Dental Info

Did you know that sports-related injuries are the leading cause of emergency room visits for children and teenagers between the ages of 12-17? For children between the ages of 5-14, recreational activities (e.g., riding a bike) account for an estimated 3.2 million emergency room visits.  With statistics like these, it’s no wonder parents want to find ways to keep their children safe while they play, and when you learn that the most commonly injured areas are to the face, head, eyes, and mouth, preventive wear like helmets and mouthguards become even more important! Don’t Leave Home Without It The American Dental Association recommends mouthguards for many sports and recreational activities that you might not think would require a mouthguard, so it’s important to do your research and give your child the best protection available! If you’re wondering whether your child should be wearing one, don’t hesitate to contact Harp Pediatric Dentistry today. Dr. Mark Dawoud loves fitti...

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) , at least 40 Americans die from prescription opioid overdoses every day. As the opioid crisis grows, so does our expanded public knowledge—such as the realization that addiction to this family of drugs often begins with an innocent prescription . Many teens first experience opioids when a dentist prescribes them to control the pain of wisdom tooth extraction , root canal treatment, or other oral surgery . While legitimate, this initial exposure increases the likelihood of future opioid addiction by 33%. Teens are also prone to opioid abuse due to the fact that the prefrontal cortex region of the brain—the portion that manages reason and impulse control—is not fully developed until reaching the early- to mid-20s. Dr. Mark Dawoud wants your child’s dental care to be effective, comfortable, and above all—safe. If you have any concerns about dental surgery and your teen or you’re just looking for a kind, knowledgeable d...

In this blog article, Dr. Mark Dawoud discusses Social Stories and how they help provide emotional support to autistic kids with the goal of improving their dental (and other) experiences. A social story about going to the dentist follows specific criteria and story elements to reinforce a safe, detailed description of a dental visit in a way that is both meaningful and comfortable for children with autism or related challenges. This short story tool outlines the relevant social cues and common responses when visiting Harp Pediatric Dentistry for an appointment. The story also explains what happens in that situation and why those things occur. The physical form social stories take can vary. Some are simple verbal messages that you’ll share with your child as you would any other story. Some are printed materials with or without drawings or photos, while others may be in video form.    We’d love to help your child learn about their health and good oral hygiene habits. If...

Every kid feels uncomfortable in social situations sometimes, especially when they feel they “look different”—and studies show the #1 reason kids are bullied for their appearance is the way their teeth look. Bullies sense this discomfort and annoy, anger, and confuse kids who already feel vulnerable—and if the child being teased is openly reactive, the bullies may choose to step up their efforts.  Dr. Mark Dawoud of Harp Pediatric Dentistry would like to share some guidelines for positive self-esteem that our pediatric patients have found helpful. Parents can share these skills, which may help with more than just feelings about their teeth! Effort : Suggest kids take extra care with their appearance to help them approach situations with more confidence—and remind them they are worth the effort! Assertion : Encourage kids to be polite but direct. Consider ways they’ve answered past questions, and prepare to respond to things that might come up again—and to look mean kids strai...

Some schools require a back-to-school dental visit , but even if yours doesn’t, right before school starts is a good time to schedule one of your child’s regular checkups. Dr. Mark Dawoud can take care of any problems so your child won’t have to miss class after school starts, and if oral hygiene routines got a little lax over the summer, Harp Pediatric Dentistry can help get kids back on track. Here are a few questions to ask at your child’s appointment: How is my child’s overall dental health? Will my child get a cleaning today?  Does my child need an x-ray? Do you recommend sealants ? Can you check my child’s mouthguard ? These questions cover all the bases for general dental health and safety. A mouthguard will be checked for wear, tear and fit in case a replacement will be needed, while sealants can help prevent cavities in permanent molars. A professional cleaning picks up where brushing and flossing leave off to give your child a nice bright smile to begin their...

Dr. Mark Dawoud wants to tackle the issue of babies and water intake in today’s blog. Of course, water is the healthiest beverage available for kids and adults, particularly when it comes to oral hygiene , but in babies less than six months of age, water is a no-no. Until babies are six months old, they have a liquid diet of formula or breast milk. Both of those are made up of 80-90% water, providing plenty of hydration and nutrition as long as they remain undiluted. Water intake for infants is detrimental because it makes them feel full, interfering with proper nutrient intake and healthy weight gain. Once a baby is six months old, they can have small sips (a few tablespoons) of water, but caregivers should still use caution until kids are at least a year old. At that time, it is safe to give a quarter- to half-cup of water to your little one because they will be eating solid food. Whether your baby is breastfed, bottle-fed, or has graduated to solids, their gums and new teeth sh...

The upper teeth formed along the maxillary jawbone are called “ maxillary teeth ” and include the top incisors, molars, premolars, and canines. Dr. Mark Dawoud shares more information about maxillary teeth below. Understanding the role of the upper teeth and caring for them properly is important in the fight against bacteria and infection in gum tissues and upper sinus cavities. Most maxillary teeth play specific roles in eating and digesting food, functioning as a set of silverware to break it down. Because maxillary teeth are so close to maxillary sinus cavities, it is easy to confuse a sinus infection with an infected tooth . If you visit Harp Pediatric Dentistry complaining of pain, they will determine which infection is present and either provide treatment or send you to your general physician. If you have more questions about your child’s maxillary teeth—or ANY of their teeth— get in touch with us today ! The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for profes...

You may think of our team at Harp Pediatric Dentistry as part of your child’s defensive line keeping them safe from gum disease and tooth decay, but we’re also myth busters! You’ve probably heard one of the most common misconceptions we have to challenge: dentistry isn’t important until after children lose their baby teeth. The truth is that oral health routines should be developed right from the beginning, and visiting the dentist is a foundational part of creating healthy habits . From the beginning? That’s right! There are tips you’ll want to follow as your little one’s smile forms and grows, and around the time you’re celebrating their first birthday, you’ll want to schedule their first dental visit . For an overview of why early introductions are crucial and what you can do to keep them on the right track before this milestone, we invite you to come to see us! If you have any questions or you’d like to schedule a visit with Palm Harbor dentist, Dr. Mark Dawoud to get your kid...

When you’ve got your child’s first dental visit noted on the calendar, you might feel more anxious than they do as you approach the big day. At Harp Pediatric Dentistry, we want to help both of you relax and see there’s nothing to fear about having your smile cared for. Our team is kind and gentle, and though our technology might seem intimidating, it’s all geared toward increasing comfort while we get a clear picture of the condition of your little one’s oral health. Knowledge is Power We think one of the main reasons visiting the dentist can seem scary is because of the unknown. If you know more about what to expect, it’s easier to get comfortable in the chair! We want you and your young one to be informed and as prepared as possible, so we’re sharing this list of children’s books you can read together before we have the pleasure of sharing smiles with you. Do you and your child have a favorite children’s book about going to the dentist? We’d love to hear about it! Contact us ...

Today, Dr. Mark Dawoud of Palm Harbor would like to discuss the unique dental characteristics of those with Down Syndrome . First teeth may arrive later . Children who have Down syndrome can get their first teeth anywhere from 12 to 24 months of age; they may not have a complete set of baby teeth until age 4 or 5. The eruption of front permanent teeth and 6-year-old permanent molars may also be delayed until 8-9 years of age—and it’s not unusual for any or all of these teeth to show up in a different order than anticipated. Teeth and tongue attributes are different. People with Down syndrome have teeth that are smaller than usual—their tooth roots may even be shorter than those of the average population. Another marker of Down syndrome is a small upper jaw, which can cause a misaligned bite and mouths that do not comfortably accommodate their tongues. Gum disease   tends to be more prevalent in people that have Down syndrome. An impaired immune system is present in people who...

