Pediatric Dentist Chicago

Ways to get your kids to brush their teeth

2012-02-21T12:29:00.000-08:00

Brushing and Flossing Your Child's Teeth

Brushing
Most children spend less than a minute brushing their teeth. Oral health care professionals recommend, however, that they brush for two to three minutes. If it helps, try putting a timer in the bathroom or giving your child a toothbrush with a timer built in. This way, your child will know how long to brush. Or, have them brush for the length of a song, which is generally two to three minutes.

It's especially important that your child brush his or her teeth before going to bed at night. The eight to 10 hours your child is asleep gives bacteria lots of time to feast on food particles left on the teeth and produce enamel-eating acid. The flow of saliva in the mouth also is lower at night so food is less likely to be washed off the teeth.

The technique for brushing your child's teeth is the same whether you do it or he or she does it. If your child is too young to do it him or herself, it may be easiest to cradle his or her head in your one arm while keeping your other hand free to brush.

Pediatric Dentist Chicago

Orthodontist Chicago

To brush your child's teeth:

Place the toothbrush alongside the teeth. The bristles should be at a 45-degree angle to the gum line.
Gently move the brush in a small circular motion cleaning one tooth at time. Be sure to have a system so you don't miss any teeth. For instance, you might start with the bottom back tooth and work your way to the front, then repeat on the opposite side of the mouth before switching to the top teeth.
Brush across the chewing surfaces, making sure the bristles get into the grooves and crevices. Clean the side of the teeth that face the tongue using the same circular motion. Again, start in the back and work your way forward. Remember to brush the inside of the top teeth, too.
Brush your child's tongue lightly to remove bacteria and keep breath smelling good.
Have your child rinse his or her mouth with water.

Most children miss the molars and the tongue sides of the bottom teeth when brushing. Be sure to pay special attention to these areas.

Flossing
Once any two of your child's teeth touch each other, it's time to start flossing. Flossing helps prevent cavities by removing plaque and food particles caught between teeth. It should be an important part of your child's dental routine.

Your child should be able to floss his or her own teeth by the time he or she is 9 years old. To floss younger children's teeth, place them in your lap facing you. The technique is the same, no matter who is doing it. To floss your child's teeth:

Take about 18 inches of dental floss and wrap one end around each of your middle fingers.
Using your thumbs and index fingers as guides, gently slide the floss between two teeth, using a saw-like motion.
Once at the gum line, pull both ends of the floss in the same direction to form a C shape against one tooth. Pull the floss tightly and move it up and down against one tooth.
Pull the floss against the other tooth and repeat the motion.
Repeat this for all of the teeth. Be sure to floss both sides of the teeth farthest back in the mouth.

Remember, good oral hygiene is an important part of your child's overall health. Your child can get off to a good start by:

Seeing a dentist regularly
Brushing twice a day and flossing at night before bedtime at home
Getting the right amount of fluoride
Eating a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables

Breastfeeding Vs Bottle Feeding

2012-01-20T12:00:00.000-08:00

From Dr. Kevin Boyd, Pediatric Dentist Chicago
in response to a patient's inquiry about breastfeeding and bottle feeding for children.
Pediatric Dentist Chicago

Breastfeeding will be best for your new baby and I encourage you to do this if you are able; if not, please consider minimizing the transition from the bottle, to cup feeding....you can do this very early....and dad can help.

If you plan to use a bottle, then certainly the Medela Calma seems to be the least harmful to normal growth and development of your baby's teeth jaws and face. Please also consider pumping your own breastmilk in lieu of commercial formulas for as long as possible...none of them even come close to the superior quality of your own milk.

And finally, Dr.'s Carrie Gosch and Deanna Monroe are 2 of the finest pediatricians in Chicago and many of my patients, and my own daughters, see them or one of their associates; please call our Pediatric Dental Office to get their number to schedule a pre-delivery appointment with them if you feel it necessary.

Also contact our pediatric dentist office to schedule a pre-natal visit with me if you'd like to ask more questions regarding infant/early childhood feeding, the Calma bottle, etc.; as I was aspiring to be an pediatric dietitian before entering dental school and have a master's degree in nutrition and dietetics, I enjoy diet counseling as a component of my dental practice.

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Pediatric Dentist Chicago

2012-01-20T11:32:00.000-08:00

Pediatric Dentist
Pediatric Dentist Chicago
A real story from a patient's second visit to Dentistry For Children, to see Dr. Boyd, the Chicago Pediatric Dentist.

