your child can help make their dental experience positive. Here are five picture books that can help to eliminate the fear of the dentist and help your child to look forward to their next appointment.

Book Recommendations From a Pediatric Dentist in Calgary

The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist

The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist by Stan and Jan Berenstain is a classic picture book for children, originally published in 1983. The book tells how the Berenstain Bears are going to the dentist for the first time. The dentist uses the traditional method of putting the child’s hand in a “big bear trap” to hold the child still, along with candy to make it enjoyable. For the longest time, this book has been great for introducing the idea of going to a dentist to young children.

Just Going to the Dentist

Just Going to the Dentist by Mercer Mayer is a classic picture book originally published in 1973. This dentist visit story is written from the child’s perspective and shows the child’s emotions and feelings during the visit. The child begins to worry about pain, the unknown, the noises and feelings and ultimately decides to run away. The dentist can reassure the child and get them to stay and finish the visit. It helps outline all the tools used and what to expect of certain procedures when using them. 

Llama Llama at the Doctor

Llama Llama at the Doctor by Anna Dewdney is a great story for introducing children to the dentist and the positive aspects of the visit. Llama Llama’s family takes him to the dentist for his first check-up and the dentist for his first tooth brushing. The dentist does a full check-up and gives Llama Llama a squeezy-heart toy as a gift. The dentist uses a tiny toothbrush to clean Llama Llama’s teeth. The dentist and the doctor both useful tools to do their jobs, and Llama Llama is rewarded with stickers when they are done. 

Dentist Trip

Dentist Trip by Anne Civardi is a simple picture book with few words, making it great for young children who may be apprehensive about the dentist. The book shows a child at home brushing their teeth and then going to the dentist for a cleaning. The dentist shows the child what tools are used. For instance, it also illustrates how a computer is used to look in their mouth. The dentist uses an instrument to scrape off any plaque from the teeth, but it doesn’t hurt. The dentist also uses a special cleaning machine to clean the child’s teeth. 

Open Wide: Tooth School Inside

Open Wide: Tooth School Inside by Laurie Keller is a non-fiction picture book that explores what happens inside a dentist’s office. The book begins by describing the office and the dentist’s tools. The reader is then taken inside the mouth. It illustrates where the teeth, gums, and plaque needs to be removed by the dentist. 

Visiting a dentist shouldn’t be a scary experience for children, and Happy Trails Children’s Dentistry is here to make sure that children feel safe and excited about their regular checkups. Happy Trails is a professional pediatric dentistry proudly serving south Calgary, and we have a goal of creating an inviting and comfortable space for children to receive the best care available. With our fantastic dentist, Dr. Sam, our young patients in Calgary will always have a positive dental experience!                                  

Is There an Age Limit to Seeing a Pediatric Dentist?

Any pediatric dentist in Calgary plays an important role in children’s teeth development. Children’s teeth grow and change throughout the years, and pediatric dentists oversee these developments while providing the necessary dental care they need. Yet, children eventually grow up. So, it poses the question: is there an age limit to seeing a pediatric dentist? Find the answer to that here. 

Appropriate Age to See a Pediatric Dentist in Calgary 

What a Pediatric Dentist in Calgary Does

Notably, pediatric dentistry in Calgary and everywhere is known for specializing in children’s oral health. Saying they care for children can sound rather vague. It only partially encapsulates the dental care they provide for varying age ranges. To understand whether there is an age limit to seeing a pediatric dentist in Calgary is to understand the scope of pediatric dentistry’s expertise in children’s teeth development. Pediatric dentists specialize in dental care for infants, toddlers, children, and teenagers. Typically, infants as young as one see one once their first tooth comes. Early visits to a pediatric dentist are best as it helps children to grow up with good oral health habits. 

The Flexibility of Age Limit

As you know, teenagers seem to be the oldest demographic among the much younger patients of pediatric dentists. Typically, they can see a patient until they’re 18 years of age. From there, they can start seeing a general dentist. However, only some people stop seeing their pediatric dentist once they’re of legal age. Nowadays, some pediatric patients have remained well past that age. The reason is to spend more time with your pediatric dentist since they have extensive knowledge of their patient’s dental history. As a result, pediatric dentists can still provide dental care for patients during college. 