Today, Dr. Mark Dawoud of Harp Pediatric Dentistry wants to give teens the bottom line about tobacco use: there is no such thing as a “safe” or “safer” tobacco product . Every tobacco product contains nicotine in varying amounts—and not only is nicotine addictive, but it can also harm the brain. (Many people don’t realize the brain continues developing until the mid-20s or even early-30s.) Cigarettes are usually made of tobacco and chemical additives in a paper casing. Inhaled smoke from a lit cigarette contains more than 7,000 harmful chemicals; at least 70 of them are linked to cancer. Smoking cigarettes damages almost every organ of the body and leads to diseases like oral cancer and lung cancer, heart disease and stroke. The “vaping” of e-cigarettes has become increasingly popular in recent years. These devices heat liquid into an aerosol that is then inhaled by the user. Many believe this aerosol is innocuous, but it actually contains many chemicals that are unsafe to breat...

If your child loses a tooth too soon or needs a baby tooth extracted due to decay, Dr. Mark Dawoud may recommend space maintainers to support their dental health. Space maintainers are custom-made acrylic or metal dental appliances that can either be removable or cemented into the mouth. Their purpose is to keep the space open for the future permanent tooth or teeth. Baby teeth are essential to the development of permanent teeth, jawbones and muscles, which guide those adult teeth into the place absent baby teeth once were. If there is no space for permanent teeth to grow, teeth can shift drastically enough for orthodontics to be needed. Not every child with premature baby tooth loss needs space maintainers, but a consultation with Harp Pediatric Dentistry is advisable to see if a space maintainer is the best solution. Your Palm Harbor pediatric dentist can also advise you about best practices for eating habits and oral hygiene for fixed space maintainers. Your child should be ...

The Americans with Disabilities Act defines disability as a “physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.” (Specific examples of major life activities addressed by the ADA include functions such as caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing and learning.) Disabilities may be congenital (present from birth) or develop later in life. If your child is living with a disability, you know how deeply important access to quality, compassionate medical care is, and that includes oral healthcare . At Harp Pediatric Dentistry , we want to help every person we treat develop and maintain a healthy, happy smile, and we believe being inclusive of children with special needs is an essential part of this mission. There is much to be considered when customizing care for individuals with special needs , from ramps, entryways, office furniture, space, and atmosphere, to the technology we use and the amount...

Baby teeth are important because they save space in the mouth for eventual adult teeth, in addition to helping kids learn to speak, bite, and chew properly. Baby teeth are temporary, but they do need to be functional for quite some time. First teeth appear around six months, while the last baby molars don’t fall out until 12 to 13 years of age. Keeping baby teeth healthy and intact increases the likelihood that adult teeth will appear in favorable positions, reducing the chances of future orthodontic treatment. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics , baby teeth have thinner enamel and a greater percentage of inner pulp that lies closer to the tooth surface. Due to these factors, Dr. Mark Dawoud will recommend the quick repair of small cavities in baby teeth with fillings as a proactive measure against more complex future treatment. If a severely compromised baby tooth is unlikely to be restored successfully using other filling materials, the American Academy of Pediatric D...

Factors such as a child’s age, level of anxiety, developmental issues, and the length of treatment needed are all considered when hospital dentistry is recommended .  There are times when a patient must be unconscious for safe completion of a dental procedure. Some examples are: Procedures that take longer than usual, or more than one procedure being performed on the same day Medical condition, disability, or young age that makes extended treatment duration difficult Complicated procedures that would make pain intolerable if conscious Your child will ask you questions about the hospital and may be apprehensive. Keep the language you use simple, choosing your words with care. Avoid words like “cut”, “needle”, “shot”, and “sew” It may help to say that mouths sometimes have to be fixed in the hospital and that other kids just like them have to have their mouths fixed in the hospital sometimes, too It may take your child a few days to take in all the information, and they ...

