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Any child can feel anxious about going to the dentist, but for children with autism spectrum disorders, high sensitivity and other health care needs, it can be especially challenging. The unfamiliar sounds, smells and sights of a new dental office can be an overwhelming experience.

Luckily, dental visits do not need to be a source of anxiety for kids with autism, high sensitivity, ADHD or any other physical, developmental, emotional or medical conditions. At Innovative Pediatric Dentistry, our board-certified pediatric dentist and team are trained in treating kids with a range of health care needs, and we know how to put them at ease. Plus, as a high-tech practice, we have a variety of tools for quick, comfy visits. 

Looking for a sensory-friendly dentist in Naperville? Here are our five favorite dental technologies that can help make dental care stress-free for kids with special needs:

Sensory-Friendly Dental Technology

1. NOMAD Digital X-Ray Device

With conventional x-ray machines, kids have to sit very still while chomping down on bitewings that dig into their cheeks. Then, the dental assistant has to leave them alone in the room to take the x-rays, which can be scary for kids, especially those with autism or anxiety. 

Our NOMAD device is a handheld x-ray machine with a built-in shield protector, so the operator never has to leave the room. (Not to mention, the NOMAD looks like a Star Wars prop, so it has a dual entertainment value for your little one!) The NOMAD is used with our Gendex™ digital pedo sensors. These small sensors replace traditional bitewings for a more comfortable, squirm-free experience. 

Our favorite perks of the NOMAD digital x-ray device include:

• It emits significantly less radiation than traditional x-rays
• Images show up instantly on the computer screen (decreasing appointment times)
• It takes x-rays twice as fast as a conventional machine
• The dental assistant stays in the room with your little one

2. Dexis CariVu™

Nobody likes a cavity, however, the faster we diagnose and address decay, the easier and less involved treatment will be. Our DEXIS CariVu cavity detector reveals every suspicious area of a patient’s mouth and gives us a closer view without exposing a patient to any more radiation. Even small areas of decay don’t go undetected, and healthy teeth aren’t misdiagnosed as having cavities.

This handheld device works by shining safe, near-infrared light straight through teeth, which makes the enamel transparent while cracks and decay appear dark. The process is comfortable, quick and completely painless. 

Accurately diagnosing cavities and decay allows us to conservatively treat patients with the least invasive option possible. When it comes to anxiety or autism and dentistry, early detection is ideal. 

Our favorite perks of DEXIS CariVu include:

• Captures hard-to-see areas for early intervention 
• Your little one gets to see their teeth on the screen and learn about their oral health
• Small in size for optimal comfort
• Emits zero ionizing radiation

3. Diode Laser

Needles can be a cause of anxiety for our younger patients, which is why we are so excited about the diode laser. The laser offers a painless, needle-free alternative for procedures like removing excess gum tissue, lip- and tongue-tie revisions, encouraging tooth eruption and more. 

Our expert dentist applies a topical anesthetic, so the only thing your child will feel is the movement of the laser. This dental technology is really helpful when managing the dental health of special needs kids.

Our favorite perks of the diode laser include:

• Comfortable and needle-free, making it great for even the youngest patients
• The precision of the laser means highly accurate procedures that don’t damage the surrounding tissue
• It can be used for a variety of different treatments

4. iTero® Digital Scanner

Messy, goopy impressions are a thing of the past! With a fancy digital wand, our iTero Digital Scanner snaps images of your kid’s teeth and gums in seconds. The computerized 3D model of their mouth appears on the screen, so your child can see what the inside of their mouth looks like in real-time. 

Unlike regular impressions, there is no weird taste or dealing with the sensation of biting into putty, kids can breathe and swallow normally during the scan and it doesn’t cause gagging. 

Our favorite perks of the iTero Digital Scanner include:

• No radiation or messy materials
• We get high-definition images instantly on our screen
• The scans create a 3D model of the mouth for precise treatment planning
• The lightweight wand takes more accurate images than old impression methods 

5. Dry Shield

During dental procedures, our dentists need to keep the area we are working on dry. Commonly, a rubber dental dam is used, which is uncomfortable and can leave patients with a sore jaw. Plus, there are a flurry of hands in your child’s mouth because an assistant needs to manage the water and suction, while the dentist works on their smile. This can all lead to sensory overload and make it hard for a child to sit still. 

 Dry Shield is an incredibly effective alternative that we use at Innovative Pediatric Dentistry. 

The all-in-one device includes a bite block, kid-sized mouthpiece, suction, an oral pathway protector and a tongue shield. Not only is it more comfortable for the patient, it also lets us complete procedures more quickly and safely. 

