Casper Children's Dental Blog

A lip tie or tongue tie in a child occurs when the tissue that connects the lip to the gums or the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight or thick, restricting movement. These conditions can impact breastfeeding, speech development, and oral health. Parents often wonder whether these ties will resolve on their own or require intervention. Here’s what to know.

For decades, dentists have recommended fluoride because it strengthens existing tooth enamel and protects smiles against decay. While there is some debate about its overuse and the potential harm it can cause (i.e., fluorosis), many researchers and dental professionals stand by its effectiveness. But when should you start using it to care for your child’s teeth? Keep reading to discover when you can begin to incorporate it into their dental routine and how it will prove beneficial as their smile continues to grow.

Dental insurance can make it much easier to afford biannual dental checkups and other services that your child needs for a healthy smile. However, you may be worried about your insurance plan’s annual maximum putting a limit on how much coverage is available. The good news, though, is that there are actually some plans that don’t come with this drawback. Here’s what you should know when looking for the right insurance plan to cover your child’s dental needs.

Summer is renowned across the country as the season for fun, adventure, and relaxation, but many favorite seasonal activities can be hazardous to your or your child’s dental health. Luckily, there are measures you can take to mitigate these risks so you can keep your child’s smile safe while you enjoy these activities. Here’s a brief list of fun things to do this summer along with a few tips for keeping your teeth in tip-top shape while you enjoy the season.

If you’re a new mother, you may have heard a lot of advice from well-intended family and friends. They might share helpful tips like “sleep when the baby sleeps” or “learn how to do everything one-handed.” Unfortunately, one thing that many parents hear from well-intended bystanders is that it’s normal for breastfeeding to hurt.

It can be incredibly disheartening if you and your infant are facing challenges with nursing, and despite what others may have told you, persistent discomfort is not the norm. The truth is that many feeding issues are often linked to your little one’s oral health. Continue reading to learn more about 3 myths about breastfeeding and how your child’s pediatric dentist can potentially support your efforts!

If your child’s teeth are not straight or they have trouble with their bite, Phase 1 orthodontics may be crucial for their dental health. This method targets these problems in the early years, setting the stage for a better-aligned and healthier smile as they grow. Let’s take a closer look at what Phase 1 orthodontics entails, the benefits it offers, and when it’s usually recommended for young patients.

A child’s teeth start to develop well before birth, but they won’t be visible until they are at least six months old. As the infant gets older, more of these baby teeth will emerge until they have a full set, and they will start to fall out only a few years later to make room for the adult teeth. While you probably remember going through some of this process yourself, it’s a good idea to get reacquainted with it when your little one’s smile is developing. Here are a few facts about your child’s smile to help you know how to best assist them through the process.

Does your child often cringe or hold their cheek after eating ice cream or drinking hot cocoa? Tooth sensitivity is a common conundrum for children that can make their teeth uncomfortable after a change in temperature. As a parent, it’s essential to understand what causes tooth sensitivity in children and how to manage it effectively.

Continue reading to learn more about how sensitive teeth develop and how to relieve some of your child’s discomfort.

Fruit juice can contain many essential vitamins and nutrients to support your little one’s development. However, too much of a good thing can be bad. Fruit contains natural sugars and many products contain added sweeteners, which can wreak havoc on your child’s enamel. With tooth decay more prevalent than childhood asthma, here’s what you need to know about the dental risks of fruit juice.

(more…)

The tooth fairy works hard every night to ensure children across the country receive small treats for losing their teeth. After all, the loss of a baby tooth is a big step towards becoming a grown-up, and children should be excited about advancing in life. Believe it or not, the tooth fairy has taken a more proactive approach in recent years by encouraging children to take good care of their teeth and leaving dental hygiene supplies as gifts. Here are a few fun ways to welcome the tooth fairy while educating your child about the importance of excellent oral care.