Dr. R. James Richardson II presents information on proper dental care for school aged children. Key points include: - A child's first dental visit should be by age one or when the first tooth erupts to establish good prevention habits. Many children seen at ages 3-5 already had cavities. - Baby teeth are important for nutrition, speech development, and proper alignment of permanent teeth. - Cavities are transmissible and can be prevented by brushing twice daily, flossing daily, limiting sugary foods and drinks, and regular dental visits. - Bad breath in children is usually due to tooth decay, gingivitis or periodontitis and can be addressed by brushing the tongue.

1. Presented by:
Dr. R. James Richardson II
“Pediatric Dentistry”
910 S. Washburn Ave. Ste B.
Corona, CA 92882
951-735-2011
Proper Dental Care
for the School Aged
Child!
www.babyteethdoc.com

2. First Dental Visit...
Did you know: A child's first dental visit should occur by
age one or by the time the first tooth erupts.
Why: To begin a thorough dental prevention program and
to establish a dental home because plaque begins
forming on the very first day a tooth erupts.
But: Did you know until just recently pediatricians were
telling parents to wait until their child was 3 years old or
even older?! Many children seen around 3-5 years old
already had cavities that needed treatment.
It’s never too late… Corona-Norco USD now has parents
fill out a cavity clearance form before the school year
commences… We would be happy to complete a form
for you after completing your child’s comprehensive
dental exam.

3. They're not “just” baby teeth...
•Needed for good nutrition
•Spacing for their permanent teeth, and guides
for proper eruption
•Proper speech development

4. All about cavities...
•Dental Caries (cavities), are transmissible
from parent to child, child to child. Therefore
please discourage children from sharing
straws, utensils at school/home.
•Bacterial by products called acids dissolve the
enamel/structures of the tooth forming the
cavity.
•Loss of tooth structure, pain, systemic
infections; disruption of normal
activity, eating dysfunction, growth delay; are
some possible side effects.

5. How to Prevent Problems:
1. Brush after breakfast and before bed
2. Floss at least once a day
3. See your pediatric dentist every six
months for a professional cleaning and
fluoride application.
4. Limit milk and sugary liquids to only
meal times and never at snack times.
5. Eat healthy foods and snacks low in
carbs and sugar. Stay away from
packing lunches with
cookies, crackers, gummy like snacks or
sticky foods like raisins.

6. Bad Breath in Children
It’s not uncommon for a child to have bad breath. It’s usually
caused by tooth decay, gingivitis, or periodontitis.
Why does it smell? It’s generally caused by bacteria that emit
volatile sulfur compounds.
The easy fix:
Your child’s tongue can be a source of bad breath. The tongue traps
food and germs. When monitoring their brushing, kids should also be
encouraged to brush their tongue. Additionally tongue scrapers can
be useful in removing food particles and germs.
Other causes of bad breath to be aware of: Postnasal
drip, sinus infections and colds, along with more serious tonsillar
problems, respiratory illnesses can also cause bad breath.
*If your child is experiencing any of these
problems, please consult your pediatrician.

7. Dental Emergencies at School
KNOCKED OUT (AVULSED) PERMANENT TOOTH
Do not brush or scrub the tooth and do not touch the root.
Gently rinse the tooth under running water. If possible, try to
replace the tooth in its socket and hold it there with a clean
washcloth or gauze. If you cannot replace the tooth, place it in
milk, saliva or cool water. In an effort to save the tooth, the child
should see a dentist within 30 minutes.
SEVERE HEAD OR JAW TRAUMA
Any blow to the head can be life threatening; go to the
nearest emergency room.
FRACTURED OR CHIPPED TOOTH
Rinse gently with warm water to remove debris. (The child
should avoid hot or cold food and liquids as well as sticky or
chewy foods.) If there is swelling, apply ice packs. The child
should see their dentist as soon as possible, as quick action
can avoid infection or complex treatment and can save the
tooth. Bring the tooth fragment if possible.

8. We love kids...
We believe that if we earn your child's respect
and trust through positive feedback and
reward systems, they will have a lifetime
positive feeling about their dental care.
If you have questions or concerns
after watching this informative
presentation, one of our friendly
staff members would be happy to
help answer your questions.
www.babyteethdoc.com
951-735-2011