Our favorite perks of Dry Shield include:

• It has hands-free suction, so the dental assistant can focus on your child while the dentist completes the job
• The pediatric mouthpieces are made from soft silicone and come in different sizes
• Bite blocks improve visibility for the dentist and support the patient’s jaw
• Cheek retractors and tongue and oral pathway shields protect the mouth from any injury during a procedure 

Sensory-friendly Bonus Tip

Did you know that being thirsty or hungry can lead to sensory overload for your child? If their body is preoccupied with these feelings, they cannot manage other sensations and stimuli and will often feel more agitated and stressed. The same goes for if your child has to use the bathroom. A great way to ensure a smooth dental visit is to make sure your child is fed, hydrated and uses the bathroom before their visit. 

Choosing A Dentist For Kids With Autism, Anxiety And Special Healthcare Needs

Looking for an autism-friendly dentist near you? Our pediatric dentist in Naperville is proud to provide a sensory-friendly dental experience for your child. Book an appointment today! Or if you have more questions about how we can help prepare your child for their dental visit, please call or email us. 

 

We all know that excessive amounts of soda, juice and sports drinks can cause cavities. But what about sparkling water or seltzer? Some parents have a hard time getting their little ones to stay hydrated and wonder if sparkling water is a solution to inspire better hydration habits. 

In the last few years, sparkling water has increased in popularity with an array of brands and flavors to choose from. These brands boast zero calories, zero sugar and zero artificial sweeteners. So why are you seeing headlines that say sparkling water is bad for kids’ teeth? 

The short answer is that any drink with carbonation has a higher acid level. Some dental studies have questioned if the acidity can wear down your tooth enamel (the visible, outermost covering of your teeth). 

In this post, the team at Innovative Pediatric Dentistry is setting the record straight.

Is seltzer water bad for your teeth? 

In moderation, seltzer water is not bad for kids’ teeth and it doesn’t cause cavities. 

When you think of tooth decay, the main culprit that comes to mind is probably sugar. In reality, it is acid that ultimately damages teeth. The bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and then convert it into a waste product in the form of acid. This acid then sits on the surface of your teeth and eats through enamel, eventually causing cavities. 

With sparkling water, you still expose your teeth to acid but have eliminated the middleman, sugar. Carbonated water has carbonic acid, which like any acid, can be tough on enamel, but it is far less threatening to your child’s oral health than a fizzy drink with both sugar and carbonation. 

Plain sparkling or seltzer water is the best fizzy drink for teeth, because it has no sugar and no extra acidity from flavorings. 

Back to school: Carbonated water and teeth

As noted above, the bubbles in carbonated beverages come from the addition of carbonic acid. Sugary and acidic foods and drinks lower the pH of the mouth, which can erode enamel and cause cavities.

A healthy mouth has an average pH of 7.5. Enamel can start to break down when the mouth’s pH is less than 5.5. For reference:

• The average pH of sparkling water is about 4.5 
• The average pH of flavored sparkling water can be as low as 2.5
• The pH of Coke is 2.4
• The pH of orange juice is 3.5
• The pH of regular water is 7

Saliva contains mineral buffers that help keep the mouth’s pH consistent, so it’s not about totally avoiding these drinks; it’s just about balancing them.  

A study: Seltzer and teeth

The American Dental Association (ADA) published an article on the effects of sparkling water. The study used donated teeth soaked in different beverages to see which caused erosion. The teeth were exposed for 24 hours, which was thought to mimic a year of exposure to sparkling drinks. 

Research showed varying degrees of erosion from every beverage aside from the non-carbonated, non-flavored bottled water. That said, the flavored sparkling waters eroded enamel to a lesser degree than regular and sugar-free soda. 

Unsurprisingly, fluoridated, still water remains the number one choice for your oral health.

How do I protect my kids’ teeth?

Now that you know the occasional sparkling water does not cause cavities, here are some steps you can take to minimize any enamel erosion:

Use a straw

Reusable metal or glass straws are a great thing to keep in your family’s household. Both you and your child can reduce the contact that sparkling water has with your teeth by using a straw or rinsing with regular water afterwards.

Drink sparkling water at mealtimes

Another great tip is that if your child is going to drink sparkling water, have them pair it with a meal. The acidity of the seltzer will be diluted by the food they’re eating and the saliva they produce during meals. 

Brush – but not right away

Brushing immediately after having anything acidic, including carbonated drinks, can inadvertently damage your child’s enamel while it’s in a temporarily weakened state. Instead, wait 30 minutes to an hour before brushing to give the pH in the mouth time to return to normal. Be sure to have your child brush their teeth at least two times a day using a fluoride toothpaste. 

 

Schedule an appointment with your Naperville pediatric dentist

Another proactive way to protect your child’s teeth is to schedule regular dental visits. Our board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Kirby Goodwine, will work with your family to create a personalized plan that gives your child their healthiest smile. Regular checkups can also detect early signs of tooth decay and gum disease, preventing more serious dental issues in the future. 

Book your kid’s preventative dental care today

Sparkling water is by no means terrible for kids’ teeth when they have it in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. Keep your child’s smile healthy with preventative care so they can safely enjoy something fizzy.

