Pediatric Dentistry FAQ's

Pediatric dental offices are designed to be colorful, fun, and child-friendly. It is essential that children feel safe and comfortable during their visits to avoid developing dental anxiety later in life.
Pediatric dentists focus on several aspects of oral care:
● PreventionTooth decay is one of the most common childhood conditions, but it is nearly 100% preventable. Along with offering home care tips, pediatric dentists apply fluoride treatments and dental sealants to protect tooth enamel and reduce cavity risk.
● Early DetectionPediatric dentists use exams, X-rays, and computer modeling to identify potential dental problems early. This includes issues like bad bites (malocclusion), teeth grinding (bruxism), and jaw abnormalities. Addressing these issues early can lead to better outcomes.
● TreatmentPediatric dentists provide a variety of treatments, including fluoride and sealant applications, pulp therapy, and trauma care. If a primary tooth is lost prematurely, space maintainers may be used to prevent misalignment.
● EducationEducating both children and parents is a vital part of pediatric dentistry. The dentist can help children understand the importance of oral care and provide parents with guidance on topics like toothpaste selection, diet, and how to stop thumb-sucking.
● UpdatesPediatric dentists stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in dentistry. For example, new research shows that Xylitol, a naturally occurring sugar substitute, can help protect young teeth from cavities and harmful bacteria. Regular dental visits ensure that children benefit from the latest information and techniques.
If you have any questions about when to schedule your child’s first dental visit, don’t hesitate to contact our office.

Preventive care goes beyond brushing and flossing. Here are key ways to protect your child’s smile:
1. Healthy DietLimit sugary snacks and drinks, which fuel cavity-causing bacteria. Opt for tooth-friendly foods like fresh fruits, veggies, and dairy products.
2. Smart Oral HabitsPacifiers and thumb-sucking can cause misalignment if used too long. If needed, choose an orthodontic pacifier, and ask your dentist for tips on stopping these habits.
3. Proper Hygiene PracticesAvoid sharing utensils or cleaning pacifiers with your mouth to reduce the transfer of cavity-causing bacteria. Always rinse pacifiers and toys with warm water.
4. Sippy Cup UseSippy cups with sugary drinks can expose teeth to constant acid attacks. Transition to a regular cup around 12-14 months to prevent tooth decay.
5. Brushing & FlossingBrush twice daily with a soft-bristled brush and ADA-approved toothpaste.
Use a smear of non-fluoridated toothpaste for babies and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for kids over two.
Parents should assist with brushing until around age seven.
Floss daily where teeth touch to prevent cavities between teeth.
6. Fluoride ProtectionFluoride strengthens enamel and prevents cavities, but too much can cause fluorosis. Your dentist can assess your child’s fluoride intake and recommend supplements if needed.
By combining professional dental care with healthy at-home habits, you can set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. If you have any questions, your pediatric dentist is here to help!

Teeth generally emerge in pairs, starting at the front of the mouth. Girls’ teeth often erupt earlier than boys’. Lower teeth often come in before upper teeth.
● Central incisors (front teeth): 6–12 months (lost at 6–7 years)● Lateral incisors: 9–16 months (lost at 7–8 years)● First molars: 13–19 months (lost at 9–11 years)● Canines (cuspids): 16–23 months (lost at 10–12 years)● Second molars: 23–33 months (lost at 10–12 years)
Teething can cause discomfort, but cool gauze, teething rings, and gentle gum massages can help soothe your child.

Primary teeth are crucial for speech, chewing, and maintaining space for permanent teeth. Proper care is essential to ensure these teeth stay healthy.
Here are some tips to reduce the risk of early childhood cavities:
● Brush Twice Daily: The AAPD recommends using a pea-sized amount of ADA-approved (non-fluoridated) toothpaste for children under two and fluoridated toothpaste for children over two. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush appropriate for infants.
● Start Flossing: Floss between the child’s teeth once two teeth are adjacent. Ask your pediatric dentist for a demonstration on how to floss properly.
● Provide a Balanced Diet: Limit sugary and starchy foods that feed harmful oral bacteria. A balanced diet helps protect tooth enamel.
● Set a Good Example: Children are more likely to develop good oral habits if they see parents brushing and flossing. Age-appropriate books can help reinforce the importance of oral care.
● Visit the Dentist: Regular dental checkups help monitor development, ensure cleanings, apply fluoride, and seal molars. Regular visits can help prevent future dental issues.
If you have questions or concerns about your child's teeth, contact your pediatric dentist for guidance.

