6 reasons your child's baby teeth are more important than you think

Parents of young children often forget to take care of baby teeth. They are so busy with the baby, they don't realize that baby's first set of teeth can affect their child's future dental health and how much it will cost them in the long run! It is crucial for parents to focus on taking care of baby teeth as soon as possible. 

I'm often asked, "are baby teeth really that important?" 

This question might seem like a simple one to answer and many people will say "No." But the truth is baby teeth have an impact on children's development in life and should not be taken for granted. 

Children need healthy baby teeth so their long-term oral health can develop well too. Here are six reasons why your child's baby teeth should matter more than you think!

What Role Do Baby Teeth Play?

Baby teeth play a key role in your baby's development. They help children learn how to speak and even eat properly! That is why it is important for parents to take care of baby teeth as soon as possible, so that the baby can reap all the benefits they offer.

Unbeknownst to most parents baby teeth are not just a painful foundational event in their child's life.  They are actually more important than you think.

Baby teeth are essential for your baby to be able to chew and break food down into small pieces so that they can swallow properly. They also help children learn how to speak in the process of chewing, especially when it comes time for baby's first words! 

Do baby teeth affect the health of permanent teeth?

Absolutely! In fact as dentists we can quite accurately predict a child's dental health and outlook in adulthood by looking at their baby teeth.  Having teeth that a baby can chew with is important because they are forming these shapes and patterns that will carry on into adulthood.

Having healthy baby teeth means a child's long-term dental health is much more likely to be healthy if their baby teeth aren't decaying or don't have any other issues. 

Alignment and position of adult teeth...

...are all determined by baby teeth - it's the baby teeth that lay down foundations for what will happen in adulthood.

Consider this: your child may have a good number of baby teeth missing even before they get their adult set! This is because baby life changes so quickly, and children are continually shedding baby teeth to make room for new ones as they grow. 

Poor oral health as a baby affects more than just how healthy someone looks; it can also affect a person's quality of life and sense of well-being. 

Proper health and nutrition

I often see parents complaining about a child being a "bad eater" or a "fussy eater". The truth is that these issues are often caused by baby teeth that are impacted and misshapen or baby teeth with decay, as well as digestive issues from not being able to chew properly. 

Between the ages of about six months to three years, a baby's first set of teeth will start coming in - this is a time when parents can influence their children's oral health. But if there is poor diet and no brushing because there aren't any baby teeth yet for chewing food, then these early foundations may be weaker than necessary. 

Bad eating habits during those times may also have an impact on long term dental care options such as extractions and braces - all of which make parents anxious and stressed because they result in pain for the child and and added expense for the parent. 

In later life, impacted tooth enamel could also lead to high blood pressure and kidney problems.

Baby teeth affect speech development

If baby teeth are missing or malformed, then a child's articulation could be impaired because they cannot pronounce certain sounds correctly during speech therapy.

Unfortunately, parents of children with speech difficulties rarely pay enough attention to their child's dental health as a contributing factor. 

But studies have shown that baby teeth affect speech development and children who have baby teeth that are missing or malformed can suffer from difficulties in articulating certain sounds.

Concentration and self-esteem

Have you ever seen an adult hide their smile by putting their hand in front of their face? Children are no different. They are also conscious of their shape of their teeth, maybe even more so than adults.

Baby teeth affect children at different stages in their development than adults because kids tend to be more conscious about how their teeth look; this may lead to emotional insecurity as well as social anxiety issues. 

This also isn't just a question of looks or aesthetics. Crooked baby teeth may cause jaw pain that could persist for life, resulting in debilitating headaches and migraines, locked jaws, stiff necks and even back pain. 

It's not hard to imagine that a child who is constantly trying to hide a crooked smile will not brimming with self-esteem and as a result their concentration at school or other extra-curricular activities may also suffer. 

Baby teeth affect the development of facial bones and muscles

Because they have a big impact on the baby's tongue, palate, jaw and even breathing.

The good news is that the younger a child is when their malformed baby teeth are removed or filled with dental sealant, the more likely it will be that all of these systems start to develop normally.

Crooked baby teeth can cause long term physical problems like pain in muscles and joints which might result in many of the ailments I've described above. 

What happens when baby tooth decay becomes an issue?

In many cases, the baby tooth may need to be removed in order for permanent teeth to grow in properly, which isn't always easy! 

Sometimes children under the age of five also need surgery due to tooth decay too since it often affects multiple areas of their mouth at once. 

We do our best here at Heidelberg Dentist so parents know what's happening with their kids' mouths as well as how to look after them at home.

How should I look after my child's baby teeth?

