AS PARENTS, EVERY milestone a new baby reaches is incredibly exciting, and sometimes we can get impatient and even start worrying long before we should. To get out in front of that tendency, let’s lay out the average schedule of baby teeth development and eruption.
Baby Teeth Development and Eruption
The process of growing teeth (called odontogenesis) begins in week six of pregnancy and continues after the teeth have begun erupting because the roots still have some growing to do. Babies typically get their teeth two by two, starting with the bottom front teeth somewhere between six and ten months old. Next are usually the top front teeth between months eight and twelve. After that, they get their bottom lateral incisors, then the top lateral incisors.
You might expect the canines to be next, but nope! Next up are the lower molars, then the upper molars, and only then is it time for the canines. Completing the set of baby teeth is the second set of molars, which will usually arrive by age three.
What If My Child’s Teeth Are Behind Schedule?
There’s no need to worry if baby teeth seem slow to arrive, but if there still aren’t any by the 18-month mark, a dentist should take a look. No matter whether teeth are early or late, though, bring them to the dentist once the first tooth erupts!
Start Brushing Them As Soon As You See Them!
Teeth need daily brushing even when they’re brand new, and it’s great to start establishing brushing habits early and flossing habits as soon as they have two teeth that touch. If they’re used to the routine, they’ll be more prepared to continue these essential habits themselves for a lifetime of healthy teeth.
We love every member of our practice family!
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
ANYONE WHO SWIMS or scuba dives frequently could encounter some unique dental issues if they aren’t careful. Let’s take a closer look at the big ones.
Chlorine’s Effect on Teeth
The longer teeth are exposed to acidic chlorine ions in pool water, the more likely they are to develop brown or yellow stains. These are called swimmer’s calculus. As good as chlorine is at keeping a public pool sanitary for all swimmers, it can become acidic enough to affect tooth enamel. Swimmers can minimize this effect by swimming with their mouths closed as much as possible and drinking plenty of water to rinse traces of pool water off of their teeth.
Scuba Divers With Dental Work
Scuba divers have a different set of concerns, particularly “tooth squeeze” or barodontalgia. That feeling of pressure building up in the ears when diving to the bottom of the pool is very similar to what happens inside each tooth, especially teeth with untreated cavities or ineffective dental treatment. The pressure can build to such a degree that it can even fracture teeth, which is why we strongly encourage divers to visit the dentist before starting a new diving season.
Divers often also deal with ill-fitting scuba mouthpieces, which can lead to jaw strain and even TMD symptoms. We recommend getting a custom-fitted mouthpiece to protect the teeth and jaws.
Still Wondering About Dental Health and Water Activities?
If you have any lingering questions about maintaining your dental health while enjoying water activities, don’t hesitate to reach out! Remember, besides the fun and splash, wet surfaces around pools pose a slip hazard that could lead to dental injuries. Stay cautious and protect your smile while you dive into summer fun!
Wishing all our patients a wonderful and safe summer!
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
DENTAL ANXIETY KEEPS millions of people from seeking dental treatment every year, and it affects kids too. Parents can help their kids develop a positive mindset about the dentist by following a few simple tips:
1. Start Early
As soon as a child has their first tooth, they can benefit from seeing the dentist.
2. Play Pretend
For young children, some imaginative play can help this new experience seem less intimidating. Take turns with them playing the role of the dentist and the patient.
3. Explain to Older Kids
Kids will be more comfortable when they understand the situation, so if they’re old enough, simply explain what dental visits are like and why they’re important for their teeth.
4. Prioritize Dental Hygiene
If kids already understand how brushing and flossing keep their smiles healthy, they are more likely to appreciate what the dentist can do for them.
5. Come Meet the Dentist Ahead of Time
Instead of diving straight into the dental exam and cleaning, schedule a meet-and-greet so that the dentist won’t feel like such a stranger!
6. Be There for Them
The easiest way to make the first few dental appointments less scary is by coming along and being present in the exam room to offer support and encouragement.
We Look Forward to Meeting You and Your Child
Making that first visit a good one for your child is critical. It gets out ahead of potential dental anxiety, builds a foundation for a lifetime of trust in the dentist, and makes prioritizing their dental health much easier. Please bring us any questions you have about your child’s dental care.
We’re excited to help you make the first checkup fun for your child!
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
GUM DISEASE, TOOTH DECAY, and other oral health problems don’t set in overnight. That’s why it’s so important to have regular checkups and to be diligent with daily oral hygiene habits. If it’s been a while since the last trip to the dentist, here are the top 5 signs it’s time to schedule a quick visit:
1. Persistent Tooth Pain or Mouth Sores
Pain is the body’s alarm system, so don’t ignore it! Tooth pain rarely goes away on its own and can become much worse without treatment. A mouth sore that isn’t healing on its own could also be a sign of infection or disease.
2. Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums could be the result of an overly aggressive flossing or brushing technique (this is why soft bristles are best), but it’s rarely a sign of good gum health. Most likely, it’s a symptom of gum disease and should be checked by a dentist.
3. A Problem With Old Dental Work
If an old filling or crown becomes too worn out, damaged, or falls off, get to the dentist quickly so that it can be repaired before infection has a chance to set in.
4. A Medical Condition
A serious medical condition like diabetes or an eating disorder can impact oral health. So could a new prescription.
5. Bad Breath
Chronic bad breath isn’t just a source of embarrassment, it’s often a sign of a more serious problem like gum disease or tooth decay. Bring that problem to the dentist for help!
And a Bonus Reason…
One more sign you’re due for a dentist visit is that it’s been longer than six months since your last one! There’s no need to wait until you’re experiencing symptoms to visit the dentist. Maintenance on a car is easier to do than repairs, and the same is true of our teeth.
Preventative care is key where healthy smiles are concerned!
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
TEETHING CAN BE upsetting for babies and their parents alike! We’re here to help with a few simple teething tips:
1. Learn to spot signs of teething.
Typically around the six-month mark, the first teeth will begin to emerge. A teething baby may show behavioral changes that are actually teething symptoms, such as decreased interest in breastfeeding, excessive drooling, refusal of foods they normally like, difficulty sleeping, or general irritability. They might also become more interested in chewing or sucking on things.
2. Recognize what ISN’T a sign of teething.
Sometimes parents misidentify other symptoms as having to do with teething, when it could be an unrelated illness. A runny nose, fever, or diarrhea could be signs of a viral infection. Consult a pediatrician if they get worse.
3. Try different soothing techniques.
Continue breastfeeding if possible, and provide something safe to chew on like a teething toy, but be cautious when choosing teething toys. Make sure they do not contain PVC, BPA, or phthalates — all compounds that potentially cause harm if ingested by a child. Some toys can be chilled to provide extra relief, and some can be fastened to the child’s clothing.
Bring Us Your Teething Questions
If you’re stressing over your child’s teething symptoms, don’t hesitate to get in touch! This is a strange new experience for both you and your child, and we’re here to help. Also keep in mind that as soon as the first tooth appears, it’s a great time for baby’s first dental visit.
Your child deserves the best, including the best of dental health treatment!
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
There are so many options to replace lost teeth. Some people need clarification because of the many choices on the market. Refrain from reverting to removable dentures, partials, or bridges because you have information overload. Dental implants are one of the single-most crucial restorative dentistry options in the history of dental care.
Dental professionals consider dental implants the most effective and esthetic tooth replacement option. Implants are permanent long-term solutions designed to replace missing teeth. Your new artificial teeth function like natural teeth and beautifully enhance your smile. Dental implants are the best alternative to traditional dentures.
Comfort and Stability
Sticky adhesives hold dentures, whereas unsightly wires or crowns secure partials and bridges. Although these are very effective to a certain degree, they cannot compare to a healthy natural tooth root. The titanium post replicates a tooth root and fuses to the jaw bone, making them the most durable and comfortable replacement teeth option.
In addition to comfort and stability is the sheer fact that they are just much more manageable. Sliding dentures make chewing and speaking difficult. An implant-supported artificial tooth functions like your natural tooth and allows you to eat your favorite foods without discomfort.
Natural Looking
The advantage of dental implants in Midlothian, Virginia, is that they look entirely natural. Traditional dentures have shiny plastic gums and tend to look artificial. Partials and bridges have metal wires or brackets that show through when smiling.
The implant post is deep into the gum and invisible from the outside with the dental implant procedure. Coupled with perfectly matched porcelain, you are guaranteed beautiful, natural results.
Are Dental Implants for Me?
If you’re missing a single tooth, multiple teeth, or an entire arch of teeth, then it is no doubt you’ve been considering your options for replacement teeth.
To be a good candidate for dental implants or implant-supported dentures, you need the following:
– Healthy teeth and gums
– Enough jawbone to support the implant
– Good oral hygiene and no periodontal disease preventing you from having surgery.
– A non-smoker or to have quit a few weeks before treatment and during the recovery period
– A fully developed jaw
Suppose you have had tooth loss and are interested in dental implants. In that case, our dentists at Virginia Center For Advanced Dentistry perform an initial evaluation to examine your oral structures and determine whether you are an eligible candidate.