Primary teeth, also known as "baby teeth" or "deciduous teeth," begin to form beneath the gums during the second trimester of pregnancy. These teeth typically start emerging above the gums between six months and one year after birth. By the time they reach preschool age, children usually have a full set of 20 primary teeth, including four molars on each arch.

A common misconception is that primary teeth don’t matter because they are eventually replaced by permanent teeth. However, the American Dental Association (ADA) stresses their importance and recommends scheduling a "baby checkup" with a pediatric dentist within six months of the first tooth emerging.

While teething can be painful, there are ways to soothe tender gums, such as biting on chewing rings, wet gauze pads, or clean fingers. Although primary teeth erupt gradually, starting at the front of the mouth, most three-year-olds have a full set. The main functions of primary teeth include:
● Speech Development: Clear speech is vital for a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Primary teeth help with proper syllable pronunciation and prevent the tongue from wandering while speaking.
● Eating and Nutrition: Healthy primary teeth are essential for chewing and proper nutrition. Children with decayed or poorly formed primary teeth may struggle with chewing, potentially leading to malnutrition or dietary deficiencies.
● Self-Confidence: Young children can be sensitive about their appearance, and primary teeth play a role in how they feel about their smiles. Good oral care promotes confidence by preventing bad breath and supporting healthy social interactions.
● Straighter Smiles: Primary teeth help maintain space for adult teeth to emerge correctly. They guide the alignment of permanent teeth and support jaw development. If primary teeth are lost prematurely, remaining teeth may shift, causing misalignment. Pediatric dentists may recommend space-maintaining devices to prevent this.
● Good Oral Health: Decayed primary teeth can lead to childhood periodontal disease, where bacteria damage gums, ligaments, and even bone. Untreated decay can cause primary teeth to fall out early, leading to problems with emerging permanent teeth. Consistent oral care and gently cleaning infant gums after meals can help prevent this.
If you have concerns or questions about your child’s primary teeth, don’t hesitate to contact your pediatric dentist.

First, the pediatric dentist creates a "dental home" for the child, ensuring that if an emergency arises, parents can bring their child to a familiar and comfortable setting.

Second, the pediatric dentist maintains detailed records of the child’s dental health and jaw development. Since dental issues typically don’t develop suddenly, understanding the child's history helps in preventing potential problems.

Third, the pediatric dentist provides valuable education for both parents and children. This may include introducing treatments like sealants, fluoride supplements, or xylitol, or suggesting changes in diet or habits, such as reducing sugar intake or transitioning from a sippy cup.

Finally, dental X-rays help detect small cavities in primary (baby) teeth that may not be causing pain but can lead to larger issues, such as tooth decay or periodontal disease. X-rays are used only when the pediatric dentist suspects cavities or orthodontic concerns.

A child’s dental health can change quickly. Even if their teeth were healthy just six months ago, changes in diet or habits (like thumb sucking) can make them prone to decay or misalignment.

In addition to visual exams, the pediatric dentist performs thorough cleanings at every visit. These cleanings remove plaque and debris from hard-to-reach areas, providing an extra layer of protection beyond regular home care.

The pediatric dentist also monitors fluoride levels during routine visits. After cleaning, a fluoride gel or varnish may be applied to remineralize teeth and protect enamel from acid attacks. Children in areas without fluoridated water may also receive take-home fluoride supplements.

Additionally, dental sealants may be applied to the back teeth (molars) to create a protective barrier against debris, bacteria, and acid.

If you have any questions or concerns about scheduling your child’s dental checkups, please reach out to your pediatric dentist.

Pediatric dental offices are designed to be welcoming, with colorful spaces and engaging activities to make children feel at ease. Here’s how you can help make the first visit smooth and stress-free:
● Bring another adult – If your child becomes fussy, an extra pair of hands can help while you focus on the dentist’s advice.
● Avoid bringing siblings – This keeps the visit calm and allows for undivided attention.
● Use positive language – Avoid words like “drill” or “shot.” Instead, say, “The dentist will help keep your teeth strong and healthy.”
● Read books about the dentist – Stories like The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist or Elmo Visits the Dentist can make the experience fun.