In addition to ensuring twice-annual checkups and cleanings, a great oral care routine includes effective at-home care. Here are three tips from the award-winning doctors at Innovative Pediatric Dentistry.

1. Start Early With Baby Oral Hygiene 

Oral hygiene can start even before a child has their first teeth. Naperville’s pediatric dentist recommends wiping baby’s gums with a soft, clean wet washcloth after feeding to prevent bacterial growth. And give baby the chance for a healthy mouth by:

• Not letting them fall asleep with a bottle of milk or juice
• Weaning off pacifier use or thumbsucking by the early toddler years
• Avoiding juice
• Rinsing with water after sweet medications

Once first teeth erupt, brush teeth and gums with a baby toothbrush and a rice grain-sized amount of kid-friendly fluoride toothpaste twice a day. When teeth start touching, floss once a day.

2. Make Teeth-Brushing Fun 

Getting kids excited about their at-home dental routine can be challenging. So the experts at Innovative Pediatric Dentistry have put together this handy downloadable kids’ brushing guide for making teeth time a blast. Find tips for choosing a kid-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste, using music to make brushing fly by, and adding apps to make brushing more interactive.

3. Eat and Drink For Happy, Healthy Teeth

Foods high in vitamins and minerals and low in sugar are the best bet for strong, healthy teeth. A child’s smile will benefit from a daily diet that includes: 

• Brightly colored veggies and fruits for vitamins A, C, and K
• Dairy or dairy alternatives for teeth-strengthening calcium, vitamin D, and protein
• Water for plenty of saliva, building healthy oral tissue, and washing away sugar and food debris

Understandably, enjoying some sugary foods is part of kid life. So after sweet treats, kids can help their oral health by rinsing their mouth with water to wash sticky sugars off their teeth.

About Innovative Pediatric Dentistry

At Innovative Pediatric Dentistry, routine dental visits are far from boring. Naperville’s award-winning pediatric dentists go the extra mile to make dental care fun and exciting, setting children up for lifelong oral health. The warm and inviting office, specifically designed with kids in mind, is safe and comfortable from the very first visit. 

The doctors at Innovative Pediatric Dentistry are specially trained to care for children’s developing mouths, with tricks and techniques to guarantee kids leave the dentist with a smile on their face.

Woohoo! Our very own Dr. Kirby Goodwine is now a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. This means he’s officially board certified. And that’s a big accomplishment! We’ll be breaking down the path he took to get there and how it benefits the patients here at our Naperville practice. 

What is a Pediatric Dentist?

Before board certification was even a thought, Dr. Kirby had to first become a pediatric dentist. Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of the tooth world. This dental speciality focuses on the unique oral health needs of infants, children and teens, including those with special health care needs. 

How to Become a Pediatric Dentist

After graduating from a college or university, a pediatric dentist like Dr. Kirby attends four years of dental school, where they obtain their Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DSD) degree. After passing examinations, a dentist can begin practicing general dentistry. 

However, because a pediatric dentist is a specialist, they must attend a two-year residency program where they receive extensive specialty training and hands-on experience in children’s dentistry. Dr. Kirby did his residency at The University of Louisville/Norton’s Children Hospital.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, pediatric dental residents learn:

• Advanced diagnostics
• Advanced surgical procedures
• Child psychology and development
• Behavior management
• Oral pathology
• Pharmacology
• Conscious sedation and general anesthesia
• Radiology
• Management of oral and facial trauma
• Care for patients with special needs

With a successful residency under their belt and all exams passed, residents get their Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Kirby simultaneously achieved his Master of Oral Science degree too. How long does it take to become a pediatric dentist? All said and done, after high school, it takes a minimum of 10 years to become a pediatric dental specialist! 

What Does Board Certified Mean for a Pediatric Dentist?

All pediatric dentists are specialists but not all pediatric dentists are board certified. Achieving board certification is an extra, voluntary step following residency and requires a whole lot of additional preparation.

Here’s what the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry certification process entails:

• Qualifying Examination – This four-hour test evaluates the pediatric dentist’s understanding of the biology and science of pediatric dentistry, as well as the current literature related to the field. Passing the exam demonstrates an in-depth, well-rounded knowledge of children’s dentistry.
• Oral Clinical Examination – After applying for board candidacy and passing the qualifying exam, pediatric dentists can then apply for the oral clinical examination. The clinical exam evaluates the pediatric dentist’s ability to solve clinical cases and successfully treat different types of pediatric patients. 

During the exam, examiners present clinical cases to the pediatric dentist for discussion. The dentist then has to demonstrate that they can diagnose and treat the case using evidence-based therapy. 

• Board Certification – If the pediatric dentist passes both examinations and has their credentials verified, they’ll become board certified and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. 
• Renewal – To maintain board certification, Diplomates have to complete an annual renewal process, which includes continuing education and continuous quality improvement modules. And, every 10 years, they have to pass another examination.

