Oral Cancer Awareness Week – Protecting Our Kids From An Early Age

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and this month our experienced and compassionate team at Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry aims to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of early detection and preventative care for children.

Oral Cancer Awareness Week - Protecting Our Kids From An Early Age

Did you know that oral cancer is the sixth most common cancer worldwide? It can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or lifestyle. That’s why it’s essential to be aware of the early signs of oral cancer. April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, and this month our experienced and compassionate team at Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry aims to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of early detection and preventative care for children.
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Early Signs Of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat. Here are some of the early signs of oral cancer that you should be aware of:
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Sores or ulcers that do not heal: If you notice any sores or ulcers in your mouth that do not heal after a few days, it is essential to get them checked by a dentist

Red or white patches: Red or white patches in the mouth or on the lips that do not go away after a few weeks can be a sign of oral cancer.

Swelling or lumps: If you notice any lumps or swelling in your mouth, tongue, or neck, it could be a sign of oral cancer.

Numbness or tingling: Numbness or tingling in the mouth, tongue, or lips could be a sign of oral cancer.

Difficulty swallowing: If you experience difficulty swallowing or feel like something is stuck in your throat, it could be a sign of oral cancer.

Chronic sore throat or hoarseness: If you have a chronic sore throat or hoarseness that lasts for more than a few weeks, it’s important to see a dentist or doctor.

While oral cancer is more common in adults, it can also affect children. It’s important to keep an eye out for early signs of oral cancer in children and take steps to prevent it.

Tips For Preventing Oral Cancer In Children

Here are 4 tips for preventing oral cancer in children:
  1. Encourage healthy habits: Encourage your children to maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and avoid tobacco products.
  2. Practice good oral hygiene: Teach your children to brush their teeth twice a day, floss regularly, and visit the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
  3. Protect against sun damage: Encourage your children to wear a hat and use sunscreen when they are outside to protect against sun damage to the lips and mouth.
  4. Watch for early signs: Be aware of any changes in your child’s mouth, such as sores that don’t heal, lumps or swelling, or persistent pain or discomfort.
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Oral Cancer Prevention & Pediatric Dentistry In Kenmore, Washington

If you notice any of these signs in your child, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with a dentist or doctor as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment of oral cancer can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

At Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry, we are dedicated to helping children maintain healthy teeth and gums and providing parents with the resources they need to keep their children healthy. If you have any concerns about your child’s oral health, please do not hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment.

Using Nitrous Oxide in Pediatric Dentistry: A Safe and Effective Solution for Children’s Dental Treatment

Dental treatments can be a scary experience for children, and it can be challenging for parents to find ways to make the experience less stressful. One solution that many pediatric dentists use is nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas.

Using Nitrous Oxide in Pediatric Dentistry: A Safe and Effective Solution for Children's Dental Treatment

Dental treatments can be a scary experience for children, and it can be challenging for parents to find ways to make the experience less stressful. One solution that many pediatric dentists use is sedation dentistry (nitrous oxide), commonly known as laughing gas. In this blog post, we will discuss what nitrous oxide is, its safety for kids, and common treatments where it is used in pediatric dentistry.

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What is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is a colorless, odorless gas that is commonly used in dental procedures to help children feel more relaxed and comfortable. The gas is mixed with oxygen and delivered through a small mask that fits over the child’s nose. The gas is easily adjustable, so the dentist can increase or decrease the amount of nitrous oxide as needed to keep the child calm and comfortable.

Is Nitrous Oxide Safe for Kids?

Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective way to help children relax during dental treatments. The gas has been used in dentistry for over 100 years and is still used today because of its safety and effectiveness. Nitrous oxide is not addictive, and it does not cause any long-term effects. It wears off quickly after the procedure is over, and the child can go home without feeling groggy or nauseous.
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Common Treatments where Nitrous Oxide is Used in Pediatric Dentistry

Nitrous oxide can be used for a variety of dental treatments, including:
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Fillings: Nitrous oxide can help children feel more comfortable during the filling process, which can be uncomfortable and scary.

Extractions: Nitrous oxide can help children relax during tooth extractions, which can be a painful and frightening experience.

Cleanings: Nitrous oxide can help children feel more comfortable during routine cleanings, which can be uncomfortable for children who have sensitive teeth or gums.

Crowns: Nitrous oxide can help children feel more comfortable during crown procedures, which can be a lengthy and uncomfortable process.

Why Choose Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry for Your Child's Dental Care?

At Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry, our team of experienced and compassionate pediatric dentists understand for most children, visiting the dentist is a routine experience that they handle calmly, even during minimally invasive procedures. However, in some cases, more complex or invasive dental procedures are necessary to maintain a child’s oral health. In such cases, may recommend dental sedation or anesthesia to ensure the child’s comfort and safety throughout the treatment.

Dr. Laura recognizes that sedation is not a one-size-fits-all service and will discuss options with parents before the child’s upcoming appointment. Together, they will determine the best choice for the child and the procedure at hand. While Dr. Laura always focuses on prevention, sometimes more invasive procedures are necessary to maintain a child’s oral health, and sedation can help ensure the experience is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
If you have questions about dental care for your child, we encourage you to contact us today or click here to schedule a consultation.
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Protect Your Smile: Tips for Preventing Gum Disease from a Young Age

February is Gum Disease Awareness Month, a time when oral health professionals and organizations raise awareness about the importance of good oral hygiene to prevent gum disease

Protect Your Smile: Tips for Preventing Gum Disease from a Young Age

February is Gum Disease Awareness Month, a time when oral health professionals and organizations raise awareness about the importance of good oral hygiene to prevent gum disease. Gum disease is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can range from mild gum inflammation (gingivitis) to more severe forms of gum disease (periodontitis), which can cause tooth loss and other health problems.
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Tips For Preventing Gum Disease

Preventing gum disease is important from a young age, as it can have long-lasting effects on oral health and overall well-being. Here are some tips for preventing gum disease from a young age:
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Practice good oral hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing are crucial for preventing gum disease. Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and gums.

Use an antiseptic mouthwash: An antiseptic mouthwash can help kill bacteria that cause gum disease. Look for a mouthwash that contains chlorhexidine or another antibacterial ingredient, and use it after brushing and flossing.

Avoid tobacco products: Smoking and using other tobacco products can increase your risk of gum disease. If you use tobacco, consider quitting to improve your oral and overall health.

Eat a healthy diet: A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help prevent gum disease. Avoid sugary and starchy foods, which can contribute to the buildup of plaque on teeth and gums.

Get regular dental checkups: Regular dental checkups and cleanings are important for maintaining good oral health and preventing gum disease. Your dentist can identify early signs of gum disease and provide treatment to prevent it from progressing.

Manage stress: Stress can weaken the immune system and increase your risk of gum disease. Practice stress-management techniques, such as exercise, meditation, or deep breathing, to reduce your stress levels and promote good oral and overall health.

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Schedule Your Next Dental Check Up At Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry

By following these tips, you can reduce your risk of gum disease and maintain good oral health from a young age. If you are concerned about your child’s oral health or have questions about preventing gum disease, talk to your dentist or oral health professional at Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry. Our compassionate and experienced Doctors are here to help and are standing by to assist you.
Schedule your child’s first Dental Exam today or call us at !

The Truth Behind Four Common Myths About Caring for Your Child’s Teeth

When it comes to baby teeth and caring for children’s teeth as they grow and develop, there are a lot of misconceptions that are commonly construed as the truth. The following are some of the most common myths about pediatric dental care and the real truths behind them.

The Truth Behind Four Common Myths About Caring for Your Child's Teeth

When it comes to baby teeth and caring for children’s teeth as they grow and develop, there are a lot of misconceptions that are commonly construed as the truth. The following are some of the most common myths about pediatric dental care and the real truths behind them.
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The Truth Behind Four Common Myths About Caring for Your Child's Teeth

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1. Baby Teeth Aren't Important

Since baby teeth eventually fall out, many people believe that taking care of them isn’t important. This belief, however, is false. Yes, baby teeth eventually are lost, but the last ones usually don’t come out until a child is between the ages of 10 and 12. Failing to take good care of a child’s baby teeth can lead to tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease, and these all have the potential to be painful and harm a child’s overall health.

2. Candy Is the Top Cause of Tooth Decay and Cavities

Sugar in candy can play a role in tooth decay, but it’s not the only cause. Any source of carbohydrates and/or acid can fuel the bacteria that cause tooth decay.

3. Your Child Can Brush Their Own Teeth

It’s good for children to learn to brush their own teeth, but parents still need to monitor their brushing to make sure they brush long enough, use proper techniques, and get all of the nooks and crannies.

4. Children Don't Need to Visit the Dentist Until They Are School-Aged

Pediatric dental care is about monitoring a child’s development and administering preventative dental treatments. Children should have their first dental exam by their first birthday or when their first tooth erupts – whichever occurs first.