There are a few simple steps that parents can take to ensure baby teeth stay healthy, such as:

• Ensuring your child brushes their baby teeth twice daily.
• Checking for signs of tooth decay and treating it quickly if there is any concern. 
• Never dipping baby pacifiers in sugar or honey since this increases the risk of tooth decay. 

We also recommend seeing our dentist at Heidelberg Dentist regularly so we can monitor progress and catch anything before it starts! 

We want you to be confident that your baby's mouth will remain strong and bright throughout life – contact us today with any questions or concerns about caring for your child's baby teeth.

Children's Dentistry Options

Or you can book an appointment by calling us on (03) 9459 6300 during business hours

Publisher: Heidelberg Dentist

How dentists can offer solutions to your child's bed-wetting

Bed wetting is quite a common occurrence amongst young children, however bed wetting is concerning after the age of 5 years, not only socially, as it can be an embarrassing occurrence for children to go through, but it also is an indication and sign of breathing disturbances during sleep.

Recent studies show that there are numerous links between bed wetting and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA). These studies also highlight that children with OSA often have a high palate, a more vertical facial growth pattern and nasal obstruction.

Does sleep apnoea in children lead to bed-wetting?

Yes. There is very strong evidence to suggest that your child's bed-wetting could be a symptom of poor sleep health.

When there are changes in obstructed breathing, this causes the blood pressure changes in the abdomen, hindering the bladder’s capacity to hold urine. The increased stress in blood pressure also leads to the release of hormones and sodium ions that increases urine production and excretion.

How do I get my kid to stop wetting the bed?

You're reading this because you've probably already tried encouraging your child; scheduling toilet breaks; shifting drinking times; and likely many other tactics. Right now you might even be running out of clean bedsheets to put on your child's bed.

Don't worry. There is a more scientific approach to helping your to stop wetting the bed.

Because we already know that poor sleep habits can lead to bed-wetting in children, let's work out whether your child's bed-wetting is a result of some form of sleep apnoea.

Now, the obvious question is how can you tell if your child is getting poor quality sleep? Apart from bed-wetting, look for these symptoms when your child sleeps:

• Snoring, even if it's no very loud
• Difficulty breathing at night
• Breathing with their mouth open

If your child shows these symptoms, our gentle and patient children's dentists may be able to help.

Solutions like removal of adenoids and tonsils as well as palate expansion have proven to show great outcomes in reducing bed-wetting and better sleep quality.

A widened palate can also reduce resistance to airflow, and improve breathing outcomes in children. Due to new digital technology, this widening can be achieved with new techniques such as Myofunctional therapy or Myobrace, as it's commonly known. 

Myobrace is also proven to be quite effective as opposed to conventional surgery and orthodontic treatment, whilst addressing the critical long term solution to airway obstruction and disruptions to sleep.

Bed-wetting can be difficult to deal with for both you and your child. It is important for you to understand that this is a common first line sign of OSA. 

If left untreated in childhood, OSA can is proven to lead to cognitive development issues, concentration problems and an impaired overall quality of life.

Our gentle and patient gentle and patient children's dentists will be able to discuss the options with you and help you choose an option that helps your child stop wetting the bed and enjoy a more fulfilling life, but also fits your budget. 

Kids' Myobrace Treatment

Or you can book an appointment by calling us on (03) 9459 6300 during business hours

Publisher: Heidelberg Dentist

How to make teething rusks at home for your baby

Teething is never an easy road for the baby and the parents. At times we may feel very helpless as our babies go through the awful process. They are so young to comprehend that it really hurts. However It’s a very natural process that babies need to endure and get through. As parents, we can actually do something to help make teething easier.

What are rusks?

A rusk is a hard baked bread or biscuit which is used as a teething food for babies. They’re created so babies can bite & chew down without even cracking the rusk.

This is one great substitute for teething rings because the ingredients are basically organic and natural in the forms of milk, wheat, and it contains no added sugar. They taste great which makes a great snack for toddlers too!

What age can you give a baby a rusk?

It’s best to give rusks when you have started solids and your baby can grasp objects properly. Even though its unlikely that they will be able to break through the rusk, its vital that the baby is being watched for signs of choking or if the rusk breaks.

Are teething rusks safe?

Yes, as long as the baby is being watched, and normal safety precautions are taking place. Remember, you know your baby best and you should modify my recipe to suit your baby's needs and your own situation.

