Pediatric Dentist in Norcross Answers 5 Questions Parents Have About Kids’ Oral Health [Video Inside]

As a parent, you want to do everything right for your child, and that includes their teeth. But with so much information out there, it can be hard to know where to start. At Carter-Rockbridge General Dentistry, Dr. Gloria Stingley has been serving families as a pediatric dentist in Norcross for over 30 years. Her practice began as a pediatric dentistry practice, and that foundation in children’s oral health still shapes how she cares for young patients today.

Here is some guidance on the most common questions parents ask about keeping their children’s teeth healthy from the very beginning.

When Should Your Child’s First Visit With a Pediatric Dentist in Norcross Be?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends you book your child’s first dental visit when their first tooth comes in, or no later than their first birthday. At Carter-Rockbridge, Dr. Stingley typically begins seeing new young patients around age 2½, but she makes exceptions for families already established at the practice.

Dr. Stingley often doesn’t charge for those first visits. Mom can hold the baby on her lap, and the dentist can talk about how to maintain those teeth as they’re erupting in the mouth. The takeaway is clear: don’t wait until there’s a problem. Those early visits help your child feel comfortable in the dental chair and build healthy habits.

When Should My Child Begin Using Toothpaste, and How Much?

As soon as your child’s first tooth erupts, you should begin brushing with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste, no larger than the size of a grain of rice. You should also use a soft, infant-sized toothbrush. The goal is to brush twice a day for about 1-2 minutes each time.

Once your child reaches ages 3 to 6, you can increase the amount to a pea-sized amount. At that stage, you should still be doing most of the brushing for them. Young children simply don’t have the coordination to do it effectively on their own. Make sure to direct them to spit out the excess toothpaste rather than swallow it.

How Often Should My Child See the Dentist?

The standard recommendation for most children is to see the dentist every 6 months. Regular checkups allow Dr. Stingley to catch small issues before they become a bigger problem. Frequent visits mean the dentist can identify early cavities or alignment concerns and provide recommendations to set your child on a better track. Depending on your child’s individual oral health, Dr. Stingley may suggest a different schedule.

For kids who might have a higher risk of cavities, orthodontic or developmental problems, or special health needs that impact oral wellness, she may recommend seeing your child every 3 months instead.

Is Thumb-Sucking or Pacifier Use Bad for My Child’s Teeth?

This depends on how old your child is. Thumb-sucking and pacifier use are natural habits for infants and toddlers, and most children stop on their own before they cause any lasting damage. If the habit continues past age 3, it can start to affect the alignment of incoming permanent teeth or the shape of the jaw. Thumb-sucking can especially cause issues around age 5, when adult teeth start coming in. By this point, the suction from prolonged thumb-sucking can contribute to teeth misalignments and bite issues that require orthodontic intervention.

If your child is still thumb-sucking or using a pacifier after age 3, mention it at their next visit. Dr. Stingley will provide recommendations on how to discourage the habit before it creates a more significant issue down the road.

How Can Parents Help Prevent Tooth Decay?

Preventing tooth decay starts at home and continues at the dentist’s office. Here are the basics:

• Start early: Even before those baby teeth start peeking out, keep your baby’s gums clean with an infant toothbrush. As soon as your baby’s first teeth emerge, stick to the twice-a-day, every-day brushing schedule. Start those dental visits early, and stick to routine checkups.
• Use fluoride: This mineral is one of the most effective tools for strengthening the enamel against wear. Fluoride is an active ingredient in toothpaste and is also present in many of Gwinnett County’s water systems. Ask Dr. Stingley about the benefits of fluoride for your child at your next visit.
• Watch the diet: Limit sugary snacks and drinks, especially between meals. Avoid putting anything other than water in a bedtime bottle.

At Carter-Rockbridge General Dentistry, prevention is the foundation of everything Dr. Stingley does. When you choose her as your child’s pediatric dentist, she will help ensure your child’s smile progresses on the right track.

Bring Your Child in for a Free Screening With a Pediatric Dentist in Norcross

Good dental habits start early, and with these recommendations, your child will be set up for healthy, normal oral development. The right dental home makes all the difference. If you’re looking for a pediatric dentist in Norcross, Dr. Stingley and her team are here to make your child’s experience comfortable, educational, and even a little fun.

If you’re ready to get your child started on the right track, come in for a free screening.