Yesterday we took both girls back in for their first of many dental devices. You may remember our first visit back in November which was completely unpleasant for Lucy. This time I asked the hygienist if she could take off her mask and with that, Lucy was calm. Len sat in the chair this time and we let Kate go first so Lucy could watch and see what was going to happen. It made a world of difference because, as has been demonstrated in nearly every video I've taken of them, Lucy insists on doing whatever Kate is doing even if it's unpleasant. Fortunately, the visit was not unpleasant at all. They were both fitted for infant trainers to help align their jaws correctly. True to form, they remain opposite in every way, even in jaw structure. Lucy needs her upper jaw to move forward and Kate needs her lower jaw to move forward.

Kate had it down pat last night but I could only get Lucy to keep it in her mouth if I distracted her with Yo Gabba Gabba. Pick your battles, right?

As for what else is going on in their mouths, here's what I can recall from trying to listen to the dentist while keeping 2 toddlers from destroying his office:

In order to explain, here's a visual to help in case you aren't familiar with tooth development: Kate has 16 teeth and is working on cutting the last 4--the 2nd molars. That's pretty much it. Normal.

Lucy has 13 teeth. She is missing both lateral incisors on her lower jaw and one lateral incisor on her right upper jaw where her cleft was located. She still needs to cut her 2nd molars as well. Since her bottom lateral incisors never came in that means she will not get them as an adult either. As for the top lateral incisor, it could be there in a stunted form or it may not be there at all. It could still come out through her gums or her palate (really hope that doesn't happen as that will cause nasty problems) or it might not ever come out. This all means that she may or may not have this tooth as an adult either.
For now, we wait are taking a wait-and-see approach. We'll work on jaw alignment with the infant trainer and continue that process with different appliances as they get older, shaping the jaw and keeping the canines where they are supposed to be so her face will keep the proper shape. In the past, dentists would just move all the teeth over to fill the gap where teeth are missing. Now, as they have realized that the canines are kind of like the cornerstones or framing of your face, it is best to keep those in their proper location.

The goal with the infant trainers now is for them to wear them 5-10 minutes a few times a day and then to work up to sleeping with them at night. This will also help them continue to breathe through their noses at night which is optimal for good health.

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Chicago Pediatric Dentist

2012-01-20T11:23:00.000-08:00

A real patient's testimonial about their first visit to Dentistry For Children to see Dr. Boyd, Pediatric Dentist in Chicago.

Yesterday we took both girls to the dentist for the first time. We chose a dentist who works closely with our cleft team--Dr. Boyd. He said her lip and palate looked great--actually thought Dr. Vicari had done her lip it looked so good! She has a 2% overbite but she juts her tongue and lower jaw out which makes her appear to have a big underbite which is to basically say that it's all fixable. She screamed (but surprisingly stayed immobile on my lap, clutching my finger) through both the dental exam and the teeth cleaning which was helpful in that we could see all her teeth and her palate but it did make explanations from the dentist a bit difficult to hear. We go back in January to have her fitted for her first appliance to help her jaw form properly--an infant trainer.

Kate was up next and had the total opposite reaction to the masked hygienist and dentist. You can certainly tell which kid has been traumatized by masked doctors and which kid has not. After examining all the instruments and playing with the water wand, Kate reclined back on me and said "AAAHHHH" the whole time her teeth were being cleaned and examined. Got a clean bill of health but he also said the infant trainer could help her too as he can already see that she is going to have overcrowded teeth (sorry kid, that comes from me...) which is going to affect the way her jaw forms. So, she will go back in January as well.

He recommended that Lucy be weaned from the bottle in a month's time but in my opinion that is going to all depend on how quickly she picks up drinking from something else as the majority of her liquids still comes from the bottle. He also wanted Kate off the sippy cup and straws...bottom line, we should all be only drinking out of cups b/c the other types of cups force your jaw into growing in such a way that keep orthodontists in business. I guess that means Starbucks has been good for business with its version of the adult sippy cup!

Amazingly, no cavities for Lucy (or Kate but no surprise there as she's yet to eat candy and doesn't prefer sweet stuff). The dentist was actually really impressed with how good her teeth and mouth looked overall. He said it was obvious that someone was taking care of her nutritionally (which we could tell based on her overall health and her being able to self-limit on food when at the table). But she also received excellent surgeries which is just astounding based on the horror stories we've heard of fistulas, lips sewn too tight, etc. She got the best care she could have under the circumstances.
Lucy recovered quite quickly as soon as the masks came off the staff and the dental bib was removed. She did hug me and try to hide in my shirt as I was standing us up to leave the room but as soon as she saw Kate and Len in the waiting room she perked right up and started laughing and dancing around. It must just be the masked strangers because she loves to have her teeth brushed every night...in fact she's the one with her mouth wide open saying "AAHHH!"