As a dentist who treats children every week anecdotal evidence (as well as my experience) tells me that teeth rusks can be very soothing for our babies. So now for the recipe:

Easy Homemade Rusk Recipe

By: Dr Ayesha Tiwary
Ingredients:
125g Rice (any type)
Banana or other fruit purees (depending on your preference)

Method:
1. Preheat oven to 180C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
2. Place 125g rice (Any type) into a blender.
3. Blend 30secs stopping every 10 secs to push grains from the top of the lid back into the bowl.
4. Repeat Step 3 until rice grains are a fine powder.
5. Break Banana into pieces and add to the blender and mix 10 secs (I have tried this with other fruit purees instead of banana, and all have worked well)
6. Transfer mixture to a separate bowl.
7. Form mixture into 8 - 10 8-cm long log shapes and place on baking tray.
8. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Allow to cool completely before giving to your little one to enjoy (or place them in the freezer they last longer and the cold rusk can be soothing on the gums as well)
Make your own easy homemade baby rusk, and let us know if your baby loves it. Enjoy!

Publisher: Heidelberg Dentist

How you can help your teething baby

So this is the first time I’m dealing with a teething baby in a non-professional way (except for my own which I don’t remember, thank God!). Teething is never an easy road for the baby or the parents. At times we may feel very helpless as our babies go through the awful process as well as being extra sleep deprived.

When does teething usually begin?

Teething can begin at any age (some babies are even born with teeth!) However it typically begins around 4 months, with the tooth cutting through around 6 months.

Girls generally get their teeth a little earlier than boys, however every baby is different. Usually the lower incisors (or 2 mid-front teeth) pops out with the molars erupts last. This could take up to 2 years, but don’t worry our babies won’t be teething the whole entire time!

The above image is just a guide, don't worry if your baby isn't exactly following these times.

What do you expect during teething?

While every baby differs during the teething process you can expect a few fussy nights, especially as the teeth are cutting through. It’s important to try a couple different soothing options because each will work better for different babies.

Ultimately, a little trial and error will go a long way but don’t be overly concerned if you can’t completely soothe them. Their teeth are erupting after all and some pain should be expected. On the other hand, if discomfort seems excessive or goes on for a week or more, make an appointment with your doctor as it could be something else.

Every baby’s teething experience usually differs. There will be nights that the baby is squeamish, and there are some that develops low grade fever. But, there’s a lot of misconceptions on fever being associated with the teething process per se. Yes, your baby is cranky and may even have a mild fever. But if the temp. is above 38 degrees it is likely because of an infection, not teething.

What are the signs my baby is teething?

Some common symptoms your baby is teething include:
1. Baby is very irritable!
2. Puts everything to their mouth
3. Slightly puffy gums
4. So much drooling going on!
5. Biting into anything
6. No appetite
7. Rubs face most of the time.
8. Ear pulling (This is actually very clever, as they are trying to alleviate some of their pain.)
9. Flush cheeks

What can I do to help ease my baby’s pain?

Here are a few things that I have done to help soothe my son’s pain (and therefore mine!)
- The almighty Bonjella and gum massage, this usually gives him instant relief
- Chewing on a cold washcloth (sometimes I put in on my shoulder so he gets cuddles and gets to chew at the same time)
- Homemade rusks (See my recipe here)
- Homemade teething rings (see some ideas here)
- Panadol (sometimes this is what helps us all sleep)
- Breast milk/formula ice cubes or in a mesh pacifier

Just explore on what works better. Basically, a little experiment goes a long way!

If you're still worried about your baby or toddlers teeth then give us a call because our children's dentists here in Melbourne have patience in abundance to take care of your child. Plus, you'll be able to get the answers that you need in a simple and easy-to-understand manner.

Your child may also be eligible for $1000 of free dental treatment under the CDBS, let us help you find out. Visit our CBDS help page to understand more about the eligibility rules and also to help us help you find out if your little ones are eligible for free dental treatment or call us on (03) 9459 6300 or make an appointment online:

Or you can book an appointment by calling us on (03) 9459 6300 during business hours

Publisher: Heidelberg Dentist

CDBS: $1000 Dental Treatment For Children Still Available

We all know that funding for dental health in Australia leaves a lot to be desired. Successive governments have turned a blind eye to the effect our dental health has on our overall health and conveniently left the majority funding of dental treatments to private health insurers. However, the Child Dental Benefits Scheme (CDBS) is a pleasant departure from the government's usual ambivalence. Not least because it entitles your child free dental treatment up to $1000!

The Australian Dental Association has previously warned that "Australia is one of the top 10 countries for high levels of per capita consumption of soft drink.” We concur, because we keep noticing that Heidelberg Dentist's young patients' love of sugary food and drinks shows no signs of reducing.

While it is not news that excess sugar in a child's diet poses many risks to his or her dental health, it is important to understand that the CDBS's $1000 in free dental treatment can go a long way towards helping at-risk children. Treatments that such children might undergo are typically covered under the CDBS program.

