7 Warning Signs Your Child May Need a Pediatric Dentist in Dothan AL

Dothan, AL parents learn warning signs and prevention tips for problems needing pediatric dental care

Dr Nathan Pfister

I n Dothan, AL, Dr. Nathan Pfister, Dr. Brian Pfister, and the team at Biodentist Alabama provide pediatric dental care, and care for the entire family. Our compassionate team takes the time to educate children and parents on proper oral care, helping to treat and prevent dental issues. Good oral hygiene is as important for children as it is for adults. Parents need to be aware of warnings of potential problems lurking in their child’s mouth.

Warning signs needing pediatric dental care

For children and adults, a severe toothache that has a gnawing or throbbing pain is a warning sign that something is wrong. Often, an infected tooth is caused by decay. This creates an abscess. Pus caused by the bacteria collects in the mouth causing the area to become painful or sensitive. An infected tooth will not heal on its own. Even if the pain subsides, the underlying issue is still present.

Adults can communicate how they are feeling and where the pain is. Children cannot always explain that something is wrong. If you suspect an issue, watch for these common warning signs of a possible infection, and contact your Dothan, AL dentist immediately for an examination.

Prevent problems with good pediatric dental care

A dark-colored tooth
Sensitivity or pain when eating
Red, swollen gums
Swelling of the jaw or neck
Bad breath
Loss of appetite
Fever

Remember that children, especially toddlers and preschoolers, have trouble communicating their pain. It is important to routinely check your child’s mouth. This helps you catch potential problems early. Children do not have mature immune systems. They cannot fight infections as easily as adults. Tooth problems or infections that are left untreated will spread and worsen. Your child will need dental care.

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Prevent problems with good pediatric dental care

At Biodentist Alabama, we work with families to establish a good home health regimen for children and adults. We can educate parents on proper care of their children’s teeth. For infants, get into the habit of wiping your child’s gums with a soft wet washcloth. No toothpaste is needed, just clean the gums gently using the cloth. Getting your baby used to having his or her mouth cleaned should help when transitioning to a toothbrush later.

As your child’s teeth begin to erupt, you will need to start brushing them. As with adults, children’s teeth should be brushed twice per day, in the morning and before bedtime. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head to gently brush all sides of the teeth. Only a thin smear of fluoride-free toothpaste or small dot is needed. If your child will let you, brush the tongue as well to get rid of bacteria. Floss your child’s teeth daily as well, especially once the teeth begin to touch. Bacteria can easily accumulate in those areas. Replace the toothbrush every three to six months or when the bristles look worn or broken.

When children begin to brush and floss their own teeth, parents still need to check their mouths. This ensures children are following proper habits. It also allows parents to check for potential problems.

Children need to visit the dentist every six months for routine cleanings and examinations. During the early childhood years, these visits set the stage for future dental care. The visits are designed to help the child become comfortable with the dentist, dental team, and the office environment. The child gets acquainted with the dentist, the tools, and the sounds rather than fearing the office. Familiarity is established. There are benefits to seeing a dentist early on for pediatric dental care.

The child becomes familiar with and comfortable with the members of the dental team and the environment.
By developing proper habits early, children are more likely to continue and actively participate in the routines to protect the health of their teeth and gums. Oral health habits are established, which helps pave the path for good oral health practices.
If dental issues do arise whether it is a cavity or trauma to the mouth, your child feels comfortable seeing a familiar face.

Dr. Nathan Pfister and Dr. Brian Pfister are experienced in treating and helping prevent dental issues for patients of all ages. Contact the team at Biodentist Alabama to schedule appointments for the whole family. Call (855) 939-5566.

Dr. Nathan Pfister

Dr. Pfister's passion for non-invasive biologic dentistry began while practicing dentistry in Hawaii and he learned of the power of ozone in dentistry. From Hawaii, Dr. Pfister moved to his hometown of Upland as the protégé of the world-renowned ozone dentist Dr. Bill Domb...

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Dr. Brian Pfister

Dr. Brian Pfister was born and raised in Upland, CA. He attended Brigham Young University-Idaho, graduating with a degree in exercise physiology with a minor in chemistry. From Idaho, Dr. Brian returned to southern California to continue dental training at Western University College of Dental Medicine.

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