Today’s families seem to be busier than they were in the past—lots of homework, extracurricular activities, and hopefully, some quality time spent with the family. Here are a few ideas from Dr. Mark Dawoud to make consistent oral hygiene a little more convenient: Brushing teeth in the shower : as hard as it is to get your teenager out the door for school, this just may work—even though it probably won’t save water! And speaking of water… Water bottles everywhere : in backpacks, purses, and cars. Anything you or your child drinks that isn’t water—in other words, any liquid that tastes good—is either acidic or will turn into acid, which causes tooth decay . Teach kids to swish and spit with water after food and non-water beverages. Gum with xylitol for a treat : Xylitol has been shown to prevent cavities. Read those labels, you may be pleasantly surprised! Dental travel kits for the car : fill them with water, extra toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, healthy snacks, and reusable str...

To binky or not to binky? Pacifier use for infants has been a subject of debate as long as they’ve been around. Dr. Mark Dawoud shares some pros and cons below. Pros Pacifiers can soothe a fussy baby. Whether your child has a strong sucking reflex or has difficulty falling asleep, a pacifier can be an effective step towards entering Dreamland. (Unfortunately, sleeping through the night is not affected by pacifier use.) Pacifiers are distracting. If the baby has to have a shot, a binky can help to forget the poke. Pacifiers can reduce SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) risk at naptime and bedtime. If breastfeeding, wait until the baby is 3-4 weeks old and you’ve got a regular nursing routine. Cons Pacifiers may increase ear-infection risk. However, babies 0-6 months old are at the highest risk of SIDS and the lowest risk of ear infection, which is the age babies usually want a binky most. Prolonged pacifier use can lead to dental problems. Harp Pediatric Dentistry ...

A child’s happy, healthy smile is a source of pride and joy for parents—and dentists, too! For this reason, you’ll likely spend a good deal of time helping them develop superb oral hygiene routines to ensure they keep their teeth for life. When you’re just getting started, you may have a lot of questions. We recommend bringing your baby into the dentist as soon as their first tooth emerges, and we can show you how to care for their smiles as they grow and change including brushing and flossing techniques, fluoride, and more. Looking for more guidance? If you have any questions or you’d like to schedule a visit for your little one to see Palm Harbor pediatric dentist Dr. Mark Dawoud at Harp Pediatric Dentistry , contact us today! The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions. The post Is My Child’s...

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is an antibiotic topical liquid solution brushed onto teeth to halt the progression of tooth decay. Research has shown the effectiveness of SDF in cavity prevention and arrest, and it has been used safely and successfully worldwide with patients of all age groups. Harp Pediatric Dentistry uses silver diamine fluoride to help our patients alleviate and battle tooth decay in a noninvasive, affordable way. Read on to learn more about SDF and what it can do for you or your child’s oral health! What is Silver Diamine Fluoride? Silver diamine fluoride combines fluoride to promote mineralization, silver to act as a microbial, and ammonia to stabilize the high-concentration solution—so the silver kills bacteria while fluoride prevents further breakdown of the tooth structure. Since it is applied topically with a brush, it requires minimal disruption of the natural tooth—meaning no drills or fillings ! Future dental restoration will almost always be necessary, ...

One of the wonderful things about orthodontic treatment is that it can improve both your oral health and smile confidence at just about any age! This might lead you to believe there’s no need for children or adolescents to have to go through what might seem like a complicated intervention, but there are reasons you may see orthodontic treatment taking place sooner rather than later. Palm Harbor pediatric dentist Dr. Mark Dawoud would like to let friends and neighbors know if the reasons are valid, so buckle your brackets and join us for this cruise through early orthodontic treatment! Brace for Impact! If your child visits the orthodontist at the age of 7 as recommended by The American Association of Orthodontists, you’ll be told whether or not orthodontia is forecasted in their future. We know they’re still growing, but 7 years old is the typical age for their upper permanent teeth to have erupted, which is helpful for the establishment of their bite. Your child’s orthodontist wi...