A baby is at risk for tooth decay as soon as the first tooth appears. During the first visit, the pediatric dentist will guide parents in creating a preventive strategy to protect the teeth and demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques for infants.

Infants who drink breast milk, formula, juice, soda, or sweetened water from a bottle or sippy cup are at high risk for early childhood cavities (caries). To prevent this, the pediatric dentist advises against filling bottles with sugary fluids, dipping pacifiers in honey, and sharing spoons or cleaning pacifiers in their mouths, which can transfer bacteria.

The pediatric dentist will also assess the infant's fluoride intake. Excessive fluoride between ages one and four can lead to fluorosis, while too little fluoride can weaken tooth enamel, making it more vulnerable to decay.

Pediatric dental offices are designed to be fun and engaging, with staff trained to communicate effectively with infants and young children. The first dental visit is more about education and prevention than treatment.
During the first visit, the pediatric dentist will guide parents on establishing a solid oral care routine, ask about the child’s oral habits, and examine the child’s emerging teeth. The dentist and parent will sit knee-to-knee during the exam, allowing the child to always see the parent. If the infant's teeth are stained, the dentist may clean them, and often, a topical fluoride treatment will be applied afterward.

The pediatric dentist will inquire about the child’s current oral care, diet, overall health, oral habits, and fluoride intake.

Based on the answers, the pediatric dentist will provide guidance on:● Preventing accidents.● Adding xylitol and fluoride to the child’s diet.● Choosing an ADA-approved, non-fluoridated toothpaste for the child.● Selecting the right toothbrush.● Picking an orthodontically correct pacifier.● Proper head positioning during tooth brushing.● Transitioning from a sippy cup to adult-sized glasses (12-14 months).● Reducing fuss during oral care routines.● Establishing a drink-free bedtime routine.● Maintaining healthy dietary habits.● Minimizing the risk of tooth decay.● Reducing sugar and carbohydrate intake.● Understanding teething and developmental milestones.

For any questions or concerns about your child’s first oral checkup, don't hesitate to ask your pediatric dentist.

Maternal oral bacteria can transfer to the infant, leading to potential health issues. To prevent complications, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends regular dental checkups during pregnancy for prevention, treatment, and oral health counseling.

● Brush and floss: Use ADA-approved, fluoridated toothpaste twice a day and floss daily to eliminate harmful bacteria.
● Chew gum: Chewing xylitol gum 3-5 times a day may help reduce the risk of cavities in infants and toddlers.
● Diet: Maintain a balanced diet and reduce sugary or starchy foods that promote bacteria growth and tooth decay.
● Regular dental visits: Regular checkups allow the dentist to monitor oral health and provide strategies to reduce bacteria.

Cavity-causing bacteria can be transferred from parents to infants through shared utensils or cleaning pacifiers in the mouth. To prevent this, parents should:
● Brush: Gently clean the infant’s gums with a damp cloth after feedings, and brush teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush using non-fluoridated toothpaste for children under two.
● Floss: Once two teeth emerge, floss between them to prevent cavities.
● Pacifiers: Choose orthodontically correct pacifiers and avoid dipping them in sugary liquids like honey.
● Drinking glasses: Offer only water in sippy cups and stop using them after the baby turns one to avoid prolonged exposure to sugary liquids.
● Pediatric dentist visits: Schedule the baby’s first visit to the pediatric dentist around their first birthday to monitor oral development and receive care tips.
● Wipe gums: After each feeding, use a damp cloth to wipe the baby’s gums and reduce bacteria.

For more information or questions about perinatal or infant oral care, contact your pediatric dentist.

Pediatric dental offices are designed to be welcoming, with colorful spaces and engaging activities to make children feel at ease. Here’s how you can help make the first visit smooth and stress-free:
● Bring another adult – If your child becomes fussy, an extra pair of hands can help while you focus on the dentist’s advice.
● Avoid bringing siblings – This keeps the visit calm and allows for undivided attention.
● Use positive language – Avoid words like “drill” or “shot.” Instead, say, “The dentist will help keep your teeth strong and healthy.”
● Read books about the dentist – Stories like The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist or Elmo Visits the Dentist can make the experience fun.

A baby is at risk for tooth decay as soon as the first tooth appears. During the first visit, the pediatric dentist will guide parents in creating a preventive strategy to protect the teeth and demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques for infants.

