Where Healthy Smiles Begin
Stephanie Baldwin D.D.S.
Parents
Important Information for Parents
Licensed in Arkansas | 17+ Years of Experience | Locally Owned Business
Licensed in Arkansas13+ Years of ExperienceLocally Owned Business
Be a Well-Informed Parent
The team at Stephanie Baldwin D.D.S. encourages parents like you to ask any questions that you have regarding your child's dental care. Feel free to talk to any of our friendly and knowledgeable staff about your questions and concerns. Call us
today to schedule an appointment!
Check Out Some Of Our Frequently Asked Questions
What should I use to clean my baby's teeth?
Any soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head, preferably one designed specifically for infants, should be used at least twice a day to keep your baby's teeth clean.
When should I take my child to the dentist for the first checkup?
In order to prevent potentially damaging dental problems, your child should see a pediatric dentist when his first tooth appears, or no later than his or her first birthday.
What is the difference between a pediatric dentist and a family dentist?
Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry and were required to undertake an additional two to three years of specialty training following dental school. Pediatric dentists are primary and specialty oral care providers for all infants and children through adolescence.
Are baby teeth really that important to my child?
Primary teeth are very important to your child's health for many reasons. These teeth help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt.
What should I do if my child has a toothache?
First, rinse the irritated area with warm salt water and place a cold compress on your child's face if it is swollen. Give the child over-the-counter children's pain relievers for any pain. See a dentist as soon as possible.
Are thumb sucking and pacifier habits harmful for a child's teeth?
Thumb and pacifier sucking habits are harmless early in life and will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long period. If these habits continue for too long, a mouth appliance may be recommended by your pediatric dentist.
How can I prevent decay caused by nursing?
Avoid nursing children to sleep or putting anything other than water in their bed-time bottle in order to prevent decay. Also, be proactive about using the proper means to brush and floss your child's teeth. Take your child to a pediatric dentist regularly to have his teeth and gums checked.
How often does my child need to see a pediatric dentist?
A checkup once every six months is recommended in order to prevent cavities and other dental problems. However, your pediatric dentist can tell you when and how often your child should visit based on their personal oral health.
Toothpaste: when should we begin using it and how much should we use?
Fluoridated toothpaste should be introduced when a child is two to three years of age. Prior to that, parents should clean the child's teeth with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Children should spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing.
How do I make my child's diet safe for his teeth?
Make sure your child has a balanced diet, including one serving each of fruits and vegetables, bread and cereals, milk and dairy products, and meat, fish, and eggs. Limiting the servings of sugars and starches will also aid in protecting your child's teeth from decay. If you have any questions or need suggestions, our team is always happy to offer advice.
How do I know if my child is getting enough fluoride?
Have your pediatric dentist evaluate the fluoride level of your child's primary source of drinking water. If your child is not getting enough fluoride internally through water, your pediatric dentist may prescribe fluoride supplements.
What can I do to protect my child's teeth during sporting events?
Soft plastic mouthguards can be used to protect a child's teeth, lips, cheeks and gums from sport related injuries. A custom-fitted mouthguard can be developed by your pediatric dentist to provide protection from severe injuries to the head.
What should I do if my child falls and knocks out a permanent tooth?
Try to remain calm. Find the tooth! Next rinse off any debris with a saline solution (eye contacts cleaning solution), water, or milk. Try to reinsert the tooth. If you are unable to reinsert the tooth, put the tooth is the saline solution or milk and contact a dentist immediately for assistance!
How safe are dental X-rays?
There is very little risk in dental X-rays, even for children. Pediatric dentists are especially careful to limit the amount of radiation to which children are exposed. Our office is equipped with digital X-rays.
How can parents help prevent tooth decay?
Parents should take their children to the dentist regularly, follow dentist recommendations for brushing, flossing, and other treatments, and supervise and teach healthy habits to their children. These home treatments, when added to regular dental visits and a balanced diet, will help give your child a lifetime of healthy habits to rely on.
Share On: