The dental field is constantly changing, and we strive to stay current with the many advances that are being made or studies that are conducted. We have provided links to recent topics/discussions online that may impact your child's dental health.

(11/09/06)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently announced that it will allow bottlers to claim that fluoridated water may reduce the risk of tooth decay. "Whether you drink fluoridated water from the tap or buy it in a bottle, you are doing the right thing for your oral health." says ADA executive director James B. Bramson, D.D.S. "Thank's to the FDA's decision, bottlers can now claim what dentists have long known -that optimally fluoridated water helps prevent tooth decay."

The ADA agrees with the FDA that this health claim is not intended for use on bottled water marketed to infants for whom lesser amounts of fluoride are appropriate. The appropriate amount of fluoride is essential to help prevent tooth decay. But fluoride intake above optimal amounts creates a risk for enamel(dental) fluorosis in teeth during their development before they erupt through the gums. Read more by using the links below about how children can get the optimal amount of fluoride to protect their teeth.

For more on Infants, Formula and Fluoridation visit:
http://www.ada.org/public/topics/fluoride/infantsformula.asp

For Interim Guidance on Fluoride Intake for Infants and Young Children visit:
http://www.ada.org/prof/resources/positions/statements/fluoride_infants.asp

More Info:

How do I make my child's diet safe for his teeth?
Make sure your child has a balanced diet, including one serving each of: fruits and vegetables, breads and cereals, milk and dairy products, and meat fish and eggs. Limiting the servings of sugars and starches will also aid in protecting your child's teeth from decay. You can also ask your pediatric dentist to help you select foods that protect your children's teeth.
Click for More: Diet and dental health

How do dental sealants work?
Sealants work by filling in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. This shuts out food particles that could get caught in the teeth, causing cavities. The application is fast and comfortable and can effectively protect teeth for many years.
Click for More: Sealants

How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride?
Have your pediatric dentist evaluate the fluoride level of your child's primary source of drinking water. If your child is not getting enough fluoride internally through water (especially if the fluoride level is deficient or if your child drinks bottled water without fluoride), then your pediatric dentist may prescribe fluoride supplements.
Click for More: Enamel Fluorosis

What can I do to protect my child's teeth during sporting events?
Soft plastic mouthguards can be used to protect a child's teeth, lips, cheeks and gums from sport related injuries. A custom-fitted mouthguard developed by a pediatric dentist will protect your child from injuries to the teeth, face and even provide protection from severe injuries to the head.
Click for More: Mouth protectors

What should I do if my child falls and knocks out a permanent tooth?
The most important thing to do is to remain calm. Then find the tooth. Hold it by the crown rather than the root and try to reinsert it in the socket. If that is not possible, put the tooth in a glass of milk and take your child and the glass immediately to the pediatric dentist.
Click for More: Emergency dental care