Infants who drink breast milk, formula, juice, soda, or sweetened water from a bottle or sippy cup are at high risk for early childhood cavities (caries). To prevent this, the pediatric dentist advises against filling bottles with sugary fluids, dipping pacifiers in honey, and sharing spoons or cleaning pacifiers in their mouths, which can transfer bacteria.

The pediatric dentist will also assess the infant's fluoride intake. Excessive fluoride between ages one and four can lead to fluorosis, while too little fluoride can weaken tooth enamel, making it more vulnerable to decay.

Pediatric dental offices are designed to be fun and engaging, with staff trained to communicate effectively with infants and young children. The first dental visit is more about education and prevention than treatment.
During the first visit, the pediatric dentist will guide parents on establishing a solid oral care routine, ask about the child’s oral habits, and examine the child’s emerging teeth. The dentist and parent will sit knee-to-knee during the exam, allowing the child to always see the parent. If the infant's teeth are stained, the dentist may clean them, and often, a topical fluoride treatment will be applied afterward.

The pediatric dentist will inquire about the child’s current oral care, diet, overall health, oral habits, and fluoride intake.

Based on the answers, the pediatric dentist will provide guidance on:● Preventing accidents.● Adding xylitol and fluoride to the child’s diet.● Choosing an ADA-approved, non-fluoridated toothpaste for the child.● Selecting the right toothbrush.● Picking an orthodontically correct pacifier.● Proper head positioning during tooth brushing.● Transitioning from a sippy cup to adult-sized glasses (12-14 months).● Reducing fuss during oral care routines.● Establishing a drink-free bedtime routine.● Maintaining healthy dietary habits.● Minimizing the risk of tooth decay.● Reducing sugar and carbohydrate intake.● Understanding teething and developmental milestones.

For any questions or concerns about your child’s first oral checkup, don't hesitate to ask your pediatric dentist.

Long-term pacifier or thumb-sucking can cause:
● Jaw misalignment – Prolonged sucking can shift the developing jaw out of alignment.
● Tooth decay – Dipping pacifiers in honey or other sugary substances promotes cavities.
● Narrowed palate – The roof of the mouth may become misshapen over time.
● Slanted teeth – Teeth can become misaligned, increasing the need for orthodontic treatment.
● Mouth sores – Aggressive sucking can lead to ulcers or irritation.

● Opt for a one-piece design to reduce choking risks.● Choose an orthodontic pacifier that supports natural oral development.● Avoid dipping it in sugary substances like honey.● Rinse with water instead of putting it in your mouth to prevent bacterial transfer.

Most children outgrow these habits on their own, but if not, gentle intervention can help:
● Ask the pediatric dentist to talk to your child about quitting.● Use a reward system to encourage positive behavior.● Wrap thumbs in mittens or soft cloth at night.● Consider a dental appliance designed to prevent sucking.
Breaking a habit takes time, patience, and encouragement. If needed, your pediatric dentist can offer additional strategies!

A child should start using a sippy cup as soon as they can grasp it and transition to a regular cup by their first birthday. Early cavity prevention is crucial, as teeth become vulnerable to decay as soon as they emerge.

Guidelines for Sippy Cup Use:
● Fill sippy cups with water instead of sugary drinks.● Remove the cup when the child is done drinking.● Never let a child take a sippy cup to bed (unless it’s water).● Avoid using sippy cups to soothe a child (especially with sugary drinks).● Rinse the cup regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.● If sugary drinks are given, serve them at mealtime when saliva helps wash away sugars.

Sippy cups don’t directly cause cavities, but frequent exposure to sugary liquids does. Drinks like juice, formula, breast milk, and sweetened water leave sugar residue on teeth, which feeds oral bacteria. These bacteria produce acid that erodes enamel, increasing the risk of decay. Cavities can also form between teeth, making them difficult to detect without a dental checkup.

Not all sippy cups are created equal. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends:
● Avoiding “no-spill” valves – These limit liquid flow, causing sugars to linger in the mouth longer.● Using cups with spouts – A snap-on or screw-on lid with a spout encourages proper drinking habits.● Opting for two handles – This helps toddlers develop the coordination needed for regular cups.

By choosing the right cup and limiting sugary drinks, parents can help protect their child’s smile from cavities. If you have concerns about your child’s oral health, schedule a visit with a pediatric dentist.

