Is it an Emergency if My Child’s Baby Tooth Is Knocked Out?

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Children are active, and accidents do happen. If your child knocks out a baby tooth, it can feel alarming in the moment — it can be bloody, and of course, it can be painful. The good news is that losing a baby tooth is not usually an emergency. At Pediatrics on Park in South Plainfield, NJ, we’re here for you in an emergency and to help you know when a situation can wait for a next-day (or next-few-days) appointment.

Is It Bad That My Child’s Baby Tooth Got Knocked Out?

Baby teeth are meant to fall out eventually, but if one is lost earlier than expected, it is still important to have your child’s mouth checked. Losing a tooth too soon can sometimes affect how the permanent teeth grow in, leading to problems down the road. Our team can take a look at your child’s mouth, determine if there are chips or roots remaining, and ensure they’re in the best position to heal completely and comfortably.

After an accident, it’s important to comfort your child. If there is bleeding, placing a clean cloth against the area with light pressure can help it stop.

You can also give your child something cold, like an ice pack, to ease any soreness around the face or jaw. Call us if you have any concerns.

Call Us Right Away If…

Losing a baby tooth usually isn’t an emergency. However, if your child is in pain or if the tooth broke rather than coming out in full, it is time to reach out. Our goal is always to make sure your child is as comfortable as possible and to take care of issues like swelling in the lips or gums, bleeding, or broken or damaged teeth.

Schedule a Pediatric Dental Visit in South Plainfield, NJ

If your child has lost a baby tooth in a dental accident, call Pediatrics on Park at 908-291-8600 to speak with one of our helpful team members. We will do everything we can to help you resolve the situation and set your child up for easier healing.

Fun Ways to Teach Your Child About the Dentist

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For many children, a trip to the dentist can feel very intimidating. The good news is that there are fun, straightforward ways to help your child get comfortable with the idea of a dental visit before their appointment. At Pediatrics on Park in South Plainfield, NJ, we believe dental care should be a positive experience from the very start. Here are some ideas to help your child before they come in.

Talk About Dental Appointments at Home

Most children learn best through play. You can turn everyday routines into teaching moments that make dental visits feel familiar before they happen in the office. Reading picture books about going to the dentist, role-playing with a favorite stuffed animal, or even pretending to be the dentist at home can all help build confidence. Brushing your teeth together as a family also sets a great example and helps create a sense of routine in maintaining good dental hygiene.

At Pediatrics on Park, we can also schedule a time for you and your child to visit our office and see what we do. Becoming familiar with the space can help reduce nerves.

Simple Ways To Help Your Child Ease Dental Anxiety

When children know what to expect, they often feel less anxious. Some helpful strategies to prepare your child for the dentist include:

  • Watching kid-friendly videos about dental visits
  • Coming into the office so it becomes more familiar
  • Talking about the dentist in a positive, encouraging way
  • Meeting the dentist (or orthodontist) before a visit
  • Rewarding bravery with a small treat, like watching a movie or going to the park

Schedule Your Child’s Dental Visit in South Plainfield, NJ

Call Pediatrics on Park at 908-291-8600 to schedule your child’s appointment at our office. We’re ready to help them learn that the dentist can be a fun, friendly place.

Should My Child Use Fluoride?

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Parents often ask if fluoride is safe and whether their child really needs it. The short answer is yes, when used correctly, fluoride is one of the best tools we have to prevent cavities. At Pediatrics on Park in South Plainfield, NJ, we are here to talk to you more about fluoride, so you understand why it is used and how it helps.

What Is Fluoride?

Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and makes it harder for cavities to form. It’s found in many public water supplies, toothpaste, and professional treatments. If your child’s teeth are still developing, fluoride can help repair weak spots before they turn into cavities.

When you hear about the negatives of fluoride, it’s because of an inappropriate balance of its use. Use too little fluoride and your child’s teeth may be more prone to decay. Excessive use over time can result in faint white spots on the teeth, known as fluorosis. That’s why professional guidance matters.

How To Use Fluoride Safely

The important thing to remember is that you have to use fluoride safely. Here are a few general tips:

  • Use a dab of fluoride toothpaste for children under the age of three
  • Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for kids three and older
  • Make sure your child spits out excess toothpaste instead of swallowing it
  • Ask if fluoride treatments at the office would be helpful, and get them as needed

Schedule Your Child’s Dental Appointment in South Plainfield, NJ

Have questions about fluoride or your child’s dental care needs? Call Pediatrics on Park at 908-291-8600 to schedule an appointment and get the support you need to help your child have a healthy smile.

How To Clean a Baby’s Teeth and Why the First Dental Visit Counts

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Caring for your baby’s gums and teeth in South Plainfield, NJ, should start earlier than you might expect. Knowing how to keep their gums and teeth clean and scheduling their first dental appointment at the right time can help ensure they grow up with a healthy smile. At Pediatrics on Park, we make scheduling and getting your appointment on time a breeze.

Before your first appointment, here are some things you should know about cleaning your baby’s gums and teeth.