Transitioning Out of Pediatric Dentistry

Depending on the pediatric dentist, it’s possible to see them well into young adulthood. Yet, at some point or another, they will need to move on from pediatric dentistry. That’s where they will need to transition from a pediatric dentist to find a general dentist. As an adult, by this time, they’re expected to see a general dentist – which can be rather intimidating! The best way to go about this change is to consult your pediatric dentist.

Having their dental history for so long, a pediatric dentist can help give insight into how to go about this shift. For instance, if their patient has special oral health needs. A pediatric dentist can recommend the right dentists with lots of experience in that area. Furthermore, they can help their older pediatric patients with the logistics of certain coverages or payment plans that would work for them. 

Even though time with a pediatric dentist will end, throughout the years, they’ve upheld a foundational part of pediatric dentistry that sticks – by teaching healthy dental habits moving forward. A pediatric dentist is a big part of any child’s dental development by providing the care they need every step of the way. And they will help one last time by preparing young adult patients to start a new chapter in their dental history. 

Visiting a dentist shouldn’t be a scary experience for children, and Happy Trails Children’s Dentistry is here to make sure that children feel safe and excited about their regular checkups. Happy Trails is a professional pediatric dentistry proudly serving south Calgary, and we have a goal of creating an inviting and comfortable space for children to receive the best care available. With our fantastic dentist, Dr. Sam, our young patients in Calgary will always have a positive dental experience!                                  

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How to Maintain Your Child’s Oral Health While Sick

With cold and flu season here, there is a high chance of your child getting sick. When they fall ill, a parent’s natural inclination is to ensure they get the right nutrients and rest to get better faster. However, parents should stay mindful of their child’s journey to recovery by also keeping up with their oral hygiene. Any pediatric dentist in Calgary can tell you how your physical and oral health is interconnected – that’s why it’s important not to neglect either one. See what you can do to ensure your child gets better and keep a healthy smile here. 

What to Keep in Mind From Your Calgary Pediatric Dentist 

teeth brushing pediatric dentistry calgary

Maintain Oral Hygiene 

This first point is quite straightforward – but it’s worth reiterating. In the context of a sick child, keeping up with brushing and flossing helps prevent harmful bacteria in your child’s mouth. Just as this is good to do so twice daily, it’s also great at assisting your child’s immune system focused on fighting whatever sickness they have. For children exhibiting vomiting symptoms, it can weaken your child’s teeth since it’s being exposed to acids. In this case, ensure they’re rinsing, brushing, and flossing to avoid potential enamel damage. 

Beware Sugary Medicines 

Despite their effectiveness, some cold and flu medicines aren’t easy to swallow. It can make a young child quite fussy, making administering medication difficult. Naturally, parents look for medicine that’s more palatable. For instance, finding a strawberry-flavoured cough syrup to help soothe a sore throat that a child can take without issue. At first, it might seem like the best solution. However, some syrups and cough drops can contain high sugar. With that said, it means after giving your child these syrups or cough drops, it leaves behind a sugary residue on their teeth. Instead, try to find medicines that are advertised as sugar-free. If not, ensure your child rinses their teeth after every time they’ve taken their medicine. 

Staying Hydrated 

Just like everyone should maintain oral hygiene, everyone should also ensure they drink enough water daily. With 60% of our body being water, keeping yourself hydrated is imperative to ensure overall wellness. Plus, as a cardinal rule for when anyone gets sick, you’re told to keep drinking fluids – namely, water. So, it should be no surprise that it ensures oral health while helping your child recover. Water eases the pain of a sore throat by soothing it while keeping the sinuses moist. A congested child risks getting dry mouth because they start breathing from their mouth. As a result, it invites bacteria to spread and lead to possible tooth decay. But drinking water helps to combat it. 

Clean Dental Appliances 

Your child is fighting a virus when they’re sick. In turn, it means they’re highly contagious and can spread easily. Naturally, anything they touch and put in their mouth would have that bacteria. You can prevent reinfection by disinfecting/cleaning or replacing certain dental appliances they use. These include things such as: 

  • Toothbrush
  • Nightguard
  • Retainer
  • Athletic mouth guard

Visiting a dentist shouldn’t be a scary experience for children, and Happy Trails Children’s Dentistry is here to make sure that children feel safe and excited about their regular checkups. Happy Trails is a professional pediatric dentistry proudly serving south Calgary, and we have a goal of creating an inviting and comfortable space for children to receive the best care available. With our fantastic dentist, Dr. Sam, our young patients in Calgary will always have a positive dental experience! 

