South Riding Family Dentistry

How to Address Bad Oral Hygiene Habits in Your Kids

This video explains that thumb sucking is completely natural, especially in young children. While many stop by eight months of age, many continue into preschool or kindergarten with this habit. However, parents should be aware that thumb sucking when the permanent teeth begin to erupt can exert pressure on the teeth and jaw, leading to a variety of dental issues.

Many children feel calmed and soothed by sucking their thumbs. However, over time, excessive thumb sucking can lead to dental problems. 

South Riding Family Dentistry in Chantilly is dedicated to the oral health of you and your children. Our family dentists are knowledgeable and professional and understand how to treat both adults and young patients. Learn more about us online or by calling (888) 802-1571.

Why Root Canals Are No Reason to Fear the Dentist

A root canal is a minor surgical procedure performed by your dentist to address toothaches or infection. Many people cringe when they hear the words “root canal.” However, the truth is that a root canal performed by your dentist can help alleviate pain and prevent dental problems down the road.  

Root Canals Are Straightforward Procedures
During your root canal, your dentist will remove the pulp and tooth nerve from inside your tooth, replacing them with a dental filler and sealant to strengthen the tooth. Teeth which have had root canals can be sealed off with a dental filling or a crown, depending on the type of work done. Root canals are outpatient procedures that can be performed using local anesthesia. With the use of modern dental techniques, these procedures can be quite easy and painless for the patient.

Root Canals Are Beneficial to Your Oral Health
During a root canal, your dentist will remove pulp infested with bacteria to protect your tooth from further decay or in an attempt to save the tooth from extraction and replacement. Root canals can help with dental pain caused by severe tooth infections. They can also help to relieve pain associated with an exposed tooth nerve.

If you have continual or sharp pain in a tooth, call your dentist to schedule a checkup, because the sooner you address your pain, the easier the procedure will be. By addressing the problem early, you will also save yourself from more serious procedures, such as tooth extraction.  

Your dentist can explain more about root canals and other procedures. To learn more, get in touch with South Riding Family Dentistry. We are committed to helping you understand your dental care options. Call us at (888) 802-1571 to learn about our practice in the Aldie area. 

Find More Oral Hygiene Tips For The Whole Family At These Sites

At South Riding Family Dentistry, we strive to provide the best in dental care for you and your family. From general family dentistry to cosmetic treatments, we are here to help your family smile brightly and confidently for life. Call (888) 802-1571 to schedule an appointment at our Chantilly office. Also, check out these links for more information on how to keep your family in good oral health.

Did you know that green tea is good for your oral health? Find out more on ScienceDaily.com.
Check out these eight ways to encourage kids to brush their teeth on ParentingSquad.com.
Learn what to do in the case of a dental injury on KidsHealth.org.
Learn about some of the detrimental side effects of thumb sucking on LiveStrong.com.
Get some advice on tooth care for children on BabyCenter.com.

How Healthy Baby Teeth Set the Foundation for a Lifetime of Good Oral Health

Baby teeth may fall out, but they still set the stage for a lifetime of healthy dental habits that can benefit your child for years to come. It’s important to work with your family dentist to promote good oral habits for your child. Here is why your child’s baby teeth are so important and how you can help them stay healthy:

Healthy Teeth
Baby teeth fall out to make way for permanent teeth, but that is no excuse to skimp on their care. Baby teeth are just as susceptible to cavities as permanent teeth, and unnecessary tooth pain can distract or distress your child. In fact, this discomfort can even cause him to associate visits to the dentist with pain or worry. Additionally, the health of your child’s baby teeth plays an important role in how he learns to eat and speak, so keeping those primary teeth healthy is essential to ensuring your child doesn’t suffer from speech or other facial problems later in life.

Healthy Habits
Teaching your child to care for his baby teeth not only keeps his mouth healthy, but it also helps your child establish healthy and positive dental habits that will benefit him for life. Regular brushing and flossing are the keys to preventing cavities and gum disease, while relaxing visits to the dentist help reinforce a positive relationship with your dental care provider. By teaching your child healthy dental habits early on, you show him the importance of caring for his body and his mouth.

Help your child learn healthy oral hygiene habits with the help of the dentists at South Riding Family Dentistry. We focus on the comfort and health of our patients, both young and old. Learn more about our Herndon-area practice on our website or by calling us at (888) 802-1571.

What to Do When a Baby Tooth Is Knocked Out

Children are often on the go. If your toddler takes a fall and knocks out a baby tooth, you need to know what to do to ensure your child is safe.  

This video explains everything you’ll need to do to deal with a knocked out tooth. Apply pressure with gauze or a washcloth to stop any bleeding. Clean the tooth in running water, and store it in a plastic bag before calling your dentist.

If your child loses a tooth, call the family dentists at South Riding Family Dentistry for help. We offer 24-hour emergency dental services to residents of the Herndon area, so check out our website or call (888) 802-1571 today!