Cleaning Your Baby’s Gums and Teeth

Good oral care begins before the first tooth appears. Wiping your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feedings helps keep their mouth clean. It also helps them learn to accept dental care, which can help when it’s time to start brushing.

When your child’s first tooth comes in, start by brushing it with a soft-bristle, baby-sized toothbrush. Use a rice-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste and brush gently twice a day, ensuring you clean all sides of each tooth that has erupted. Starting these small habits can help prevent cavities.

Why Pediatric Dental Care Matters

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. This early visit allows your dental provider to:

  • Check for early signs of decay or gum issues
  • Monitor the growth and alignment of the teeth and jaw
  • Provide information on teething, brushing, and diet
  • Allow your child to get comfortable in our dental office

Learn More About Taking Care of Your Baby’s Teeth in South Plainfield, NJ

At Pediatrics on Park, we are here to be your partner in your baby’s dental care. Call Pediatrics on Park at 908-291-8600 to schedule your baby’s first check-up and ensure they’re on the right path for a healthy smile.

What Is the Rule of 7 in Pediatric Dentistry?

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Learning about the Rule of 7 can help you prepare for a pediatric dentistry visit in South Plainfield, NJ. The Rule of 7 goes over when and why specific treatments are recommended for your child. At Pediatrics on Park, we want your child to have an excellent experience and take pride in protecting their dental health as they grow.

What Is the Rule of 7?

The Rule of 7 is a guideline used in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics. It helps determine the best timing for specific treatments.

The Rule of 7 is based on a child’s age and stage of dental development. By around the age of seven, children typically have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth, making it an ideal time to check for bite and alignment issues (a major component of the Rule of 7).

At this age, your dental team will begin to look for:

  • Orthodontic concerns
  • Common issues, such as cavities or damage to the enamel
  • Problems with the jaw
  • Issues related to acid eroding the teeth

Our team is here to provide guidance on the growth and development of your child’s teeth. We also provide necessary recommendations for preventive care and healthy habits.

Why the Rule of 7 Is Important for Dental Health

By the age of seven, the first set of adult molars usually comes in. These molars help dentists and orthodontists evaluate bite patterns and jaw growth. This early window is crucial because it allows for timely treatment planning.

Our child-friendly services and approach mean we:

  • Identify crowding or spacing issues
  • Check for crossbites, overbites, or underbites
  • Use tools and techniques suited for children
  • Create a plan that supports long-term oral health

Learn More About the Rule of 7 in South Plainfield, NJ

The Rule of 7 is there to protect your child’s health, and our team is ready to support you in this effort. Call Pediatrics on Park at 908-291-8600 to schedule an appointment today.

What Is Pediatric Dentistry, and Why Is It a Specialty?

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Going to the dentist can feel different for children than it does for adults, and it can result in anxiety and upset. Getting an appointment with pediatric dentistry in South Plainfield, NJ, gives your child care that is designed specifically for their age and potential dental health concerns. At Pediatrics on Park, we make sure every visit feels comfortable, positive, and fun for your little one.

What Is Pediatric Dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry is a dental specialty that focuses only on children. Our team sees children and young adults from the time they’re infants through their teens. Pediatric dental providers must complete additional training to provide the right care for small mouths and developing smiles.

What this means is that your child gets dental visits that:

  • Focus on growth and development
  • Are gentle and age-appropriate
  • Are designed to ease anxiety and build trust
  • Are centered on dental issue prevention and education

You can see more about the specific services we offer on our pediatrics page.

Why Pediatric Dentistry Matters for Your Child

Choosing a pediatric dental provider means your child gets care from someone who understands their unique dental needs. Having a pediatric provider can help prevent problems early and make dental visits easier for everyone involved. Our kid-friendly approach includes:

  • Spotting and treating issues early
  • Using tools sized for children
  • Creating a welcoming, playful environment
  • Teaching healthy habits that last a lifetime

Schedule an Appointment for Pediatric Dentistry in South Plainfield, NJ

Our staff is ready to educate you and help your child develop a happy, healthy smile. Call Pediatrics on Park at 908-291-8600 to schedule your child’s appointment today

Dental Crowns for Children: When Are They the Best Option?

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Most dental crowns go on adult teeth. There are times, however, when our pediatric dentist in South Plainfield, NJ, requires a more comprehensive restoration solution for young teeth. Sometimes it is necessary to protect a primary tooth until it is ready to come out on its own, and a dental crown is the best answer.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged tooth to restore its function and appearance. The crown protects the natural tooth root and allows it to continue functioning. It is often the alternative to extracting the tooth entirely.

Why Consider Dental Crowns for Baby Teeth?

Baby or primary teeth are going to fall out anyway, so why consider a dental crown? To understand, you have to remember the ultimate purpose of a baby tooth. Its main job is to hold a place for a permanent tooth.

The timeline for replacing baby teeth with permanent ones is very sensitive. If trauma or decay takes a baby tooth too soon, it can screw up the natural alignment of the permanent teeth. That is something our pediatric dentist in South Plainfield, NJ, will always try to avoid. A crown protects that spot so that the permanent tooth can come in normally.