Kate, meanwhile, was upset when the bib was removed and kept asking for both the bib and the toothpaste...I can assure you she's not as thrilled or compliant when I brush her teeth at night, mouth clamped shut or biting the brush. I guess I need the spinny brush and "Mr. Thirsty" (the thing that sucks the water out of your mouth).

Chicago Pediatric Dentist

Pediatric Dentist Chicago

2011-12-28T12:53:00.000-08:00

Pediatric Dentist Chicago

Kids Dentist Chicago

Family Dentist Chicago

Dentist

Thank you for visiting our blog! We specialize in providing all kinds of dental care for children and patients with special needs (including orthodontics).

Our main goal is to educate children and their parents about the best ways to take care of teeth and gums to ensure optimal dental health and prevent the onset of dental disease.

Good dental health begins with proper nutrition, regular brushing and flossing, the right amount of fluoride, and regular professional exams and cleanings.

Blog Maintained by: Identity Dental Marketing

Dr. Kevin Boyd, leader in Orthotropics Chicago

2011-08-23T12:05:00.000-07:00

Dr. Kevin L. Boyd, leading pediatric dentist in Chicago, provides leading orthodontic treatment, Orthotropics, to his patients.

Content from Orthotropics.com

Orthodontic clinicians in the past have been severely criticised by scientists for ignoring the scientific evidence. Here are some of the comments about orthodontics from world scientific heavyweights they are “behind homeopathy and on a par with scientology” (Sackett 1985), their work is “based on trial and error” (Johnston 1990), the schools “teach technical skills rather than scientific thinking” (Richards 2000), “Sadly it is hard to see this situation change unless the inadequacy of current knowledge is acknowledged” (Shaw 2000), their treatment of crowding “treats a symptom, not the cause”. (Frankel 2001).

Orthodontists are taught that the size and shape of the jaws is inherited and most of their treatment is based on this belief. Clearly if the teeth were too large for the jaws some teeth would have to be extracted but there is almost no evidence to show that this is true.

Many orthodontists consider crowded teeth are caused by interbreeding between humans with different sized jaws. Biologists do not support this view, and even if a 100 kg Great Dane were crossed with a 1kg Chihuahua the offspring would be unlikely to have a malocclusion. There is evidence to suggest that the size of the teeth and jaws is inherited, but little to suggest that disproportionate growth is.

Some orthodontists believe that evolution has caused jaws to become smaller over the last few thousand years (Walpoff 1975). Certainly crowding has got worse, but this has been mostly within the last 400 years (More 1968), which is far too short a period for an evolutionary change. Also an evolutionary change would have to start in one area and spread, but irregular teeth are found all over the world, wherever people take their standard of living above a certain level.

Despite this overwhelming evidence, most orthodontic treatment is still carried out on the basis that disproportionate jaws are inherited and that little can be done to change them. Based on this belief and in contradiction to the evidence the teeth are moved into line mechanically usually coupled with the extraction of either four or eight permanent teeth. If the jaws are in the wrong position orthodontists may recommend that they are cut and corrected surgically. Many thousands of children and young adults have this surgery each year although a substantial proportion of those who have been told that surgery is the "only answer" have subsequently been corrected with Orthotropics. Despite this surgeons are refusing to tell there patients that there might be an alternative.

Iatrogenic Damage caused by ‘Train Tracks’.
Scientists have clearly shown that ‘train tracks’ can damage both the roots and the enamel. "Over 90% of the roots of the teeth show signs of damage following treatment with fixed appliances". (Kurol, et al 1996). "40% of patients show shortening of more than 2.5mm". (Mirabella and Artun 1995). This is a substantial proportion of the root length and must shorten the life of the teeth. Enamel damage, with fixed appliances, is rapid, widespread and long-term. (Ogaard et al 1988) (Ogaard 1989) (Alexander 1993).
All orthodontists accept that faces can be damaged by inappropriate treatment but they disagree about which approach will cause least damage. "The maxillary retraction associated with ‘train tracks’ (Edgewise) contributes to the poorer aesthetic result." (Battagel 1996) and may be "accompanied by exaggerated vertical facial growth".

It is known that ‘Train Tracks’ tend to lengthen the face ( Lundstrom,A. &Woodside,D.G. 1980) and that longer faces look less attractive’ (Lundstrom et al 1987). However there is little sound research to establish how often or how severe the damage may be.
Twins who are genetically identical still show more contrast in the shape of their jaws than any other part of their skeleton (Krause 1959) showing that much of the variation is due to non-genetic environmental factors such as open mouth postures and unusual swallowing habits that distort the growth of the jaws. Orthodontists in the past have found it difficult to explain why modern children have so much malocclusion but the following new hypothesis appears to fit the known facts better than those put forward previously: -

"Environmental factors disrupt resting oral posture, increasing vertical skeletal growth and creating a dental malocclusion, the occlusal characteristics of which are determined by inherited muscle patterns, primarily of the tongue" (Mew 2004).