The essential qualification is good oral health and sufficient jaw bone. With tooth loss comes bone loss and the need for a bone grafting procedure before the implant placement can start. The implant must have enough jaw bone to secure it.
Beyond that, dental implants are pretty straightforward. They are placed with the help of a local anesthetic. Many patients return to work a day after the procedure.
Over-the-counter pain medications are adequate for alleviating any pain and discomfort. On average, the healing process is about four to six months.
Schedule a Consultation for Dental Implants Today!
Implant restorations have the power to restore your smile and give you a whole new lease on life. The first step is to determine if you are a suitable candidate. Schedule an appointment for an initial exam at Virginia Center for Advanced Dentistry, your provider for dental implants in Midlothian, Virginia. We are happy to answer any questions or concerns about the entire arch or individual implant treatment plans.
Lately, your teeth have been very sensitive to hot and cold liquids. Or perhaps you chipped or completely knocked out a tooth. The pain can be excruciating, but you can’t help but be concerned about what an emergency dentist appointment will cost. Any dental issues that cause extreme tooth pain affect your quality of life and must be treated immediately.
Not only are dental emergencies inconvenient, but they also cost a little more than a routine checkup. You pay for knowledge, extensive experience, high-quality modern equipment, and availability. In short, you are paying for the best possible care right when you need it most.
Standard emergency dental procedures are root canals, filling cavities, tooth extractions, and finishing crowns.
The starting price of an urgent dental visit depends on the emergency and whether you are visiting during regular practice hours or not. A base fee is set for the initial consultation and then increases depending on the type of treatment.
Many things may increase the price of your dental visit, including:
– the severity of the dental problem
– location of the affected teeth in the mouth
– how many teeth are involved
So, suppose your emergency is with the front tooth. In that case, the cost is less than an intermediate tooth with more than one root, like a bicuspid. Molars, on the other hand, are more pricey because they have more roots.
Tooth extraction is a typical dental emergency. Suppose the tooth is infected or fractured, and your emergency dentist has decided a root canal will not be affective. In that case, an emergency tooth extraction is necessary.
The cost of the extraction varies on where the fracture is in the affected tooth and whether you require sedation dentistry. If the tooth has erupted through the gum, it is considered non-surgical. But, if the tooth is impacted in the gum and requires anesthesia, the price will increase.
Fillings for cavities are also common, especially with slight fractures, decay, or surface damage. Your emergency dentist in Midlothian, commonly uses silver amalgam or a resin-based composite. Composite resins match your natural teeth and are a bit more costly to produce than silver amalgam fillings. Depending on which you choose, the cost slightly changes.
Knowing all these details well in advance will help you understand what to expect and hopefully encourage you to seek treatment.
Overall, good oral health is the best way to avoid higher costs. Preventive oral hygiene with good at-home oral hygiene is the most cost-friendly. And when it comes to contact or high adrenalin sports, always wear protective mouth gear.
Visit Your Emergency Dentist in Midlothian, Virginia
Don’t suffer through extreme dental pain alone. Please do not call the emergency room if you require an emergency dentistry visit. Please call our office, Virginia Center for Advanced Dentistry. We’re available 24 hours a day and will work with you to provide affordable and effective emergency dental care services to restore your smile and relieve your pain.
If you are experiencing a dental emergency in Midlothian, Virginia, please schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Your dental trauma is a high priority, and we do our best to offer same day appointments.
With so many dental professionals, most people don’t know where to start when looking for a new dentist in Midlothian, Virginia. Don’t worry; we understand. Our dental practice has compiled a short list of helpful tips to find the best dentist near you.
#1 Internet Search
The first step is to Google “dentists near me” to find all the practices in the Midlothian area. Do not pick out the first dentist in the search results, as there is no guarantee they are a good fit for you. Instead, take some time to read the reviews of other patients’ experiences.
What do they have to say about the dentist? Do they mention their dental care treatments or how their overall experience was? Are the reviews mostly positive?
Hop onto their website and take a virtual tour of the practice to get an idea of the atmosphere. Spend a little time reading the dentist and staff bio pages.
#2 Location & Comfort
Convenience is crucial when it comes to finding a new dentist. Our dentists highly recommend finding a practice located within the surrounding area of your home or workplace. It guarantees you get to your dental checkups and exams. It can also help find immediate help in the case of an emergency dental situation.
Find a dental practice where you feel comfortable in their care. Plan a physical visit to look around and feel the atmosphere. Does the team greet you when you walk through the door? Do they kindly answer your questions?
#3 Recommendations
The best way to find a dentist near you is by asking those you trust the most. Do your close friends, or family members have experience with any dental practices in the area? What do they like about their dentist? What dental procedures have they had?