Use it or lose it

Unfortunately, the CDBS does seem to be a case of "use it or lose it." With recent and current federal governments increasingly looking to cut health spending, there is no way of knowing just when they will decide to axe the CDBS again.

Don't wait for our unpredictable politicians to tell us that they will again be cutting the CDBS. These decisions are usually announced during the middle of the year on or before budget night, or at the end of the year, close to Christmas. Remember, it never pays to play chicken with politicians!

If you don't know whether your child is eligible for $1000 of free dental treatment under the CDBS, let us help you find out. Visit our CBDS help page to understand more about the eligibility rules and also to help us help you find out if your little ones are eligible for free dental treatment or call us on (03) 9459 6300 or make an appointment online:

Or you can book an appointment by calling us on (03) 9459 6300 during business hours

Publisher: Heidelberg Dentist

5 Reasons Why You Should Have A Family Dentist

Many of us don't realise that a good family dentist is just as important for your family's health and wellbeing as a good family General Practitioner or doctor. Here are the top 5 reasons you should consider when selecting your family dentist:

1. Caring For Every Member of Your Family: every good family dentist should be able to assess, advise on and treat the dental health of your entire family - from babies and children, to elderly grandparents. A good family dentist possesses an array of general dentistry skills which are required to care for all-round dental health of your family.


2. Greater Comfort Levels with Your Dentist: let's be honest, not everyone likes going to a dentist. Ths is why people seek the advice of family and friends when selecting their dentist. We know that if you are comfortable and satisfied with your dentist, then your children, spouse and extended family members are more likely to also feel at ease with that dentist. Increased comfort with your dentist is key to the entire family scheduling and attending regular dental appointments, which will minimise the chances of unforeseen and expensive dental emergencies.


3. Consistent & Accurate Diagnoses & Treatment: a good family dentist maintains accurate records of every patient visit. This enables the dentist to quickly and correctly diagnose, prevent and / or treat the dental issues of their patients. For this to happen, it is important that you and your family members regularly schedule and attend your dentist appointments.


4. Convenient Location Close to Home: location is a very important factor when choosing your family dentist. Google searches are often the first port of call and references from family and friends can also help. Having the same family dentist also allows family members to schedule appointments together, cutting down unnecessary travel and waiting times.


5. Better, More Personalised Care: As your dentists understands you and your family, they will also be able to better anticipate and help with your specific concerns, questions and quirks! 

At Heidelberg Dentist, our team prides itself on being the only dental clinic in the area that focuses on family dentistry. This is why most of our new patients come from referrals from their family and friends who are already our patients.

Why not pop in in for a quick visit of our family-friendly dental clinic. We're located at 34 Rosanna Road, Heidelberg, opposite Warringal shopping centre.

You can also call us on (03) 9459 6300 or book an appointment online for a dental treatment experience your whole family will appreciate:

Publisher: Heidelberg Dentist

Baby teeth will fall out, so should my kids take care of them?

Yes! Dental health in deciduous teeth preempts what is to come in their adult teeth. This why getting into good habits early and eliminating any decay will make for better health.

Decay in baby teeth should be fixed - especially if those teeth are still going to be there for a few years.  Most decay can be restored without anesthetic and is a simple procedure that children react positively to.

However, once the decay has extended to the pulp of the tooth, that’s when it can be really painful for children and a more difficult procedure is required, along with the potential use of anesthetics. This can sometimes be frightening for the child which can lead to a fear of dentists and further neglect of their teeth and general oral health.

We advise parents of all our little patients with baby teeth to instill good oral health habits in their children from a young age. This helps keep the little tackers happy and their parents free of unnecessary headaches.

If you want to keep your child's teeth in the best possible condition, call us on (03) 9459 6300 or book an appointment online for a great dental treatment experience:

Publisher: Heidelberg Dentist

When is the right time to start taking my child to the dentist?

A good time to start bringing children to the dentist is when they are around 3 years old.  All their baby teeth are present by around 24-30 months and this is an ideal time to get used to the dental chair.

It's a good idea to vanquish any fears your child may have about visiting a dentist. So we advise parents to be positive, and if you have any fears of their own, to try not make them obvious as children absorb such sentiments easily.

The first visit is usually just a ride in the chair and a quick count of the teeth.  Even if you just bring your children to your own appointments, it helps take the fear out of the process and they'll be sure to get a reward from us that they can show off during the "show-and-tell" session at their school,  kindergarten or play school.


Call us on (03) 9459 6300 or book an appointment online for a dental treatment experience your child will really appreciate:

Publisher: Heidelberg Dentist