Here’s Why This Achievement is Awesome for Our Patients

Becoming American board certified is an intense (and voluntary!) process that comes on top of the extensive education and training Dr. Kirby already completed in order to earn his Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry. It really shows his knowledge and commitment to providing the highest quality pediatric dental care. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your child’s smile is in expert hands. 

And, speaking of intense, have no fear about Dr. Kirby’s ability to face tantrums, fearful toddlers or kids who refuse to cooperate with patience and skill. After all, during his oral clinical exam, he stood in a room with examiners and solved clinical cases on the spot without breaking a sweat. 

Board certification is also an indication of Dr. Kirby’s dedication to lifelong learning. To maintain his Diplomate status, he has to complete annual continuing education and other requirements. This ensures he remains on the leading-edge of the rapidly evolving field and that he constantly adapts his practice in accordance with the most current, proven scientific evidence and technology. 

While the team here at Innovative Pediatric Dentistry has always thought Dr. Kirby was the best of the best, his achievement shows that the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry does too! 

How Do I Find a Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist Near Me?

If you live in the Chicagoland-area, Dr. Kirby Goodwine has you covered! Schedule a visit for your child at Innovative Pediatric Dentistry in Naperville today. 

Not in the area? Find a board-certified pediatric dentist near you here.

 

 

Well, we’re changing that here at Innovative Pediatric Dentistry. We searched high and low for cute, fun oral hygiene gifts that little ones will actually like – yup, including toothpaste. 

Here are some of our favorite, smile-friendly stocking stuffer ideas for kids:

1. Hum by Colgate Smart Manual Toothbrush for Kids – Getting a colorful, bright kids’ toothbrush is great for encouraging regular brushing without a struggle. Colgate took it to the next level with Hum. The smart toothbrush has an augmented reality connector and phone stand. Attach the connector to the toothbrush, prop up a phone or tablet and open the app to turn brushing into a live, gaming experience. Kids can unlock levels and earn rewards as they defeat monsters. It also gives parents peace of mind by showing exactly where your child brushed and where they missed. 

2. 1-2-3 Grin! Kids Oral Care Set – Grin makes all-natural oral hygiene products for children and adults. Their 1-2-3 Grin! Set is one of our favorite stocking stuffer ideas for kids because it has everything you need to make brushing fun, including a pop-up brushing book with activities to teach kids how to brush and floss and a brushing chart structured like a board game. Have enough toothpaste and toothbrushes? You can also purchase the book and brushing chart separately. 

3. Cocofloss – Normally, kids’ dental floss would be low on the list of exciting oral hygiene oral gifts. Cocofloss is the exception! The dentist-favorite brand makes truly effective floss for kids and adults that’s free of parabens, SLS and PFAs. And it comes in fantastic flavors, including confetti cake! To make your life easier, you may want to opt for the refillable flosser too, which is designed for parents to use on kids ages 4 and under. 

4.Tooth Fairy Mouse – Maileg has the world’s most adorable and whimsical plush mice. The Tooth Fairy Little Mouse is incredibly sweet and includes a cloth bag to hold lost teeth. The brand also sells tin tooth boxes. 

5. Toy Monster + Kids’ Toothpaste Bundle – If you’re going to give your child toothpaste as a Hanukkah or Christmas gift, make it fun with this limited-edition bundle from RiseWell. You’ll get the brand’s kid-friendly, cake batter-flavored toothpaste and a stuffed monster. 

6.Chomps the Dino Toothbrush and Book – Maisonette’s Brushies collection includes finger puppet toothbrushes for babies and toddlers and coordinating books. We love the Chomps the Dino version but they have pig, monkey and whale versions too. 

7. Oral-B Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush for Kids – This is probably the best electric toothbrush for kids because it has a small, child-sized brush head and a bigger handle that gives little hands a good grip. Some kids find that ultrasonic toothbrushes tickle, but this brush’s rotating head works well without feeling weird. Plus, it has a gentle mode especially designed for children’s teeth and gums. And you can use it with Oral-B’s Disney Magic Timer App, allowing kids to brush along with their favorite characters. 

8. A Book About Oral Hygiene – When it comes to stocking stuffer ideas, you can never go wrong with a book. To stick with the oral hygiene theme, encourage a love of reading and taking care of teeth and gums with a book about brushing and flossing. If you want to shop local, Anderson’s Bookshop in Naperville has an excellent selection. 

9.Xylitol Candy – Instead of giving kids regular candy, gift them some xylitol candy instead. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that may help to prevent cavities by targeting cavity-causing bacteria and lowering the pH in the mouth. Xylitol gum will work for older kids who won’t swallow it or get it stuck in their hair. For younger kids, try a product like Zollipops, which are xylitol lollipops.

