Pediatric Dentist FAQs

When it comes to pediatric dentistry, parents often have many questions about how to best care for their child’s dental health. From the timing of the first dental visit to understanding specific treatments, it’s natural to want to know the best practices for keeping your child's teeth healthy and strong. At Charlotte Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that navigating your child’s dental care can feel overwhelming, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Our team of experienced pediatric dentists is dedicated to providing the highest level of care, while also ensuring that both you and your child feel informed and comfortable about their dental health. We believe that starting good oral hygiene habits early is key to lifelong dental health, and we are happy to answer any questions you may have about your child’s dental needs.

To help, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about pediatric dentistry from parents. Whether you’re wondering about when to schedule your child’s first dental visit or need more information about specific procedures, we’re here to guide you through every aspect of pediatric dentistry.

What is a Frenectomy?

A frenectomy is a minor surgical procedure that removes or adjusts the frenum, a small tissue fold in the mouth. It’s often done to correct tongue-tie or lip-tie, which can affect a child’s ability to eat, speak, or breastfeed. The procedure is quick, safe, and has a fast recovery.

What to do About a Wiggly Tooth?

If your child is experiencing wiggly teeth after a face injury, you should call your child’s pediatric dentist in Charlotte. There may be a need for intervention from a pediatric dentist.

If the tooth has become loose on its own, and your child is ok with leaving it alone, that is okay! Encourage your child to move the tooth with their own fingertips or tongue until it comes out on its own. Baby teeth should be removed in a calm, safe manner. Learn more about wiggly tooth removal in our recent blog.

When Can My Child Start Using Mouthwash?

Children under six years old should not use mouthwash. Children under the age of six should not rinse with mouthwash because they lack the motor functions to properly rinse their mouth and spit.

More importantly, younger children are more likely to swallow mouthwash, which is a health risk. Learn more in our blog about when children can use mouthwash.

Why Does My Kids Breath Stink?

It’s common for children to have bad breath, known medically as halitosis. If your child has halitosis, there could be a number of different causes.

If your child is suffering from chronic halitosis, then definitely make a plan to visit your local Charlotte pediatric dentist for a consultation.

Can Children Develop Gingivitis?

Though not prevalent in children, gingivitis can appear if your child has poor dental habits and doesn’t receive regular pediatric dental care.

Because teenagers have increasingly high levels of hormones, they tend to be more at risk for gingivitis and early periodontal disease than younger children. Learn more about how kids developing gingivitis in our blog.

Are My Kids At Risk for Periodontal Disease?

If periodontal disease is caught and treated early on, it can be stopped and reversed. To know if your child is in the early stages of periodontal disease, pay attention for the signs and symptoms that we cover in our blog on periodontal disease in children.

Why Are My Child’s Teeth Sensitive to Hot and Cold?

Children's teeth can be sensitive to hot and cold due to improper brushing, cavities, cracked teeth, loose fillings, or sinus infections, all of which can expose tooth nerves.

How to Get Your Kid to Brush Their Teeth

If you are struggling with getting your child to brush their teeth, there are a few things you can try. To encourage them to brush their teeth consider making it a game, brushing your teeth at the same time, or letting them pick out their toothpaste!