Most children with sticking out front teeth are treated by pulling them back. However, if you look at the side of such a child's face, you can see that the fault is often their lower jaw which is too far back (see Antonia below). Almost all orthodontists pull back the top teeth in this situation risking an increase in downward growth with subsequent damage to the face. It is important that prospective patients are warned of this risk, because little research is being done to establish how often it occurs. However Antonia had Orthotropics to take both her upper and lower jaws forward.

In conclusion, space to align the teeth can be provided by extractions and ‘train tracks’ but the crowding is likely to return, especially of the lower front teeth (Little 1988). There is also a risk of damage to the teeth and face. Orthotropics aims to avoid extractions by early correction of the cause rather than later treatment of the result, but is highly dependent on the ability of the child to learn to keep their mouth closed.

Orthodontist Chicago

Pediatric Dentist Chicago
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Best Pediatric Dentist

2011-08-23T11:52:00.000-07:00

Mom Loves Pediatric Dentist, Dr. Kevin's Passion

June 28, 2011

"I appreciate Dr. Boyd's focus on children's overall health. He stresses the importance of good nutrition and how it affects dental health and how orthodontic work can improve a child's breathing. Dr. Boyd also studies history and anthropology so that he can better understand how our teeth got to where they are today. Gotta love his passion for what he does; I do."
Audrey Zuschlag Chicago

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A Different Kind of Pediatric Dentistry

2011-08-23T11:50:00.000-07:00

Dr. Kevin Boyd not only practices pediatric dentistry. He is one of the leaders in Orthotropics.

Pediatric Dentist, Dr. Kevin Boyd

Kevin Boyd is a pediatric dentist with over 20 years experience delivering outstanding dental healthcare to infants, children, adolescents, and young adults with physical and/or mental disabilities, and other special needs. After graduating from Loyola University's Chicago College of Dentistry in 1986, he attended the University of Iowa for his advanced residency training in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Boyd also holds an advanced degree (M.Sc.) in Human Nutrition and Dietetics from Michigan State University where he participated in research projects related to unhealthy eating and how it contributes to tooth decay, obesity and Type 2 Diabetes. His strong academic background in nutritional biochemistry has been instrumental in motivating the importance he places on nutrition as being a key component of each child's dental health plan. He has been on staff at the University of Illinois College of Dentistry, Rush Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center and Michael Reese Hospital as an attending clinical instructor. Following this, he was in charge of the pediatric division of dentistry at the University of Chicago Hospitals and Clinics and La Rabida Children's Hospital where he also served as a member of the U of C Cleft Palate Team—a highly specialized group consisting of plastic surgeons, oral surgeons, pediatricians, otolaryngologists, speech pathologists, orthodontists and pediatric dentists, who manage the physical, emotional and social challenges of children with facial abnormalities.

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Pediatric Dentist Chicago

2011-07-18T10:15:00.000-07:00

Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist?

Pediatric Dentistry was formerly known as Pedodontics and is the dental specialty recognized by the American Dental Association which encompasses comprehensive dental care for all children, from infancy through adolescence. A children's dentist is a practitioner who, after becoming a general dentist (often called a family dentist), has completed an additional two years of post-doctoral training in the recognition and treatment of children's dental and orthodontic problems. Specialty education includes child psychology, behavior guidance, preventive techniques, restorative dentistry, interceptive and comprehensive care (braces), and the treatment of handicapped or chronically ill children. A pediatric dentist is the only dentist completely qualified in delivering comprehensive children's dental care. The dentist and staff strive to make the child's experience safe, comfortable, educational, and fun.
It is very common that parents now choose a pediatric dentist for their child's dental needs, just as they prefer a pediatrician for their child's medical needs.

Pediatric Dentistry

2011-06-14T14:04:00.000-07:00

pediatric dentist

When Dentists Fear Children

By Laird Harrison, Senior Editor
February 3, 2010 -- In a series of three articles and videos during February -- Children's Dental Health Month -- DrBicuspid.com is exploring what dental professionals can do to make early childhood visits pleasant and productive for patient and provider alike.