10. A Cute Toothbrushing Timer – A cute, little two-minute timer for brushing teeth can make kids more enthusiastic about their oral hygiene routine. Uncommon Goods sells a water-resistant turtle timer. Or go for this dual-purpose one with a two-minute toothbrushing timer and a 20-second hand washing timer.

11.Tooth Fairy Kit – This Tooth Fairy Kit from Bonjour Fête will make the process of losing baby teeth a positive one. The kit includes an official record of lost teeth, little envelopes to hold Tooth Fairy payments, receipts and a muslin bag for kids to leave their tooth under their pillow.

12.Montessori Brushing Teeth Model – The Montessori Brushing Teeth Model looks just like a real mouth. It gives toddlers and preschoolers a chance to practice proper brushing technique and learn the importance of good oral hygiene. 

 

Give your child the gift of a healthy smile!

Now that you have plenty of oral hygiene-related, stocking stuffer ideas for kids, what about a gift that will last your child a lifetime? We’re talking about amazing oral health! To keep your child’s smile healthy and bright this holiday season – and year-round – schedule a visit at Innovative Pediatric Dentistry in Naperville today!

At our Naperville pediatric dentistry practice, concerned parents often ask us, “Why are my child’s teeth yellow despite brushing and flossing?” Many times, especially if it’s your child’s newly erupted permanent teeth, it’s not a cause for concern, however, there are instances where treatment could be needed. To give you a better idea of what’s normal and what’s not, here are some of the causes of yellow teeth in kids:

• Erupting Permanent Teeth

If it seems like your child’s permanent teeth are coming in yellow, this is actually completely normal. 

Compared to baby teeth, the permanent teeth have larger nerve canals and more dentin, which is the yellowish protective layer underneath the enamel. When the permanent teeth erupt, the enamel is a bit more transparent at first too, so the yellow can show through. 

Plus, since the permanent teeth erupt right next to those stark white baby teeth, the contrast makes the difference more dramatic. As the enamel calcifies over time, the permanent teeth will look whiter. Once all of the permanent teeth are in, your child’s smile will be nice and uniform. 

• Poor Oral Hygiene

When kids don’t thoroughly brush and floss their teeth, plaque builds up on the enamel. This can lead to a dull or yellow appearance. Having kids floss once daily and brush at least twice a day will prevent plaque from sticking. 

Once plaque hardens into tartar, it can’t be removed at home, so your child’s teeth will still be yellow despite brushing. Tartar has to be eliminated during a professional dental cleaning using special tools. If plaque and tartar are the cause of tooth discoloration, your child’s teeth should be whiter after their cleaning. 

• Foods and Drinks That Stain Teeth

Highly pigmented foods like blueberries and tomato sauce and beverages, such as soda, energy drinks and fruit juice can stain kids’ teeth, making them look yellow. 

To avoid this, have kids rinse their mouth out with water after eating or drinking anything pigmented and be diligent about brushing. Try to serve pigmented foods in moderation and encourage kids to drink water and milk instead of sugary drinks.

If discoloration has already occurred and you’re wondering how to remove the yellow stains from your child’s teeth, talk to your pediatric dentist. We can generally buff away these surface stains during a cleaning.

• Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is another culprit, though only the affected teeth will be discolored. As decay progresses into a cavity, there may be a visible hole or pit in the tooth and brown or black spots. Schedule a visit with your pediatric dentist as soon as possible. The earlier a cavity is treated, the easier, quicker and less expensive treatment will be. 

• Thin or Weak Enamel 

The enamel starts to form on a child’s baby teeth when they’re in the womb. Enamel formation on permanent teeth begins in infancy and continues through early childhood. When the process is disrupted during either period, it can cause enamel defects, such as enamel hypoplasia. With enamel hypoplasia, the enamel is too thin, which exposes more of the dentin and causes teeth to look yellow.

Which teeth are affected by enamel hypoplasia depends on the cause of the disturbance in enamel formation and the timing, so you may notice your child’s baby teeth coming in yellow or it may only occur on a permanent tooth. Usually, only some of the teeth are affected.

The location and severity will determine whether treatment is needed. If the thin enamel is causing sensitivity or putting your child at risk for tooth decay, we may recommend professional fluoride treatment, dental sealants and other measures. In extreme cases, the affected permanent teeth will need to be covered with dental crowns to protect them when your child is older. 

• Certain Antibiotics

Yellow baby teeth from antibiotics is pretty rare these days. However, some antibiotics, namely tetracycline, can stain kids’ teeth if the mother takes them while pregnant or the child takes them before the age of 8. The teeth may start by looking yellow and then, eventually, turn brown. This effect is widely known, so most doctors don’t prescribe these types of antibiotics to young children or pregnant women anymore. 

Can I Whiten My Child’s Teeth?

We don’t usually recommend whitening kids’ teeth. Whitening toothpaste can be too abrasive on their developing enamel and over-the-counter whitening treatments can cause sensitivity and irritate their gum tissue. 