Most snacks contain some form of sugar, not just candy or chocolate. Even fruit snacks, granola bars, and juice can fuel harmful bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria feed on leftover food particles and produce acid that erodes enamel, leading to cavities and gum disease.

If left untreated, tooth decay can progress to the gums and jawbone, eventually causing premature tooth loss and complications for incoming adult teeth.

Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential, but maintaining healthy eating habits at home is just as important in preventing tooth decay.

To promote oral health, follow these dietary guidelines:
● Choose tooth-friendly snacks – Swap sugary treats for carrot sticks, low-fat yogurt, or cottage cheese.
● Limit frequent snacking – Constant snacking keeps sugar on teeth longer, increasing the risk of cavities.
● Opt for quick-eating snacks – Avoid mints and hard candies that linger in the mouth. Choose sugar-free alternatives when possible.
● Consider fluoride supplements – If your local water supply lacks fluoride, your pediatric dentist may recommend a supplement to strengthen enamel.

Carbohydrates like pretzels, chips, and peanut butter sandwiches break down into sugar, which can fuel bacteria. Instead of serving them as snacks, offer them at mealtimes when saliva production is higher to help wash away food particles.
● Encourage water over sugary drinks – Serve water with meals instead of soda or juice to rinse away food debris.
● Avoid sticky foods – Gummy snacks and sticky candies cling to teeth, making them harder to clean, especially for young children.

By making smart food choices and encouraging good oral hygiene habits, parents can help their children maintain healthy smiles for life.

Cavities develop when children’s teeth are regularly exposed to sugary foods. After eating, sugars and carbohydrates (such as those in white bread) stick to the teeth, creating a sticky film called plaque. Bacteria in this plaque feed on the sugar particles and release acid, which gradually weakens tooth enamel. If not addressed, the acid can penetrate the enamel, causing further damage to the tooth.

While primary (baby) teeth will eventually be lost, they play important roles in speech, eating, and jaw development, so they should be protected. Brushing and flossing twice a day (ideally more) and visiting the pediatric dentist for regular cleanings are key to preventing cavities. Additionally, pediatric dentists may apply dental sealants or offer fluoride treatments to further protect the teeth.

Large cavities can cause severe pain, but smaller cavities may not cause noticeable symptoms, making them harder to detect. Some cavities may even form between the teeth, out of sight from the naked eye. Dental X-rays and professional examinations help identify cavities early, allowing for treatment before they worsen.

Common symptoms of cavities include:● Sensitivity to hot or cold foods.● Waking up at night and crying.● Tooth pain or ache.● Sensitivity to spicy foods.● Toothache.

If your child experiences any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit the pediatric dentist. Ignoring these signs can lead to worsening pain and potentially damage the tooth.

Regular dental visits are crucial, but here are some guidelines for preventing cavities at home:
● Monitor DietSugary and starchy snacks contribute to cavity formation. Try swapping out sugary treats for healthier options like fruits and vegetables. Also, replace sugary drinks like soda with water.
● Limit SnacksFrequent snacking exposes teeth to sugar throughout the day. Try to reserve sugary snacks for mealtime when saliva production is higher, and always encourage drinking water to help cleanse the teeth.
● Stop Using the Sippy CupUsing a sippy cup beyond the recommended age (around twelve months) can lead to "baby bottle tooth decay," as sugary liquids continually coat the teeth.
● Avoid Sticky FoodsSticky treats, like toffee, can stick to the teeth and quickly form plaque, making them difficult to remove.
● Rinse the PacifierOral bacteria can be passed from parents to babies via pacifiers. Rinse the pacifier with water instead of cleaning it by sucking on it to prevent contamination.
● Avoid Drinks at BedtimePutting your child to bed with a bottle or sippy cup filled with milk, formula, juice, or sweetened water can cause cavities as these liquids sit on the teeth all night. Always brush the teeth after the last drink before bedtime.
● Don’t Sweeten the PacifierNever dip a pacifier in honey or sugar. Instead, soothe your child with a toy, blanket, or a comforting cuddle.
● Brush and FlossParents should brush and floss their child’s teeth twice a day until the child is at least seven years old, as younger children may not be able to clean all areas of the mouth effectively.
● Check Fluoride LevelsFluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities, but too much or too little can be harmful. Ask the pediatric dentist to assess your child’s fluoride needs.
● Keep Dental AppointmentsThe first dental visit should occur by your child’s first birthday, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). Regular check-ups are essential for maintaining healthy teeth.
By following these steps and staying on top of regular dental visits, you can help your child avoid cavities and enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles!