The Danger of Decay

Dental decay in one tooth puts all your child’s baby teeth at risk, too. Once the decay starts, it can spread quickly because baby teeth are weaker than permanent teeth.

If there is significant decay, the dentist may decide that a cap will provide the most protection for all the teeth. So, the crown not only saves the natural tooth but also prevents decay from spreading to other teeth.

A dental crown is typically a last resort to save a baby tooth, but a valuable one. Schedule an appointment today with our pediatric dentist in South Plainfield, NJ, for a comprehensive check-up to ensure your child’s optimal oral health.

Infant’s First Appointment: FAQ for Parents

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A baby’s first year of life is filled with important milestones, and one of those should be their first dental visit. At Pediatrics on Park in South Plainfield, NJ, we take your child’s dental health seriously from the very beginning.

Do Infants Need Dental Care?

We recommend scheduling your baby’s first dental appointment by their first birthday or, if you see a tooth erupt sooner, within six months of that tooth appearing.

Remember, even before teeth appear, the gums may need care. Parents can help take care of their gums by wiping them daily with a soft cloth. This helps remove unwanted bacteria. Then, as the teeth start to emerge, our pediatric dentist can help check for appropriate development and address any signs of dental issues early on.

What Should You Know About Your Child’s First Dental Appointment?

The first appointment is designed to prevent dental issues and ensure your child’s comfort in a dental office. During the visit, our team will gently examine your baby’s mouth, gums, and any erupted teeth. We’ll review the steps for caring for your child’s teeth and mouth, discussing essential factors such as feeding habits, teething, and the importance of fluoride. This is also a good time to ask any questions you have about your child’s dental care needs.

We keep first-time appointments short and sweet, so you and your baby can be at ease. Our primary goal is to give you a good experience that builds trust and sets the stage for your baby’s healthy smile.

Schedule Your Infant’s First Dental Appointment in South Plainfield, NJ

At Pediatrics on Park in South Plainfield, NJ, we are excited to welcome you to our office. Contact us today at 908-291-8600 to schedule your baby’s first appointment.

Fear of Dentistry: Helping Kids Overcome the Office Visit

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It’s common for children to feel nervous about going to the dentist, especially during early visits. While very young children, like infants, may not know what to expect or show fear, older children may begin to have anxiety that makes it difficult to get them the dental care they need. At Pediatrics on Park in South Plainfield, NJ, we take special care to make your child’s experience as positive and comfortable as possible.

Why Do Children Fear the Dentist?

Dental anxiety can come from several places, such as parents’ fears, television, or even storybooks. Some children are scared of unfamiliar tools and sounds. Others might worry about pain, especially when they had a bad experience in the past.

What Are Some Ways To Prevent a Fear of the Dentist?

Parents can help their children by using a calm, supportive approach. Start early by bringing your child in for regular checkups, which will let them get used to the office

When talking about the dentist, use positive language. Avoid saying things like, “it won’t hurt” or “you’ll need a shot.” These kinds of phrases can give children the expectation that there will be pain.

And, you can help by reading positive stories about dentists to your children. Watching age-appropriate videos about visiting the dentist may also work.

My Child Is Already Scared. Now What?

If your child is already fearful of the dentist, now is the time to take action. Call us at our office to schedule an appointment time to come in, and we can take things slow. From taking a few minutes to show your child around the office to introducing the people who will be there to help them during an appointment, transparency and support can go a long way to help.

Contact Pediatrics on Park To Schedule a Supportive Appointment in South Plainfield, NJ

We know that anxiety about going to the dentist can feel overwhelming to children, but we’re here to help your child feel safe and comfortable during any dental procedure. To schedule, reach out to our team at Pediatrics on Park at 908-291-8600.

What To Expect In Our Office

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At Pediatrics on Park in South Plainfield, NJ, we know that visiting the dentist can be a new experience, and it may be one that comes with anxiety and fear. That’s why we do everything we can to make your child’s visit as smooth and comfortable as possible.

Can Parents Come to Appointments?

You’re an important part of your child’s care team. From the moment you walk through the door, we encourage you to ask questions, share concerns, and stay involved during your child’s appointment. Whether it’s your child’s very first visit or they’re getting a cavity filled, we welcome parents to join us during the appointment.

Will My Child Be Comfortable?

Our pediatric dental team is trained to work with children of all ages. Children love our bright blue office design, and we do everything we can to keep them comfortable throughout their appointments. From using the latest technology to make X-rays simpler to having different flavors of fluoride available, we put kids’ needs first.

Our Office Keeps Your Child’s Needs in Mind

The environment at Pediatrics on Park is designed to feel friendly and familiar, not cold or clinical. We offer kid-friendly touches throughout the office, like funny sunglasses and colorful furniture, to help children relax while they’re with us. For younger children, we aim to keep appointments short. For older kids, we are happy to explain what we’re doing to alleviate their concerns.

Schedule Your Dental Appointment in South Plainfield, NJ

We’re not just here to clean teeth, but also to build trust and help you manage your child’s dental health care. If you have questions before your visit, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Pediatrics on Park. Call us today at 908-291-8600.