As we mentioned above, many times, a child’s permanent teeth coming in yellow is normal and their teeth will brighten in time. For causes like tooth decay, whitening won’t help either. Instead, bring up any concerns with your Naperville pediatric dentist. 

 

Book an Appointment With a Naperville Kids’ Dentist

If your child is embarrassed by the color of their teeth or you’re worried that discoloration is a sign of a problem, schedule an appointment for your child at Innovative Pediatric Dentistry in Naperville, IL. We’ll perform an exam and find out what’s causing their teeth to look yellow. We can then create a personalized treatment plan and, if needed, discuss safe ways to brighten your child’s smile.

We also want to remind parents that Illinois law requires kids entering kindergarten, second, sixth and ninth grades in public, private and parochial schools to have a dental exam performed by a licensed dentist. Book your back-to-school check-up to have your forms ready for the new school year!

You made it through a few years of teething and things are smooth sailing until you hear a squeaking, grating noise and realize your child is grinding their teeth. Isn’t teeth grinding only for stressed out adults? No, believe it or not, teeth grinding and clenching can strike at any age. In fact, according to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, an estimated 3 out of 10 kids grind their teeth before the age of 5. 

Though the habit is common, is it okay? The team at Innovative Pediatric Dentistry in Naperville will be tackling the subject in this post. 

What is Bruxism?

Repetitive teeth grinding, gnashing and/or clenching is known as bruxism. Awake bruxism happens when a child is awake, while sleep bruxism occurs when your child is sleeping. Sleep bruxism is harder to identify than awake bruxism. This is because most kids don’t know they’re grinding their teeth in sleep, so it might not be until they experience symptoms that you realize anything is going on. 

Why Do Kids Grind Their Teeth?

As for why kids grind their teeth, it depends on your child’s age. In very young kids, teeth grinding is normal and not usually a cause for concern. Toddlers may grind their teeth to combat the discomfort of teething or as a way to explore their mouth. By around age 6, most little ones will stop grinding their teeth on their own. 

Awake bruxism, even in children who are school-aged or older, might not warrant any treatment or cause any issues, though it can be a sign that your child is stressed or anxious. 

But what about sleep bruxism? Why do kids grind their teeth at night? It’s not always possible to pinpoint an exact cause. It seems to run in families, indicating a potential genetic component. Other risk factors for sleep bruxism in kids include:

• Stress and anxiety 
• Misaligned teeth
• Other health conditions, including ADHD and migraines
• Certain medications
• Exposure to second-hand smoke
• Sleep disturbances, such as sleep apnea, snoring and night terrors
• Allergies (a study found evidence suggesting children with allergies are more likely to grind their teeth at night, perhaps as a way to cope with a middle ear disturbance from congestion)

Should I Be Concerned About My Child’s Teeth Grinding?

As we said, teeth grinding in young kids isn’t usually a concern. Unless it’s resulting in other issues, there’s a good chance they’ll grow out of it. If teeth grinding is habitual and your child doesn’t stop around age 6, or they’re experiencing complications from it, then you’ll want to talk with your Naperville pediatric dentist about it. 

Chronic sleep bruxism in children can be an indication that something else is going on that will require treatment. For example, there might be an issue with the development of your child’s teeth, jaw and facial structure that restricts the airway or is causing misaligned teeth that, in turn, leads to grinding and clenching.  

Signs of Bruxism in Kids

Awake bruxism is easy to spot. You’ll hear and see your child clenching and grinding their teeth. They may do it unconsciously, such as when they’re concentrating really hard or feeling frustrated, or they could be aware of it. 

Sleep bruxism in children is harder to pinpoint. Signs that your child is grinding their teeth at night include:

• Grinding Noises – You or someone else in your household might hear squeaking, grinding, gnashing or chewing noises while your child is sleeping. If you suspect your kiddo is grinding their teeth, but you’re not sure, you can check on them in the middle of the night or use a baby monitor to confirm it. 
• Jaw Pain – If your child has a sore jaw in the morning, they’re likely grinding their teeth. The pressure from grinding and clenching puts strain on the jaw and temporomandibular joints (TMJ), potentially leading to pain and clicking and popping noises.
• Teeth Damage – Aggressive or chronic bruxism can damage the teeth and gums. In extreme cases, you may notice that some of your child’s teeth are wearing down. They might also have receding gums, tooth fractures, chips or cracks on the teeth or damaged fillings.
• Sensitive Teeth – Tooth sensitivity is also common in kids who grind their teeth. They can have sensitivity or discomfort while chewing or when enjoying hot or cold foods and drinks. 
• Headaches – When kids grind their teeth at night, that same pressure that causes jaw pain often leads to headaches too. Pain can also radiate to the ear and neck. 