Even if they understand directions, toddlers often refuse to follow them. They squirm, cry, puke, and wet their pants during dental visits. What teeth they have will fall out no matter what you do. So it's no wonder that many dental professionals don't want to deal with them.
"The general practice community may find it very intimidating," said John Rutkauskas, D.D.S., CEO of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). The AAPD recommends that children see a dentist by the end of their first year or within six months of the eruption of their first tooth. But surveys suggest most kids aren't making it to the dentist that early.
What's stopping them?
The ADA supports the first-year or first-tooth recommendation, as does the American Association of Public Health Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics.
One study of Medicaid children in North Carolina found that the earlier a child's first dental visit, the less likely the child was to need restorative or emergency dental visits over the next five years and the lower the cost of caring for the child's oral health during that time (Pediatrics, October 2004, Vol. 114:4, pp. e418-e423).

But the policy first promulgated by the AAPD in 2001 has yet to take hold. In September of 2009, only 36% (± 3%) of 914 of Americans with children younger than age 12 agreed with the first-year or first-tooth recommendation, according to a Delta Dental survey.
Previously some health organizations recommended a first dental visit by age 3. But most people aren't even following this recommendation. University of Iowa researchers writing in Pediatric Dentistry (January/February 2002, Vol. 24:1, pp. 64-68) reported that only 31% of children whose caregivers they surveyed had seen a dentist by age 3.
Other research suggests that children's fear is the biggest reason general dentists refer patients to pediatric specialists (International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry, November 2007, Vol. 17:6, pp. 407-418). So how can you ease that anxiety?

The distracting dentist
Practitioners who specialize in treating children make their practices welcoming by letting the kids and their parents know what to expect, said Brian Quo, D.D.S., M.A., a Palo Alto, CA, pediatric dentist. Some pediatric specialists even offer a dental appointment without an examination, just to make friends.
Dental practices can decorate walls with posters of cartoon characters and furnish the waiting room, or even the operatory, with child-sized furniture, books, and toys. All this can make the office feel more inviting and familiar to its youngest visitors.
During the appointment, pediatric experts employ three key techniques: distraction, praise, and "tell, show, do."
With distraction, the idea is to take the child's mind off a procedure that might feel uncomfortable or frightening. Some dentists now employ electronic entertainment by using such devices as iPods, Game Boys, video goggles, or TV screens.
But when the entertainment comes from a human being, it's more likely to build rapport. Distraction can be as simple as asking a child to find his or her belly button just before you inject an anesthetic, asking about the child's interests, or suggesting that the child count how many seconds a procedure is taking.
Leticia Mendoza-Sobel, D.D.S., a pediatric dentist in Piedmont, CA, and an assistant professor at the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, has made a name for herself by telling her patients stories, singing songs, and playing games.
The approach helps her as much as it does the patients. "I love children. They let me be myself and act silly," she said.
Next week: Perhaps the simplest, yet most powerful, technique for calming kids is "tell, show, do." The second article in this series will demonstrate how to make this approach work in your practice.

Pediatric Dentist

2011-06-03T09:49:00.000-07:00

Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist?

There are a number of reasons why you should choose a pediatric dentist for your child. Pediatric dentists receive specialty training in addition to their doctorate in dentistry. During the two-year period after dental school, pediatric dentists learn skills specific to treating children. The doctors learn how to provide care for special needs patients, young children, and fearful children.

Pediatric dentists also learn more about growth and development. This allows them to identify orthodontic problems early, in order to suggest the most effective treatment.

When children first visit the dentist, it can cause anxiety. If their early visits to the dentist are not pleasant, it could lead to a lifetime of dental phobia. Pediatric dentists often usually have ways to make the dental visit fun and comforting for the child.

The AAPD, American Associattion of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child see a dentist before his/her first birthday. This initial visit will get the child comfortable with dental visits. It also will allow the pediatric dentist to evaluate your child's oral health. Oral problems in babies can be treated painlessly if they are identified early.

For more information about our office visit http://www.dentistry4children.net.

Pediatric Dentist Chicago
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How to Care for Children's Teeth

2011-03-17T11:27:00.000-07:00

Oral Health Care Tips for Children

List of Dental Health Tips for Children:

First Dental Visit: It is important your child see a pediatric dentist by age one to establish a long-term dental hygiene and professional dental cleaning plan.

Dental Sealant Application: Dental sealants are used to protect teeth from decay and are appropriate as soon as a tooth erupts.

Baby Teeth Cleaning: Baby teeth should be cleaned as soon as they erupt. Clean your baby's teeth with a soft washcloth or gauze after every bottle or meal. When more than one tooth erupts, you can soak a small-bristled child-sized (age-appropriate) toothbrush in warm water before using it on your baby's teeth, as instructed by your dentist.

Baby teeth should be brushed using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Use water without fluoride until approximately six months of age. Encourage your children to brush their own teeth once they have the coordination to do so. Replace toothbrushes every two to three months.
Children's teeth should be brushed after they are given medicine. Acids contained in medicines may eat away at tooth enamel, which serves as a natural protective coating for the teeth.

