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Dental One Associates launches new pediatric specialty department

Get ready, get set, grab your crayons and color. Dental One Associates in Columbia is holding a coloring contest for kids ages 12 and under. The contest is to celebrate the opening of Dental One Associates’ new pediatric specialty department, Rocket Dental. Rocket Dental is an outer space-themed, kid-friendly practice that caters specifically to children’s dental care needs.

One winner from each of three specific age ranges will receive a grand prize: an EDU Science Astro-Gazer-70 Telescope. The staff of Dental One Associates will choose the winners.

The age categories are:

• 4 years old and under
• 5 to 8
• 9 to 12

In addition, every child who turns in a coloring sheet and completes an exam and cleaning will be eligible to receive a special prize. To participate in the contest, pick up a coloring sheet at: Dental One Associates, 10630 Little Patuxent Parkway, Suite 410, Columbia, MD 21044, and turn it in to the office by May 20.

Why children should visit a dentist at an early age

Kids have unique needs as their teeth and jaws are developing, and depending on the patient’s age, most visits start with a gentle but thorough examination of the teeth, jaws, bite, gums and oral tissues to monitor growth and development and observe any problem areas. If indicated, a gentle cleaning will include polishing the teeth and removing any plaque, tartar build-up and stains. Dentists may discuss the options of X-rays, fluoride or other treatments for pediatric dental care. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association and Academy of General Dentistry recommend most children have their first dental visit around their first birthday. This is an ideal time for dentists to carefully examine the development of a child’s mouth and safeguard against problems such as baby bottle tooth decay, teething irritations, gum disease and prolonged thumb sucking. Also, by starting at a very young age, children are far less likely to develop any fear or apprehension about dental visits.

About Dental One Associates and Rocket Dental

The doctors and staff of Dental One Associates and Rocket Dental are committed to providing thoughtful, caring and ethical dental care for infants, children, adolescents, persons with special needs and adults. Pediatric dentists are board-certified specialists, who have two years of additional training beyond dental school, and specialize in providing a comfortable and open environment to their pediatric patients and parents. Pediatric dental specialists use language both kids and parents can understand to explain each step of treatment. Rocket Dental is a fun, kid-friendly practice and the staff help alleviate any anxiety over dental treatment so patients grow up with a positive attitude towards their dental health.

If you’re pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you’ve got a lot to think about. Your gums may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but don’t neglect your oral health during this exciting time.

The rise of hormones during pregnancy can leave teeth and gums sensitive and more susceptible to tooth decay and gum infections. Developing gingivitis is very common among pregnant women and serious untreated cases can develop into periodontal disease. Severe periodontal disease in expectant mothers has been directly linked to preterm birth, low birth weight and, in very rare cases, stillbirth.

Periodontal disease attacks the tissues and bones supporting the teeth, leaving sores that allow the bacteria to enter the blood stream and move throughout the body. In pregnant women, the bacteria can reach the placenta, where the developing baby does not have an immune system capable of fighting off this disease. Signs of gum disease can include red, swollen, tender gums; gums that have receded; bad breath and loose teeth.

All pregnant women should brush and floss every day and receive at least two thorough dental cleanings during pregnancy in order to maintain good oral hygiene and avoid potential problems. Please contact us if you are interested in more information about prevention and treatment of gum disease or dental care before, during and after your pregnancy.

You may have heard that drinking an occasional glass of red wine can diminish your risk of cardiovascular disease, but did you know it may also enhance your oral health? Studies have shown that drinking wine in moderation causes antibacterial activity in the mouth that can help prevent tooth decay and loss of tooth enamel minerals.

Tooth decay occurs when sugar reacts with the bacteria in plaque and attacks the surface of your teeth, eroding tooth enamel. If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to pain, infection and tooth loss. You can remove bacteria from tooth enamel and prevent cavities by brushing and flossing daily, as well as using an oral mouthwash on a regular basis. And occasionally indulging in a glass of red wine!

Regular dental cleanings also assist in treatment and prevention of cavities. Call us today to schedule your next appointment or to find out more about cavity prevention.