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Tips & Tricks for a Healthy Smile this Halloween

Halloween is a fun and exciting time for children. For them, trick-or-treating promises plenty of sweets to enjoy once the night ends. Meanwhile, it can feel tough for parents to balance ensuring their child’s smile remains healthy while allowing them to eat the candies they love. Thankfully, allowing your child to enjoy Halloween treats is possible – if done responsibly. Here are a few tips and tricks to scare away any potential cavities from developing this Halloween from a trusted pediatric dentist in Calgary

The Best Tips & Tricks From a Pediatric Dentist in Calgary

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Prevent Candy Binges

After trick-or-treating, kids quickly want to indulge in their heaps of candy. Yet, any pediatric dentist in Calgary can tell you that eating too many high-sugar treats can lead to nasty cavities. Teaching your child to practice moderation is a good compromise when eating Halloween treats. After all, with so much candy, they shouldn’t eat it all at once – lest they have a stomach ache and wear away their teeth! Ensure your child isn’t constantly snacking on their candies by only allowing them to have a piece during a meal to satisfy their sweet tooth. Another important consideration is portion size. Sometimes while trick-or-treating, they get a big bar of chocolate – which usually has lots of sugar. Instead of them eating the full bar, they eat small pieces from it. This way, they can at least reduce sugar consumption.

Avoiding Certain Candy

Some candies are worse than others. Beyond high sugar content, their textures can make them harder to remove and cause enamel to wear away. The culprit candies that do this are usually sticky, chewy, sour, or long-lasting hard candies. If your child also has braces, it’s highly recommended they steer clear of these candies since it will only make maintaining their oral hygiene even harder. 

Here are a few sweets to avoid:

  • Gummy candies (e.g. gummy bears)
  • Any caramels
  • All taffy
  • Sour candies 
  • Lollipops (only if in the mouth for too long)

Choosing Alternative Treats 

Thankfully, chocolate bars and various candies aren’t the only sweet treats to eat. There are plenty of alternative treats that are healthy and nutritious that are just as delicious and sweet! 

In our Halloween blog last year, we referenced the following recipes in detail if you wish to try them out this year:

  • Mummy Pumpkin Bars
  • Snack-O’Lantern Fruit Cups
  • Mini Mummy Pizzas
  • Monster Wraps 

Beyond what’s listed, you can find various healthy alternatives online for recipes. These are great ideas for throwing a Halloween party for your children and their friends. 

Thorough Oral Hygiene

Technically, everyone should practice oral hygiene twice daily. But, when it comes to Halloween, it’s more important than ever to be proactive with it. After all, allowing sugar to settle on their teeth can lead to tooth decay that becomes cavities. Help motivate your child by getting into the Halloween spirit and making a game of ‘scaring away cavities’ through proper brushing and flossing. It’s a fun Halloween-inspired idea that helps keep your little one’s pearly whites shining! Also, a bonus tip: ensure your child drinks plenty of water! Water helps to wash away sugar still clinging to their teeth and balances the pH level in their mouths.

Visiting a dentist shouldn’t be a scary experience for children, and Happy Trails Children’s Dentistry is here to make sure that children feel safe and excited about their regular checkups. Happy Trails is a professional pediatric dentistry proudly serving south Calgary, and we have a goal of creating an inviting and comfortable space for children to receive the best care available. With our fantastic dentist, Dr. Sam, our young patients in Calgary will always have a positive dental experience!       

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How Do I Know If My Child Will Need Braces?

Children’s teeth go through varying developmental stages. They lose baby teeth and then grow into adult ones to replace them. 

Yet, when these teeth erupt, they can be misaligned. Misaligned teeth can lead to various oral health issues for your child unless addressed sooner – which is usually treated with braces. 

But how can you tell if your child’s teeth are misaligned to warrant braces? 

See if your child might need braces by learning what can cause misaligned teeth before booking an appointment with a pediatric dentist in Calgary

Signs to Look Out for According to a Calgary Pediatric Dentist

boy with braces best pediatric dentist calgary

Early Development Signs

A child losing their baby teeth for the first time is a normal part of development. The only concern a parent might have during this time is reminding their child to put their tooth underneath their pillow for the tooth fairy. Though what’s important for parents to know is when their child loses their baby teeth. Commonly, it’s expected for baby teeth to come in during the ages of one to three. When baby teeth fall out, that’s usually around the age of six, while all baby teeth should be gone and replaced with adult teeth by around the age of 12-13. However, early or late loss of baby teeth can lead to needing braces. So, if your child has experienced early or late baby teeth loss, it’s best to anticipate they might need braces. 