Fluoride Treatments: Check with your dentist and water authority about the need for fluoride treatments. Fluoride is a major component in the prevention of childhood dental caries. This is because fluoride alters the molecular structure of the tooth, making it more resistant to acid attack and decay. However, children require the right balance of fluoride treatment. Too much fluoride could be problematic and lead to fluorosis.

Mouth Washing: Mouth washing is usually recommended by age seven, provided your child can perform the activity.

Dental Flossing: Parent-assisted dental flossing should commence when two teeth erupt next to each other. Independent flossing should occur when children have the ability to do it on their own (often by six years of age).

Pediatric Dental Care Chicago
Pediatric Dentist Chicago
Chicago Pediatric Dentist
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Early Orthodontic Treatment- Chicago Pediatric Dentist

2011-03-02T15:08:00.000-08:00

Need and Advantages of Early Orthodontic Treatment

Timmy had been extremely quiet when you talked to him after summer camp today. Some kids, he says, referred to him as “buck tooth”. You hugged and reassured him that they were just simply kids that do not understand that his smile is changing because of typical development and that very soon his beautiful, healthy adult teeth will be replacing all his primary teeth. Nevertheless, it became apparent that Timmy’s central teeth stick out too much.

You might also be concerned with Timmy's appearance and psychological health? Does the position of his tooth affect his speech? Is that this an ordinary developmental phase? And also, when it is a temporary phase should you intervene to avoid a few psychological or even social scarring of your child?

The U.S. Connection of Orthodontics recommends that all children be seen by an orthodontist by the age of 7. You can find good reasons behind this recommendation.

The following is a “Bite & Smile" checklist. So grab any pad and keep an eye on at the child’s smile.
Chew & Smile Check List
-Do the youngster's top teeth stand out past an acceptable limit?
-Do your child's front teeth touch the lower too much?
-As soon as your kid's back teeth touch, can he/she stick their particular tongue among leading teeth?
-Is there be enough space for your child's enamel?

If you've answered yes to any of these questions, you should bring your child for an orthodontic consultation at a dental office in Chicago, or your local town.

Chicago Orthodontist
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Pediatric Dentist | Orthodontist | Chicago

2011-03-02T14:37:00.000-08:00

Chicago Pediatric Dentist

Child's First Visit
It is very important to start children early in the right direction for good dental hygiene. A starting time for that first dental exam is when your child's teeth begin to appear, usually before age one. You can make the first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive. Your child should be informed of the visit. We will take the time to get to know your child and make sure he/she is comfortable while in our office.

It is best to keep from using words around your child that might cause anxiety or fear, such as needle, pull, drill or hurt.

Pediatric dental offices make a practice of using words that convey the same message, but are pleasant and non-frightening to a child.

We encourage patients to come back to the treatment room alone so we may build a secure and comfortable relationship with them. We find when the parent is present, their attention to us is divided.

Unlike some dental offices, we invite parents to accompany their child. Brushing techniques, flossing, healthy snacks and fluoride recommendations are just some of the topics discussed during your child's initial cleaning and exam appointment. Most importantly, your child becomes comfortable with visiting the dentist from an early age. It also allows us to watch growth patterns and look for any oral problems that may exist.

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Pediatric Dentist Chicago Free Parking

2011-02-18T11:49:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder...

Chicago Pediatric Dentist

Although we are located in the heart of Lincoln Park, we do provide parking for our patients and families behind our building.

We also provide dental care for adults and have an experienced general dentist on staff (Dr. Pannaralla).

We also offer Orthodontic care for children.

Orthodontist Chicago

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Infant and Toddler Dental Care

2011-02-18T10:51:00.000-08:00

Infants and toddlers are not immune to dental health problems. The 2000, “Oral Health in America: A Report of the Surgeon General” found that tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic childhood disease – five times more common than asthma and seven times more common than hay fever. It has become an alarming and growing problem in children aged 2 to 5 years old. This is why we stress the importance of establishing a dental home for your child for the first tooth and learn the simple preventive measures for your home.

We highly encourage you seek the care of a pediatric dentist for your children. If you choose our Chicago Pediatric Dental Office, we look forward to a happy and rewarding relationship with your family.

Why Choose A Pediatric Dentist

2011-02-18T10:49:00.000-08:00

As pediatric dentist in Chicago, Dr. Boyd, is trained to create a positive enjoyable experience for children visiting the dental office.