The health of primary (baby) teeth is often overlooked, but they play a vital role in speech, chewing, jaw development, and the proper alignment of adult teeth. Brushing these teeth helps prevent bad breath, tooth decay, and removes plaque bacteria linked to childhood periodontal disease.

Not all toothpastes are the same. Most contain abrasives to remove stains, soapy ingredients to eliminate plaque, and fluoride to strengthen enamel, along with a pleasant flavor.

The main differences between brands include paste thickness, fluoride content, and flavor. While fluoride strengthens enamel and fights plaque, too much can cause dental fluorosis, especially in children ages 1-4. It's important to monitor fluoride levels carefully during this period.

Adult toothpaste and non-ADA approved brands often contain harsher abrasives that can wear down enamel and damage primary teeth. Some also contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which can trigger painful mouth ulcers in some children.

When selecting a toothpaste and creating an oral care plan, the child’s age is the most important factor to consider. Oral care should start before the first tooth appears. Gently rub a clean, cool cloth along the gums after feeding to remove food particles and bacteria.

Before age two, as more teeth emerge, begin brushing with fluoride-free “baby” toothpaste. Brush gently twice a day. Flavor isn’t a priority, so let the child help choose a flavor they like.

By age three, switch to an ADA-approved toothpaste with fluoride. Look for the ADA logo on the packaging. Use a small, pea-sized amount of toothpaste and encourage the child to spit out the excess. It may take time for the child to get used to spitting, especially if they enjoy the flavor. Don’t worry if they swallow small amounts—this is common and will improve with practice.

Dental fluorosis is not a concern for children over eight, but always choose an ADA-approved toothpaste for kids of any age.

If you need help choosing the right toothpaste for your child, consult with your pediatric dentist for recommendations.

Unlicensed piercing parlors are a major concern, as they can spread infections like tetanus, tuberculosis, and hepatitis. Even when performed in licensed facilities, tongue piercings can cause a range of painful and serious complications, including:
● Bacterial infections● Blood clots and poisoning● Brain abscesses● Chronic pain● Nerve damage (trigeminal neuralgia)● Cracked or fractured teeth● Heart infections● Allergic reactions to metal● Gum recession and periodontal disease● Speech difficulties● Scarring

The piercing process involves clamping the tongue, inserting a hollow metal needle through it, and securing a metal bar with screw-on balls. Afterward, many people experience severe pain and swelling for several days. Since the mouth naturally contains large amounts of bacteria, the new piercing is especially vulnerable to infection. Additionally, the body may respond by increasing saliva production, making speaking and eating more difficult.

Over time, tongue piercings can cause significant dental and oral health problems. The metal balls frequently rub against teeth, leading to enamel wear, cavities, and gum disease. Soft tissue irritation is also common as the piercing continuously presses against the tongue and gums.

If the bar is too long, it may get caught on the teeth or tongue, increasing the risk of painful injuries. In some cases, a tongue bar can be accidentally ripped out, causing severe damage that may be difficult to repair.

Due to the numerous risks involved, the American Dental Association (ADA) and pediatric dentists strongly advise against any type of oral piercing. If you have concerns about tongue piercings and their impact on oral health, speak with a dental professional for guidance.

No. Smokeless tobacco exposes the mouth to high concentrations of harmful chemicals and is even more addictive than cigarettes. Just one pinch of chewing tobacco delivers as much nicotine as 60 cigarettes. It also increases the risk of developing leukoplakia, precancerous white patches that can lead to oral cancer.

Oral cancer may not be noticeable until it reaches advanced stages. Parents should watch for:
● Sores that don’t heal.● Red or white patches on the lips, tongue, or cheeks.● Numbness or tenderness.● Difficulty moving the jaw.● Changes in how teeth fit together.

Early detection is key to successful treatment and avoiding disfiguring surgery.

Parents can take steps to discourage tobacco use:
● Educate Early: Talk to your child about the dangers of tobacco or have their dentist discuss it with them.
● Lead by Example: Children of non-smokers are far less likely to start using tobacco.
● Stay Vigilant: Monitor your child’s habits and, if needed, request tobacco screenings during dental visits.

If you have concerns about tobacco use and its impact on oral health, contact your pediatric dentist for guidance.