A complete dental care centre for the entire family
TonSOURIRE is a comprehensive dental care centre that treats every member of your family, including young children. Our ultimate goal is to ensure all of our patients enjoy excellent oral health.
We believe the success of our prevention programs lies in the collaboration between our patients and the entire dental team. Remember that preventing oral diseases ultimately begins at home with proper daily hygiene, followed up by regular examinations, cleanings and x-rays at the dentist.
Pediatric dentistry and consulting
Our first teeth normally erupt when we’re between 6 and 12 months old. The moment the tooth pierces the gum, it can become irritated and painful. Rubbing the gum with a clean finger, the back of a spoon or with a cold, damp cloth can help relieve the pain. Teething rings also work well, but teething biscuits should be avoided as they contain sugar, which can damage baby’s new teeth. Once the first teeth appear, it’s important to begin brushing them with a soft brush and fluoride-free toothpaste.
Your child’s first visit to the dentist
It’s recommended to make an appointment for your child when they turn one. At the first visit, the dentist and hygienist will establish a bond of trust with your child. We’ll examine and clean their teeth, then go over the proper brushing and flossing techniques with you.
About half of us experience some sort of fear of the dentist. That’s why it’s so important to avoid passing this on to our children. Positive attitude and age-appropriate explanations will go a long way to ensuring your child grows up to be comfortable in the dentist’s chair. A little praise before, during and after their visit works wonders!
Early childhood tooth decay
What do breast milk, infant formula, cow’s milk and fruit juices have in common? They all contain sugar.
Babies may develop cavities for different reasons:
- They go to sleep with a bottle of milk, formula or juice
- They fall asleep in their mother’s arms, with some milk still in their mouths
Tooth decay of this type can occur until the age of four. Once your child’s teeth come in, be sure to check them every month. Look closely for stains and dull white lines forming at the edge of the gums. Be watchful for dark-coloured teeth as well. Should you notice these or any other unusual signs, see your dentist right away. Tooth decay in young children should be addressed immediately. Otherwise, your child may develop an infection and become ill.
Eliminating bedtime feedings is difficult, but pays big dividends in oral health. Your child will adjust to his or her new feeding schedule over time, and may even thank you one day for their nice healthy teeth!