Pediatric dentists must complete a two-year specialty residency in addition to their basic four years of dental school. The residency focuses on the special care of children from infancy through adolescence. The doctors learn about the processes of a growing, changing and developing child. They learn specifically about the mouth, face, head and neck development. This residency also teaches dentists how the growing body’s health and nutrition relates to the oral health of the growing child. During these studies dentists learn how to calm an anxious young patient and how to use the dental equipment designed for children.

Dr. Boyd, like most pediatric dentists, specializes in the care of infants, children and adolescents as well as children and adults with special needs . Dental care for an infant should begin as early as six months, or at the time the child receives his/her first tooth. A pediatric dentist is trained to understand the growth and development of the mouth, the process of oral maturation and can identify and correct irregular growth patterns to create a solid bite and beautiful smile.

Pediatric dental offices often function, look, and feel different from a general dentist offices. It is all part of helping a child and family have positive dental experiences. At Dentistry For Children we focus on helping the child understand the importance and simplicity of a healthy nutrition and good oral health routines that will create strong beautiful teeth to last a lifetime.

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Dental Care for Your Baby

2011-01-21T11:34:00.000-08:00

Dental Care for Your Baby (According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry)

Q. When should my child first see a dentist?

"First visit by first birthday" sums it up. Your child should visit a pediatric dentist when the first tooth comes in, usually between 6 and 12 months of age. This visit will establish a dental home for your child. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child’s smile now and in the future.

Q. Why so early? What dental problems could a baby have?

The most important reason is to begin a thorough prevention program. Dental problems can begin early. A big concern is Early Childhood Caries (formerly known as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries). Once a child’s diet includes anything besides breast-milk, erupted teeth are at risk for decay. The earlier the dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental problems. Children with healthy teeth chew food easily and smile with confidence. Start your child now on a lifetime of good dental habits.

Q. How can I prevent tooth decay from nursing or using a bottle?

At-will breast-feeding should be avoided after the first primary (baby) teeth begin to erupt and other sources of nutrition have been introduced. Children should not fall asleep with a bottle containing anything other than water. Drinking juice from a bottle should be avoided. Fruit juice should only be offered in a cup with meals or at snack time.

Q. When should bottle-feeding be stopped?

Children should be weaned from the bottle at 12-14 months of age.

Q. Should I worry about thumb and finger sucking?

Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants; many stop by age 2. Prolonged thumb sucking can create crooked teeth or bite problems. If the habit continues beyond age 3, a professional evaluation is recommended. Your pediatric dentist will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb sucking habit.

Q. When should I start cleaning my baby’s teeth?

The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush or cloth and water. As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily using fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, age-appropriate sized toothbrush. Use a "smear" of toothpaste to brush the teeth of a child less than 2 years of age. For the 2-5 year old, dispense a "pea-size" amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s toothbrushing. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively.

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Shocking Dental Statistics

2011-01-13T11:45:00.001-08:00

Dental Care is still a very neglected form of healthcare in children in the United States.

42% of children 2 to 11 have had Tooth Decay (dental caries) in their primary teeth.

Children 2 to 11 have an average of 1.6 decayed primary teeth and 3.6 decayed primary surfaces.

21% of children 6 to 11 have had Tooth Decay (dental caries) in their permanent teeth.

8% of children 6 to 11 have untreated decay.

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Pediatric Dentists in Chicago Prepare for Midwinter

2011-01-10T11:48:00.000-08:00

February is quickly approaching. Each year, the Midwinter Dental Convention comes to Chicago.

It's where dentists in the midwest join to explore the latest dental technologies, equipment, software and office managing.

This year, there are a number of technology and marketing related seminars that staff and doctors have the option of attending.

Most offices will close for a day and take a field trip to Chicago for this event. It's a fun way to bond with staff and stay up to date with the industry advancements.

If you're a dentist in Chicago, we recommend making time for the annual convention. It's a good time!

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Pediatric Dentistry & Dental Phobia

2011-01-04T15:17:00.000-08:00

Bringing your child to the dentist from an early age can prevent dental phobia later in life.

When children see their parents visiting the dentist and when they receive professional dental care from a trusted dentist, they learn the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

At Dentistry For Children And Families, children are taught the importance of at-home care. They also learn about nutrition at each appointment.

To contact Dentistry For Children and Families in Chicago Illinois, visit Children's Dentist Chicago.

