FAQs | London Little Bites Dentistry

Your Guide for Kids’ Dental Health

Welcome to the London Little Bites Dentistry FAQ page! We are dedicated to educating and empowering kids and parents about dental health. Below, you will find answers to some of the most common questions we receive.

Do not see your question here? Schedule an appointment to talk to Dr. Lee or contact our team for more information about preparing for your next visit.

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What is a pediatric dentist?

A pediatric dentist is a specialist in children’s oral health. After dental school, they undergo 2 to 3 years of additional training to focus entirely on treating children. Pediatric dentists treat infants, children, and adolescents, including those with special health needs.

Why is it important to care for baby teeth?

Baby teeth are crucial for several reasons:

They help with biting and chewing, which is essential for good nutrition and overall health.
They guide permanent teeth into the correct positions.
They help with speech development.
They support lip and facial features for a pleasant smile.

Untreated cavities in baby teeth can lead to pain and discomfort, infections, and problems with adult teeth. Therefore, caring for and fixing decayed or damaged baby teeth is essential.

What if my child needs braces?

While we cannot predict if a child will need braces, space between teeth is a favourable sign. If your child has crowded teeth, they might need orthodontic intervention.

Regular check-ups allow us to monitor and address potential orthodontic issues early. This may make future treatment easier and shorter. A referral to an orthodontist may be necessary.

When should I start to care for my child’s teeth?

Start dental care immediately after your child’s first feeding. We recommend cleaning their gums with a moist washcloth to prevent bacteria build-up. Once teeth erupt, use a toothbrush with soft bristles and, if the dentist recommends, toothpaste.

Can children get gum disease?

Children can develop gingivitis and gum disease, starting at almost any age. Symptoms might include bleeding after brushing, swollen gums and/or bad breath. Sometimes, there are no noticeable symptoms, making regular dental care crucial.

Do I need to floss my child’s teeth?

Flossing is essential when there is little space between your child’s teeth. It helps disturb bacteria living between the teeth that a brush cannot reach, preventing tooth decay (cavities). Starting early makes it easier for children to incorporate flossing as a lifelong habit.

Why do you take X-rays, and are they safe for kids?

X-rays are necessary to detect cavities and diagnose missing or extra teeth that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Digital x-rays are much safer now than old paper ones. Pediatric Dentists will still limit a child’s exposure to radiation carefully.

What should I do if my child bumps or injures a tooth?

Mouth injuries are common as children learn to walk and play sports. If your child injures a tooth, see a dentist as soon as possible. The outcome of some injuries are time-dependent. Follow-up care is crucial to monitor changes and provide proper treatment. Custom mouthguards can help prevent injuries during sports.

If you have more questions, contact us at London Little Bites Dentistry. We are here to help you and your child maintain healthy, happy smiles.

How can I help my child prepare for their first visit?

To help your child feel more comfortable, talk to them about what to expect. Depending on their age, you can read a children’s book about visiting the dentist or explain it yourself. We recommend telling kids the key information, like:

The dentist will count and brush your teeth.
The dentist might take pictures of your teeth with a camera.

We will also engage with your child during their visit, speaking on their level and giving them choices to help make the experience fun and informative.