Losing the First Tooth

If your kid is turning into a big kid, losing the first baby tooth is on the horizon.  It’s an exciting sign of growing up, but many kids still feel anxious or uncomfortable dealing with the unfamiliar sensation of a loose tooth.  Dr. Lis Bradley, DDS wants kids and parents to be prepared and understand why this pain occurs so your child can still have a positive tooth loss experience.

Before a baby tooth is lost, it begins to break free of its nerve endings.  This is the natural process that makes the tooth feel loose and wobbly at the gums, and the area will become swollen and red.  It can be painful, and for kids a great way to soothe tooth pain is applying a cold compress to the outside of the mouth in the affected area.  Children may complain that they find it hard to bite or chew with loose or missing teeth.  It’s still important to keep eating healthy while they grow new teeth so encourage soup, pureed fruits, and cooked vegetables.  A few tales of the tooth fairy can usually ease the pain a little, too!

To learn more about tooth loss and the services we provide at the practice, visit www.lisbradleydds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Lis Bradley, DDS in Brentwood, TN, call 615-778-0810.

Sealants

Dental sealants are a preventative measure used to preserve the teeth and tooth enamel, and are the best defense against early tooth decay. Lis Bradley, DDS applies sealants for pediatric patients to protect their teeth and help them get the best start for a lifetime of great dental health.

Most tooth decay in children and teenagers occurs on the chewing surfaces of molars, where the pits and grooves tend to trap food and bacteria.  Molars first come in at 5-7 years of age, and a second set comes in between the ages of 11-14. It is best to have a sealant placed when the molars first come in to ensure they are protected early. 

Sealants are applied to surfaces of these molars just like paint. The plastic resin fills any pits and grooves on the surface and then hardens.  Now the surface is protected from bits of food being stuck and bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay.  The sealant also protects tooth enamel from plaque and acids.  Sealants can effectively prevent cavities for up to ten years and can be reapplied of necessary.

To learn more about sealants and all the services provided at the practice, visit www.lisbradleydds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Lis Bradley, DDS in Brentwood, TN, call 615-778-0810.