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Top 10 Reasons to bring your child to the dentist

2011-01-03T12:46:00.000-08:00

10. Instill habits that promote good health from an early age.

9. Have your child's growth patterns observed from an early age to provide orthodontic treatment at the right time.

8. Prevent painful cavities through professional cleanings.

7. Provide sealants to your child's molars to prevent decay.

6. Establish a comfortable dental "home" for your child.

5. Prevent dental phobia, which can evolve if the child isn't used to regular dental check ups.

4. Provide your child with professional, regular dental health related education.

3. Teach your children from an early age that their oral health is important.

2. Because you don't want your child to be "the smelly kid" in school.

1. Establish important dental habits that will lead to a lifetime of smiles!

Contact us at Pediatric Dentist Chicago
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Pediatric Dentist Chicago

2010-12-29T12:10:00.000-08:00

Pediatric Dentist Chicago

Orthodontist in Chicago

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Pediatric Dentist Chicago Orthodontic Care

2010-12-29T11:59:00.000-08:00

The qualities that separate our practice from others are our unique, caring, talented and highly skilled doctors and staff. We know just how to relate to children and how to make any child comfortable. It's our goal to provide healthy smiles for a lifetime.

Our services to dramatically reduce the chances of early childhood dental decay and simultaneously significantly reduce the many dental fears that children often develop.

The AAPD (American Association of Pediatric Dentistry) and the AAP (American Association of Pediatricians) recommends that children see the dentist before reaching the age of one. Our pediatric dentists prevention program paired with a caring environment can significantly reduce or eliminate decay.

At each dental exam, we monitor the growth and development patterns of each patient's teeth, jaws, face. Dr. Boyd and Pannaralla are especially trained to diagnose potential developmental orthodontic problems at a very young age.

Some of these problems can best be treated early when the jaws are more receptive to treatment and growth of the face is active. The most important factor in determining the most proper form of treatment is regular examinations.

Usually by the time orthodontic treatment is needed, our patients have become a part of our family. We place a large importance on our relationship with even our youngest patients. It's our goal to establish oral and overall health practices, encourage healthy eating, and provide smiles for a lifetime.

Pediatric Dentist Chicago

Instead of apple juice, eat an apple!

2010-12-27T11:34:00.000-08:00

Unlike most Chicago Pediatric Dentists, we emphasize of importance on the nutrition for children and adults. We incorporate healthy eating tips into each exam and consultation. Nutrition plays a large role on the proper development of teeth, and contributes to the overall health of our patients. Many may not relate nutrition with dental health, but a healthy diet affects the entire body. Food enters the body through the mouth, and since our teeth are porous and our saliva has bacteria in it, the food we eat interacts with our mouths and affects not only our bodies, but our teeth and gums.

Healthy eating and snacking habits are important to dental health because the most common dental problem, plaque build-up, is preventable by cutting out certain foods and regulating others. Plaque, an opaque build up that accumulates on teeth near the gum-line, thrives on starches and sugars commonly found in sweets and snack foods. The interaction between the bacteria in your mouth and sugars and starches promotes plaque growth which produces an acid that eats at the enamel of teeth and eventually causes tooth decay. The best defense against tooth decay is to limit the amount of sweets and starchy snacks, brush well after each meal, and keep regular professional dental hygiene appointments.

We incorporate nutrition into our dental education. For more information, please contact us.
http://www.dentistry4children.net

DENTISTRY FOR TEENS!

2010-12-08T12:45:00.000-08:00

At Dentistry For Children and Families, we remind parents of the importance of setting regular dental appointments for their teenages. Adolescents especially need regular and professional dental care as they grow into adulthood. In addition to complete oral examinations and dental treatment, teens that visit Dentistry For Children and Families also receive educational materials about at-home dental care and nutrition.

It's important for adolescents to develop healthy dental habits. Adolescents are at a high risk for gum disease, tooth decay, and other serious dental problems. Proper dental education and professional care from Dentistry For Children will instill excellent hygiene practices that will continue into adulthood.

For more information about Dental Needs in Adolescence, please contact us. http://www.dentistry4children.net.

Pediatric Dentist Chicago Provides Free Exams

2010-12-06T08:23:00.000-08:00

In order to promote infant dental care, our office (Dentistry For Children and Families in Lincoln Park) is offering free dental exams for children under the age of one.

According to the AAPD, American Association of Pediatric Dentistry, children should see the dentist for an exam before their first birthday.

Unfortunately, many parents do not yet understand the value of this first visit. To help promote dental exams for infants and help educate Chicago parents of the importance of children's dental care, we have decided to provide the exams at no cost. This allows us to evaluate the development of the existing primary teeth, as well as examine the condition of the gums.

This first visit allows young children to get comfortable with dental visits and it helps to decrease the likelihood of dental anxiety in the child as he ages. It also allows us an opportunity to discuss other health related topics with parents. Topics such as: nutrition, thumb sucking, and baby bottle habits are all discussed.

To get more information about getting a free dental exam for your baby, please contact Dentistry For Children and Families at 312-988-9855 or visit www.dentistry4children.net.