Parents face many decisions, even before their baby makes an appearance—but once that bundle of joy arrives, one important choice is whether to use a pacifier. Babies have a natural reflex to suck their thumbs, fingers, pacifiers, or other objects to help them feel more secure, to soothe them, or to lull them to sleep. If you decide your little bundle of joy needs a binky for a bit, Drs. Bargainier, and Zuffi recommends an orthodontic pacifier.
(more…)What’s a Pulpotomy? Pain Relief for Tiny Teeth
November 27, 2021
The pulp is found in the center of each tooth and consists of tissue, nerves, and blood vessels, which work together to provide oxygen and nutrients that keep them healthy and strong. If one or more teeth suffer a traumatic injury or decay, the pulp can become inflamed or infected. When this happens in a child’s primary or baby tooth, your dentists Dr. Barganier, Dr. Zuffi, Dr. Williams, and Dr. McAdams may recommend a pulpotomy.
(more…)Malocclusion: Sometimes It Bites
November 12, 2021
Malocclusion is the dental term for misaligned teeth, a common condition affecting about 200,000 people in the United States every year. Many seek cosmetic solutions to feel better about their smiles, but there are also negative health consequences including pain and discomfort that result from improperly aligned teeth.
(more…)Brushing with Braces: Cleaning Every Nook & Cranny
October 27, 2021
If braces are in your future, or you have just had them placed, you may be wondering just how the heck to work around them when flossing and brushing. We’d love to calm your mind by reminding you those wires and brackets are temporary visitors, hanging out to help correct the bite and achieve a smile anyone would feel confident flashing.
(more…)Why Haven’t My Child’s Permanent Teeth Come In?
October 13, 2021
If your child’s permanent adult teeth haven’t emerged in a timely manner, you may wonder if there is a reason to worry. Carolina Complete Dental would like to share a few possible reasons permanent adult teeth can be delayed.
(more…)Toothbrush Timers Can Make Brushing Fun for Kids!
September 27, 2021
Many parents wonder how to get—and keep—their kids interested in brushing their teeth. A wall chart with stickers may be enough, but some kids get bored more easily than others (especially in today’s digital age).
(more…)Baby Teeth: Folklore & Traditions Around the World
September 13, 2021
What parents do with their children’s baby teeth varies from family to family. Some save them, some throw them away, some make a craft project or a keepsake from them. Recent research is even exploring the possibility of having parents store their children’s baby teeth to preserve mesenchymal stem cell content in the event the child develops cancer or certain other illnesses in their future. Just for fun, Drs. Bargainier, and Zuffi want to discuss some history of baby tooth traditions around the world.
(more…)Xylitol: Is it Safe for Kids?
August 27, 2021
What is Xylitol?
Xylitol is a naturally-occurring substance found in the birch tree and in many fruits and vegetables. Its chemical structure resembles a cross between sugar and alcohol—but it is neither. Xylitol is used as an FDA-approved artificial sweetener that can also assist in the prevention of tooth decay, so Drs. Bargainier, and Zuffi would like to share some information about xylitol’s safety for children.
(more…)Adult Braces: What to Expect at Your First Appointment
August 13, 2021
Orthodontics Aren’t Just Kid Stuff
The use of orthodontic appliances to improve smiles isn’t just for kids and teens anymore. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, about one million Americans and Canadians over the age of 18 wear braces or aligners, and the use of adult orthodontics rose 24 percent between 1989 and 2008.
(more…)What to Expect: Your Child’s First Visit to the Orthodontist
July 27, 2021
If you had to undergo orthodontic treatment as a child or teen, hearing it recommended for your little one might make you wince—we understand! However, we’d like to assure you that just like general dentistry and treatments today, orthodontic care has improved in hopscotch-style leaps and bounds!
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