Complications of Teeth Grinding in Kids

Teeth grinding in toddlers or preschoolers, as well as mild awake bruxism at any age, is unlikely to cause complications unless it’s really severe. Chronic sleep bruxism, on the other hand, can cause problems, including:

• Worn tooth enamel
• Fractured or chipped teeth
• Receding gums
• Jaw pain and headaches
• Damaged dental restorations, such as fillings or pediatric dental crowns
• TMJ dysfunction
• Sleep problems 

How to Stop Kids From Grinding Teeth

If your toddler is grinding their teeth, unless you think it’s stress- or anxiety-related, making a concerted effort to get them to stop can often backfire and cause them to do it more frequently as a way to get attention. So, these tips are geared towards children who habitually engage in grinding while sleeping and have symptoms like a sore jaw or headaches:

• Try to Find the Source – Try to find the source of your child’s teeth grinding. If it’s something obvious like allergies that make breathing out of their nose difficult, managing the allergies will go a long way in helping to stop teeth grinding in their sleep. If you can’t pinpoint the cause, talk with your child. Maybe they’re stressed about a test or being teased at school. Once you have an idea of what’s causing it, you and your child can work on a solution together. 
• Teach Your Child Ways to Manage Stress – Stress and teeth grinding go hand in hand. If your child is anxious and stressed, help them find ways to manage it. Things like doing kids’ yoga, getting plenty of exercise, talking about concerns, prioritizing school tasks so they’re not overwhelmed and practicing deep breathing can help reduce your child’s stress. If necessary, reach out to a professional for support. 
• Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine – A bedtime routine can help reduce sleep disturbances, which are tied to teeth grinding in kids, and relieve anxiety and stress by making kids’ feel safe and secure. You may have to experiment with what works for your child, but an example could include, taking a warm bath, brushing and flossing their teeth and then reading a book together. 
• Set the Stage for Quality Sleep – Sleep hygiene is a term for healthy sleep habits. Having good sleep hygiene will increase your child’s quality of sleep and like that relaxing bedtime routine, minimize sleep disturbances and bruxism. Some good rules of thumb include:
• Have your child go to bed at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning.
• Encourage your little one to only use their bed for sleeping and not other activities like homework or playing on a tablet. This helps their brain associate getting in bed with falling asleep.
• Create a comfy, cozy room by making sure it’s cool, dark, quiet and has appropriate bedding for the season. 
• Limit the amount of time spent on electronic devices, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime. 
• Try to get kids to exercise earlier in the day and eat a nutritious diet. 
• Talk to Your Pediatric Dentist – If the above tips don’t help and your child is still grinding in their teeth, schedule a visit with your pediatric dentist. 

Bruxism Treatment for Children

If your child is grinding their teeth in sleep and experiencing complications, treatment could be necessary. While it will depend on the cause of your child’s bruxism and other factors, treatment could include:

• An Oral Device – A custom kids’ mouthguard for grinding teeth, sometimes called a nightguard, fits over your child’s top teeth and cushions against the grinding forces. While a nightguard won’t necessarily stop the behavior, it will prevent the dental issues and jaw pain that can occur. There are boil-and-bite varieties and ones you can order online, however, a custom kids’ mouthguard for teeth grinding created by your dentist will offer the best fit, protection and comfort. 

If your kiddo is having TMJ dysfunction in addition to their teeth grinding, a custom TMJ splint that helps reposition the jaw and prevent friction might be recommended instead. 

• Orthodontic Treatment – For an older child who grinds their teeth because of misalignment, braces or Invisalign® Teen can help to align the teeth and bite and may improve grinding. 

In younger children, if teeth grinding is related to a problem with their craniofacial development, phase 1 orthodontic treatment could be the better route. This is when an orthodontist uses certain appliances to guide jaw growth while your child is still developing. It can be beneficial for opening the airway and making room for the permanent teeth to come in, which will alleviate future misalignment, sleep-disordered breathing problems and the subsequent teeth grinding. 

If that’s the case, as part of the Innovative Dental Partners family, we’re under the same roof as Innovative Orthodontic Centers. Your Naperville pediatric dentist can coordinate care with the board-certified orthodontists at Innovative Orthodontic Centers to help your child get the most comprehensive care. 

• Treatment for Other Underlying Causes – When teeth grinding is because of another health condition or an issue like anxiety that’s interfering with your child’s daily life, schedule a visit with their pediatrician. Treating the underlying problem will often help with bruxism.

 

Looking for the Best Pediatric Dentist in Naperville, IL?

Whether your child is grinding their teeth and you’d like guidance or you’re just in need of a pediatric dentist, Innovative Pediatric Dentistry can help! Our bright, fun practice uses modern technology for safer, more comfortable care. And, we’ve been named best pediatric dentist in Naperville by Naperville Magazine every year since 2008! Schedule your child’s appointment with us today.

“My child’s tooth is loose but won’t come out.” “My child’s baby tooth is not falling out or getting loose at all.” These are some of the concerns that parents bring up with our Naperville pediatric dentist. While it can be tempting to take matters into your own hands and try to pull a stubborn baby tooth, that’s not usually the best course of action. 