Of course, choose dental professionals that provide dentistry exams and teeth cleaning. But, no one knows what challenges they will have later, so finding a dental practice offering extensive comprehensive dental services makes sense.
Do you need pediatric dentistry or family dentistry? Are you considering dental implants, wisdom teeth removal, crowns and bridges, or even cosmetic dentistry procedures like teeth whitening? Plan now so you don’t have to find another dentist later. You never know when gum disease will occur or if you will require root canal therapy later.
#4 Insurance & Financing Options
Does the dentist accept your insurance plan, or do they agree to submit claims to your provider?
Not everyone is lucky enough to have dental insurance. Does the practice offer financing? It is crucial to determine whether they provide package deals, payment plans, or out-of-pocket prices.
Virginia Center for Advanced Dentistry | Best Dentist Near Me
At Virginia Center for Advanced Dentistry, children of all ages are welcome to our practice. Dr. Simon, your children’s dentist in Midlothian, loves teaching kids about good oral health. The earlier they learn good oral hygiene habits, the better their health for the future.
Oral hygiene is critical to your child’s overall health. All children need healthy teeth to speak, eat, and smile comfortably. A children’s dentist recommends starting good oral hygiene habits as early as possible in childhood.
But how do you teach children the importance of caring for their teeth? Below are six tips we’ve compiled to get you off to a good start.
1. Supervise Them
The younger the child is, the more supervision they will need. As a parent, you need to ensure they’re not only brushing their teeth twice a day, but doing so correctly. Watch them, give them pointers along the way, and step in when needed to clean up spots they may have missed.
2. Morning and Bedtime Routines
Making good oral hygiene part of a morning or bedtime routine will feel very natural. Have your children brush their teeth at the same time in their routine. For example, it can be the last thing they do before jumping into bed and before heading out the door in the morning. Regardless of how busy you are, your children should never skip this part of the routine!
3. Help Your Child Floss
Flossing is equally as important as brushing. Unfortunately, it is a more challenging routine to establish due to the difficulty of maneuvering. Start by demonstrating on your own teeth. Then, help them guide the floss into position in their mouths.
Consider using flossing picks, as they may be easier for little hands. Help your children floss the back, hard-to-reach teeth for them until they grow more comfortable doing so on their own.
4. Encourage Healthy Food Choices
Your child’s diet is one of the essential elements to their oral health. Allowing kids unlimited amounts of sweets, juices, or other junk food won’t result in healthy pearly whites. Children who eat unhealthy, high-sugar diets when they are young tend to crave these foods in adulthood.
Instead, opt for healthy snacks, like fruit, string cheese, nuts, hard-boiled eggs, and yogurt are all tooth-friendly snacks. Sweets are great for special occasions and holidays, but always in moderation.
5. Lead by Example
All children universally copy their parents to a fault. Your child watches you and looks to you as a role model. So, what better way to show them the importance of oral health than to look out for your own, too. Make a point to let them observe you brush, floss, and make healthy dietary choices, and they will follow suit.
6. Six Month Dental Appointments
Everyone, regardless of age, should be visiting their dentist’s office at least once every six months. This checkup is vital to maintaining oral health and catching problems before they start. Children often are calmer and have more fun when they visit a children’s dentist.
Dr. Simon understands that many young patients are nervous about visiting a children’s dentist. Everyone at Virginia Center for Advanced Dentistry takes extra time to ensure that our youngest patients feel comfortable and at ease. We can offer you and your child additional tooth care tips to help with at-home dental care along with many other dental services.
In my 57 years of life, Dr. Simon is the best dentist I’ve ever seen. We are a military family and have moved several (more than I care to count) times. With each move comes the same challenges relating to finding new doctors, dentists, etc. A good dentist is particularly hard to find, as they are f… Read more
Colleen Moore
Service is great, staff is knowledgeable and courteous. Highly recommended.
Roy Johnson Sr.
I recently went to visit Dr.Simon and was informed that I needed quite a bit of dental work, this came as a shock to me and I was of course very nervous. Dr.Simon and his staff were very kind and accommodating through the entire process. The work that he did was excellent, he takes pride in what he … Read more
Dr. Simon is very sincere and thorough. He takes the time necessary to explain the procedures, expected outcomes and future care. His compassionate approach with a healing hand to all orthotic procedures make him a well-trusted dental professional and an exemplary human-being.
I’ve been a patient of Dr. Simon for many years and he’s the best! I’m faithful about having a check-up every six months because Dr. Simon is always on time and very considerate. I like the Brandermill location and his staff is professional, friendly and courteous.