Certain Habit Signs 

Certain habits your child might have them wearing braces in the future. Thankfully, unlike developmental signs, you can have some control in helping to reduce your child’s chances of needing braces. 

Here are a few habits below that can create orthodontic issues:

  • Thumb sucking: Prolonged thumb sucking past the age of two to four causes teeth misalignment. 
  • Mouth breathing: Misalignment occurs since mouth breathing affects the development of your jaw & position of teeth. 
  • Problems with chewing/biting: If your child is struggling to chew or bite their food, it can mean they have misaligned teeth. Common signs are if food is left in the mouth, falls out of their mouth, or they’re slowly & improperly chewing and eating. 

If your child experiences any of these habits, consult your pediatric dentist on what you can do to rectify them and hopefully prevent needing braces. 

Clear Visual Signs 

Of all the signs your child needs braces, these are the most obvious. They’re rather hard not to overlook. Some parents might find their child’s crooked teeth cute. Unfortunately, this misplaced sentiment can harm a child’s oral health. Overlapping and crowded teeth make regular oral hygiene more difficult and lead to dental diseases like gingivitis. Braces will reduce those chances and leave them with a better, straighter smile. Beyond crooked teeth, having a misaligned jaw and improper bite leads to needing braces. 

Here are common bites that would need correcting with braces:

  • Overbite: when the upper teeth jut outward and do not overlap properly with the lower teeth.
  • Underbite: where the lower just outward does not coincide properly with the upper teeth.
  • Crossbite: where the teeth do not overlap correctly.
  • Open bite: where there is a gap between the upper and lower front teeth, even when the mouth is closed.

If your child exhibits any of these signs, it would be best to book a pediatric dentist appointment to confirm whether your child needs braces or not.

Visiting a dentist shouldn’t be a scary experience for children, and Happy Trails Children’s Dentistry is here to make sure that children feel safe and excited about their regular checkups. Happy Trails is a professional pediatric dentistry proudly serving south Calgary, and we have a goal of creating an inviting and comfortable space for children to receive the best care available. With our fantastic dentist, Dr. Sam, our young patients in Calgary will always have a positive dental experience!                                  

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What To Do If Your Child is Scared of the Dentist

Any pediatric dentist in Calgary has seen first-hand how scared some children get about the dentist. It can leave many parents at a loss for what to do to quell their child’s dental anxiety. Thankfully, there are ways you can help ease your child’s fears before your next visit. 

See what you can do here!

Understanding Children’s Dental Anxiety from a Pediatric Dentist in Calgary

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What is Dental Anxiety?

Adults and children alike can experience dental anxiety. Yet, what exactly is it? For children, dental anxiety is the crippling feeling of either fear, anxiety, or nervousness at the thought of a dental appointment. These feelings can potentially turn into odontophobia. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), odontophobia is the fear of the dentist and is a real phobia that can develop if left unaddressed. That said, there are various reasons for dental anxiety in children. In this case, you must get to the root of your child’s fear of the dentist and see how you can quell their anxieties surrounding it. 

Reasons for Dental Anxiety 

Not all children’s reason for dental anxiety is the same. Their fear can stem from plenty of places. Here are a few reasons why a child might be afraid of a dentist:

A Bad Experience

If your child’s first experience at a previous dentist wasn’t great, it could have them scared to go for another dental visit. Furthermore, if a child only hears about others’ bad dental visits, they will naturally develop that fear. For children’s first time at the dentist, they’re already afraid of the unknown – best not to add more nightmare fuel to their imaginations with talk like that. 

Unfriendly Environment

For some children, the smells and sounds of a dental office can seem overwhelming. Most notably, it can be an issue for children with special needs or who have sensory problems. A harsh clinical environment can leave them afraid, and even how dentists dress and conduct themselves can seem frightening to a child. In addition, some can become adverse to the dentist if they feel embarrassed about their teeth’ condition.