The team at Innovative Pediatric Dentistry will be sharing some insight when we cover:

• When do kids start losing teeth?
• Why would a baby tooth not come out?
• What to do if a child’s tooth is loose but won’t come out
• What to do if baby teeth are not falling out at all

When do kids start losing teeth?

The average age for a child to lose their first tooth is between 6 and 7. Kids will continue losing baby teeth until around age 12. That said, these are just averages. Some kids start losing baby teeth a little earlier or later. Usually, this is nothing to worry about. 

However, if a baby tooth falls out before age 5 or no teeth have fallen out after age 7, it is something to bring up with your pediatric dentist. Losing baby teeth prematurely or very late can sometimes result in orthodontic issues. 

Why would a baby tooth not come out?

If a baby tooth won’t come out, it could be because:

• It’s not ready. If it’s around the time a baby tooth is supposed to fall out but it’s not wiggly yet or your child’s tooth is loose but won’t come out, most often, it means it’s not ready. The underlying permanent tooth pushes against the root of the baby tooth, causing the root to dissolve. When this happens, the tooth loosens and falls out. Sometimes this process can take a little while.
• Your kiddo is between ages 8 and 10. Once kids start losing baby teeth, it can seem like the Tooth Fairy is visiting every other day. In fact, the average 8 year old will have lost 8 teeth. While the process starts off fast and furious, it slows down between ages 8 and 10. This lull is normal. Around age 10, kids will lose teeth more frequently again. 
• There isn’t enough room for the permanent tooth because of moderate to severe crowding. The permanent teeth are larger than the primary teeth. If your child’s baby teeth were crowded or they have extra teeth, it can indicate that the situation will get worse as their permanent teeth start to erupt. With moderate to severe crowding, sometimes, there isn’t enough space for the permanent teeth to erupt properly. If they come in sideways or become impacted, they’re not able to push out the baby teeth. 
• Your child has “shark teeth.” If your child’s baby teeth are not falling out and new teeth are coming in, it can be alarming. But this condition, nicknamed “shark teeth,” because sharks have several rows of teeth, is actually fairly common. It can happen if a permanent tooth pushes through in front of, or more commonly, behind a primary tooth. Since it misses the tooth’s root and doesn’t cause it to dissolve, your child’s baby tooth won’t come out. Instead, they’ll temporarily have two rows of teeth. 
• Rarely, the permanent tooth below the baby tooth failed to develop. Congenitally missing teeth are rare, but do happen. This is when the permanent tooth that should be underlying the baby tooth doesn’t develop. With no permanent tooth to push it out, the baby tooth can stay in place indefinitely. 

What to do if a child’s tooth is loose but won’t come out

Should you pull a loose baby tooth? No. It’s best to let the tooth fall out naturally. When a child’s tooth is loose but won’t come out, in all likelihood, it’s just not ready. Pulling a baby tooth prematurely can be painful and cause damage. 

Instead, have your child use their tongue to wiggle their baby tooth as much as possible. You can also encourage them to eat things like raw apples and carrots, which will hasten the process along. Eventually, the tooth will detach on its own and fall out. 

If the tooth is extremely loose and after two weeks of wiggling is still refusing to budge, call your pediatric dentist. We can assess the situation and let you know if you should give the tooth more time or if it needs help from the dentist. If the tooth does need to be removed, our pediatric dentist can do it quickly, painlessly and safely. 

What to do if the baby teeth are not falling out at all

What happens if the baby teeth don’t fall out? It depends. Often, given time, the teeth will eventually shed. Even in the case of those shark teeth we talked about, after the permanent tooth comes in behind the baby tooth, the baby tooth will still usually fall out on its own; it just may take longer. 

If a child’s baby teeth are not falling out and we don’t see any visible reason why, our pediatric dentist might take digital x-rays. An x-ray can show us if tooth loss is delayed by severe crowding, a missing permanent tooth or extra teeth blocking the eruption of permanent teeth. This will let us determine if it’s necessary to extract the baby tooth. 

Another important thing to note is that one of the reasons it’s recommended that kids have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7 is because the orthodontist will evaluate their growth and development and identify issues with the loss or eruption of teeth. 

Some kids can benefit from early orthodontic treatment to guide jaw growth and alleviate crowding. This may help the permanent teeth come in properly, which will also ensure the baby teeth fall out. The good news is, Innovative Orthodontic Centers is under the same roof as our pediatric dental practice. We can easily and conveniently coordinate your child’s care to help their smile take shape.

 

Contact our Naperville Kids’ Dentist

If you’re concerned that your child’s baby tooth won’t come out, schedule a visit at Innovative Pediatric Dentistry in Naperville. Our friendly team and dentist will perform a comprehensive exam and offer personalized guidance to keep your child’s dental development on track.