Fluorosis

Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour treat patients of all ages. They are highly experienced with all aspects of pediatric dentistry at Southern Cross Dental, located in Colorado Springs, CO. This includes the condition known as Fluorosis. When exposed to a high volume of the mineral Fluoride, children develop thin and faint white streaks on the teeth. Though it isn’t harmful, it does change the teeth’s appearance. We recommend you schedule an appointment right away.

 

Before continuing, it’s important to understand that fluorosis isn’t dangerous or a bad thing. Once a child reaches a certain age, their risk of developing it disappears. That’s because only teeth growing under the surface are at risk. Fluoride is a naturally occurring substance found in our water supply. It helps our teeth stay clean and healthy! The only reason a dental examination is recommended is to determine that your child is getting the appropriate amount of fluoride.

 

One of the best ways to minimize a child’s contact with fluoride is through breastfeeding. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding from infancy to three-year-olds. Breastmilk naturally contains the necessary nutritional elements. For many types of baby formula, water is a required ingredient. If you recall, water is the primary source of fluoride for infants. It’s one of the many reasons why breastfeeding is the approved feeding method. Once your child’s teeth come in, you’ll need to start brushing them. Just be careful with the amount of toothpaste used. Never utilize more than a grain of rice worth.

 

Children between the ages of three to eight-years-old need to brush at least twice a day. Neglecting your child’s daily dental care is a guarantee that they’ll develop cavities or gum disease. Pay close attention to how much toothpaste is used. Children of this age shouldn’t use more than a pea-sized amount. Besides water, dental products like toothpaste are the main source of fluoride. If your child uses too much toothpaste or swallows it, this puts them at risk of Fluorosis. This is the same reason children below the age of six shouldn’t use mouthwash.

 

If you’re worried that your child’s developing Fluorosis, contact Southern Cross Dental right away. We can help you determine the right amount of fluoride for your child. To schedule an appointment with Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour, visit their website or call 719-471-1717.

Flossing With Braces

When it comes to dental appointments, there is one question everyone fears: how much have you been flossing? The answer should be at least once a day! This is especially true when you have braces. Braces make it harder to do certain tasks, but it shouldn’t with flossing. Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour of Southern Cross Dental suggest a handful of dental appliances to keep your braces clean. Learn more by contacting our office in Colorado Springs, CO.

 

Braces are a great way to create a winning smile. That’s why it’s important to keep them clean! Your braces give bacteria unique areas to grow and multiply. Food often gets stuck in these spots, attracting even more germs. Thus, flossing is even more of a necessity.

 

The most important tool in your orthodontic care kit is floss threaders. These small dental devices move floss under the orthodontic wire. Once it is in place, flossing can occur as normal. These are inexpensive and can be found at most grocery stores. It’s well worth the provided cavity prevention. Another great option is floss picks. These almost look like a small plastic prong. Between the two forks is a line of floss. The floss picks are small enough to circumvent the wire. Push the floss between your two teeth to resume business as normal. Lastly, waterpiks are an additional option. These are almost identical to tools found in your local dental office. Waterpiks spray a steady stream of water at your teeth, knocking loose any debris. They come with extra tools for orthodontic cleanings.

 

Although the act of flossing is itself important, you must make sure you’re doing it right. The flossing technique is necessary for success. Start by taking out about 18 inches of floss from the packaging. Using a floss threader, bring the floss to your teeth. Wrap the floss around your middle fingers. Make a “C” shape around the tooth. Carefully move the floss up and down, rubbing the gums clean.

 

Southern Cross Dental is located in Colorado Springs, CO. To schedule an appointment with Drs. Navid and Faranak Rahimpour, visit their website or call 719-471-1717.