Scary Procedures

Mostly, what is involved in a dental procedure can scare children. A common culprit of dental anxiety stems from needles since children worry about the pain. Others fear the sound of drills or have difficulty breathing or gagging during a dental procedure. Also, some sensitive children can become scared of seeing blood if they see one during a procedure.  

A Solution to Dental Anxiety 

Thankfully, there is a solution for dental anxiety. If your child was having issues with the dentist’s clinic, you might consider having them see a pediatric dentist instead. 

Pediatric dentistry specializes in children’s oral care. They’re more than qualified as they can make a dental visit seem more fun rather than scary. They can communicate with children to understand their fear and find ways to ease them, along with giving you tips as a parent on what to do too.

Furthermore, a pediatric dental clinic is more welcoming than your typical dentist. They’re usually colourful and kid-friendly by providing toys to keep them from stewing in anxiety. And lastly, more visits will also help normalize them so they won’t be scared anymore. 

Visiting a dentist shouldn’t be a scary experience for children, and Happy Trails Children’s Dentistry is here to make sure that children feel safe and excited about their regular checkups. Happy Trails is a professional pediatric dentistry proudly serving south Calgary, and we have a goal of creating an inviting and comfortable space for children to receive the best care available. With our fantastic dentist, Dr. Sam, our young patients in Calgary will always have a positive dental experience!

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When Should I Take My Kid to the Dentist?

An infant’s smile is utterly heart-melting and wholesome. For a new parent, you want to ensure their smile remains not only cute but also healthy as well. However, you might be asking yourself: when is the best time to take my child to a dental visit?

Learn when you should take your child, so you can book an appointment with a pediatric dentist in Calgary to help your little one’s oral health for years to come! 

boy sitting in dentist chair childrens dentist calgary
Little boy sitting on a dentist’s chair.

The Right Time for a Dental Visit

A child’s growth makes every development a milestone – like the appearance of their first tooth! 

If you notice a single pearly white tooth, you should take that as an indication to set up a dental appointment for your infant. According to the Canadian Dental Association, it’s recommended infants get assessed by a dentist within six months of the eruption of the first tooth or by one year of age. 

You might wonder why an infant needs a dental visit so early, but there are good reasons for it! 

Namely, one of the most important reasons is to have your child visit the dentist before there is a problem with their teeth. Since children grow rapidly, it’s best to schedule dental exams every six months, so it’s easier for your child’s dentist to catch any minor oral issues early and give advice on their oral care. 

Plus, introducing your child early to a dental environment helps build good dental habits that will remain as they grow up. 

How to Prepare for First Dental Visit

Before you see a dentist, you want to ensure that you’re going to the right one for your child’s oral care. You want to find a dentist that specializes in pediatric dentistry in Calgary in particular. 

A general dentist’s office can handle children, but not to the same standards as a pediatric dentist. Pediatric dentists have extensive additional training in the development, anatomy and conditions that are specific to infants, children, and adolescents (including children with special needs). With a pediatric dentist, you can ensure you’re getting the best care while they provide a child-friendly environment.

In which case, how do you prepare for a pediatric dentist appointment?

If you’re taking your infant for the first time, you can start by coming up with a list of questions you have about practicing good oral hygiene for your baby. In this way, you can ensure you’re properly maintaining your infant’s oral health. 

Also, another good thing to consider is doing paperwork before the appointment so you’re not stuck in the waiting room for too long. 

However, if your child’s dental visit is at a later age, you can help them adjust to the experience by showing them dental visit videos. It can help your child grasp what to expect without feeling anxious about it.

What the First Dental Visit Looks Like

The first appointment with a pediatric dentist allows you to be with your infant or child in the room. Pediatric dentists are adept at helping to soothe a child and make them feel comfortable first before performing a routine examination. You can expect them to look for signs of tooth decay by checking your child’s gums, jaw, and bite for frenum issues or other issues that may affect teeth or speech patterns. Once done, your pediatric dentist will clean your child’s gums and teeth before concluding with ways to support their oral care and address any questions you might have. 

Visiting a dentist shouldn’t be a scary experience for children, and Happy Trails Children’s Dentistry is here to make sure that children feel safe and excited about their regular checkups. Happy Trails is a professional pediatric dentistry proudly serving south Calgary, and we have a goal of creating an inviting and comfortable space for children to receive the best care available. With our fantastic dentist, Dr. Sam, our young patients in Calgary will always have a positive dental experience!

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