It happens all the time: we see a child between the ages of 9 and 18 years old that still really need help with their brushing and flossing routine. They open their mouth and we find moderate to heavy plaque and puffy, tender gums. This puffiness and build up can cause gingivitis, decay and bad breath. You might be thinking: “So, you want me to brush my 11 year olds teeth?!” No, you don’t have to brush their teeth, but we do suggest that you supervise and be involved in a more passive way. Here are some tips:

-Be aware of how often they are brushing. Remember, twice daily brushing is recommended with the night time routine being most important. Not sure if they really brushed? Feel those brush bristles to see if they are wet or dry. If they are dry, chances are they may not have brushed as recently as they told you.

-Be aware of how long their brushing routine lasts. Keep a subtle eye on the clock. If they are brushing for less than 1.5-2 minutes, they may be leaving harmful plaque and build up behind.

-Provide easy tools for flossing like the Reach flosser or floss picks. Keep track of how quickly you replenish the supply.

-Positive reinforcement goes a long way. Remind them of the benefits of brushing and flossing and let them know when they are doing a great job!

Hopefully these tips can make the next check up a happy and healthy one.

According to the Wisconsin Dental Association, an estimated 51 million school hours are missed every year in the US due to dental related illness and disease. These reasons include cavities, toothaches and dental infections. Don’t let your child be a part of this statistic and miss out on important learning time. Take a few simple steps to avoid dental disease by following these simple guidelines.

Always remember that preventative care and early detection is key! Stay on a strict 6 month recall which includes cleaning, exams, fluoride treatment and necessary x-rays. By doing this, we can detect cavities while they are small and repair them before they become painful.

Be aware of the liquid your child consumes. Sipping juice, milk, sport drinks and soda for periods of time between meals increases their chance of getting cavities. Limit these beverages to meal times only or as a special treat. If your toddler is carrying a “sippy cup” with them over an expanded period of time, and taking sips while they play, their mouth is in a state of acidity and high risk that entire time.

Fluoride is your friend! Including fluoridated toothpaste and mouth wash into the oral hygiene routine can be an easy way to keep decay away topically. Enjoying fluoride in a glass or two of water each day can help systemically and help teeth forming under the gum-line grow with strong, healthy enamel. Most local communities have a fluoridated water supply which is monitored and regulated. Not so sure about fluoride? Talk with our dental staff at your next visit for alternative options like xylitol.

It can set your child behind the others when they miss school and it is even more difficult to see them in pain. Keep them healthy and in school and keep their dental visits fun and easy by following these easy guidelines.

You may have received a letter in the mail recently informing you that Dr. Emily Jahimiak has been forced to take a permanent medical leave from dentistry. A recent diagnosis of multiple sclerosis has made dentistry too physically difficult. Here is her message to all of her loyal patients:

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the trust and confidence you have shown in permitting me to take care of your dental needs for the past few years. I will miss all the great patients that I had the privilege of knowing through Elmbrook Family Dental and wish you all the best in the future.” -Emily Jahimiak, DDS

As sad as our team is to be saying goodbye to Dr Emily, we are also thrilled to announce the addition of Dr. Suzanne Tack to our practice. Be on the look out for her smiling face in our office coming in mid-September, 2013. Follow the link below to read a little more about Dr. Tack.

https://www.elmbrookfamilydental.com/meet-us.html#tack