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Dental Care for Children and Guidance for Parents at Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry

At Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Stewart is proud to provide comprehensive dental care to children of all ages – from infancy to young adulthood – in addition to guidance for parents regarding pediatric dental care, pediatric preventative dentistry, and at-home oral hygiene for their children. Dr. Stewart strives to make every child’s experience in the dental office positive while helping parents and caregivers to provide their children with a strong foundation for good oral health for life.

To learn more or schedule an appointment, we welcome you to contact our pediatric dental office in Kenmore today.

5 Tips for Caring for Your Child’s Teeth During the Holidays

No child includes dental cavities on their holiday wishlists. However, many of the sweet treats that make the holiday season feel more special than the rest of the year contain high amounts of sugar and sticky ingredients that can fuel tooth decay, leading to the formation of dental cavities.

Caring for Your Child's Teeth This Holiday Season

No child includes dental cavities on their holiday wishlists. However, many of the sweet treats that make the holiday season feel more special than the rest of the year contain high amounts of sugar and sticky ingredients that can fuel tooth decay, leading to the formation of dental cavities. To help your child enjoy the holiday season while safeguarding their oral health, put the following tips into practice.
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5 Tips for Caring for Your Child's Teeth During the Holidays

1. Keep Your Routines

Amidst the craziness of winter breaks from school, holiday parties, late nights, early mornings, and all of the festivities, it’s easy to get off-schedule and let your normal oral hygiene routines go. However, making sure you stick to your normal brushing and flossing routines every day – no matter how sleepy or excited your child might be – will help prevent cavities.

2. Enjoy Sweets Smartly

It’s okay for your child to enjoy the sweet treats of the season. Just be sure that they do so smartly. Have them choose sweets that aren’t as sticky, such as chocolates instead of gummies. Additionally, treats that can be eaten more quickly are better than those that take a long time to consume. For example, hard candies like candy canes prolong the exposure of your child’s teeth to sugar, worsening tooth decay.

3. Rinse With Water

Make sure your child stays hydrated (to promote healthy saliva flow and the natural remineralization of the tooth enamel) and have your child rinse their mouth with water after eating candy. Remember that brushing fewer than 30 minutes after eating food can actually harm the tooth enamel.

4. Keep Up With Routine Dental Appointments

Although there’s no doubt that the holiday season is a busy one, be sure to keep up with your child’s routine dental cleanings and examinations. They should be visiting the dentist every six months, and delaying these exams can result in the worsening of developing dental problems.

5. Fortify Your Child's Teeth With Fluoride and Dental Sealants

At your child’s next appointment, ask whether your child could benefit from professional fluoride treatments or dental sealants.
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Start the New Year Smiling at Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry

If your child’s due for their next dental appointment, then we encourage you to help them start the new year with a bright smile by scheduling their next dental exam with our pediatric dentist in Kenmore.

Oral Cancer Action Month: How to Protect You and Your Child From Oral Cancer

Oral cancer includes several types of cancer that affect the structures in and around the mouth and oral cavity. November is Oral Cancer Action Month, and we like to use the opportunity to help educate patients and their parents about oral cancer risks and the things they can do to lower their own risk of developing this dangerous disease.

Oral Cancer Action Month: How to Protect You and Your Child From Oral Cancer

Oral cancer includes several types of cancer that affect the structures in and around the mouth and oral cavity. November is Oral Cancer Action Month, and we like to use the opportunity to help educate patients and their parents about oral cancer risks and the things they can do to lower their own risk of developing this dangerous disease.
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6 Tips for Preventing Oral Cancer

1. Use Sun Protection

Although the sun doesn’t see the inside of your mouth too often, it can certainly affect the lips and lead to changes on the cellular level that can cause cancer of the lips. Wear wide-brimmed hats, stay in the shade, and use lip balms that contain SPF.

2. Don't Use Tobacco

Tobacco use of any kind (cigarettes, pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco, and vaping) can greatly increase your risk of developing all types of oral cancer.

3. Avoid Second-Hand Smoke

Even if a person does not use tobacco products, any exposure (but especially regular exposure) to tobacco smoke can also increase a person’s risk for oral cancer and other types of cancer. Be sure to protect your children from taking in second-hand smoke.

4. Limit Alcohol Intake

Regular alcohol consumption or exposure can damage the tissue cells in and around your mouth, increasing your risk of oral cancer.

5. Use Alcohol-Free Mouthwash

Alcohol in the form of wine, spirits, or beer isn’t the only type of alcohol that can increase the risk of cancer; alcohol contained in other products, such as mouthwash, can also increase a person’s risk. If you or your child uses mouthwash regularly, we strongly recommend using an alcohol-free formula.

6. Get Vaccinated for HPV

The human papilloma virus can greatly increase the risk of oral cancer and other types of cancer. We recommend talking with your child’s doctor about the appropriate age for vaccinating children against this common STI.
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Routine Oral Cancer Screening With Your Child's Dental Exam

Although the risk for oral cancer increases with age and more adult activities (such as alcohol consumption and tobacco use) children can still develop oral cancer, and that’s why every dental examination at Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry includes a routine oral cancer screening. During this screening, we look over your child’s mouth and other oral structures to check for any abnormalities or changes that could indicate the need for further testing.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment for your child, we welcome you to contact our office today.

The 3 Worst Kinds of Candy for Your Teeth

Just the mention of Halloween and trick-or-treating is enough to send chills down any dentist’s spine. Why do we find Halloween so scary? The candy of course. Halloween candy is not only laden with sugar but it’s also enjoyed abundantly during the season, which means all of our teeth are at risk of tooth decay and their gums are in danger of periodontal disease.

The 3 Worst Kinds of Candy for Your Teeth

Just the mention of Halloween and trick-or-treating is enough to send chills down any dentist’s spine. Why do we find Halloween so scary? The candy of course. Halloween candy is not only laden with sugar but it’s also enjoyed abundantly during the season, which means all of our teeth are at risk of tooth decay and their gums are in danger of periodontal disease.

Some candy, however, is worse than others.
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Top 3 Types of Candy to Avoid This Halloween

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1. Sticky Candy

Any candy that is sticky (taffy, starbursts, skittles, gummies, or licorice) clings to the tooth enamel. This effectively leaves a feast of sugar for harmful bacteria right on the delicate surface of your teeth. As a result, bacteria proliferate and they produce copious amounts of acid that weaken your tooth enamel, leading to decay and cavities.

2. Hard Candy

When you finish eating a piece of candy, your body naturally produces saliva that helps to clean the teeth and remineralize your tooth enamel. The more time you spend eating candy, however, the more time the bacteria in your mouth are actively feasting and producing acid. So, hard candies, like lollipops, that you need to suck on for a long time to finish eating result in a longer period of exposure to acid. So, although they aren’t necessarily sticky, hard candies are one of the worst sweet treats you can eat because they extend the amount of time that your tooth enamel is getting weakened.

3. Sour Candy

Sour candies taste sour because they are highly acidic. They also contain a lot of sugar. This means you’re not only introducing sugar into your mouth that will fuel acid-producing bacteria, but you’re also introducing acid into your mouth. This causes two-fold tooth decay. Plus, many sour candies are also sticky or hard which further worsens the problem.

Schedule a Post-Halloween Dental Exam and Cleaning in Kenmore

Of course, you can still enjoy Halloween treats while caring for your teeth. Limit the amount of candy your child eats each day and the amount of time they spend eating it. Be sure to rinse with water immediately after and wait 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. Then schedule a post-holiday dental exam and cleaning at Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry.

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How to Get Your Child to Brush Their Teeth – 6 Simple Tips

As every parent knows, teaching your children about good oral hygiene habits and actually getting them to follow through and practice good oral hygiene are two separate challenges. If you’re struggling to get your children to brush their teeth every morning and night before bed, we encourage you to consider the following tips.

How to Get Your Child to Brush Their Teeth – 6 Simple Tips

As every parent knows, teaching your children about good oral hygiene habits and actually getting them to follow through and practice good oral hygiene are two separate challenges. If you’re struggling to get your children to brush their teeth every morning and night before bed, we encourage you to consider the following tips.
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6 Tips to Get Your Child to Brush Their Teeth

1. Do It at the Same Times Every Day

Always brushing and flossing at the same time every morning (after breakfast) or in the evening (after dinner or before bed) will help your children develop healthy habits and impulses.

2. Honor Healthy Habits – No Matter What

In order to develop healthy habits, it’s essential that you always honor them – even if it’s summer vacation, a holiday, or you’re away from home.

3. Use Positive Reinforcement

If your child really struggles to participate in brushing and flossing, consider offering them a reward. You can use a sticker chart to add up to a reward or choose something simple that will help to motivate your child to take care of their teeth each day.

4. Let Them Pick Their Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Involving your child in the process of shopping for a toothbrush and toothpaste can help get them excited about using the products they picked out at the store.

5. Make It Fun

Make brushing and flossing fun by setting a timer and challenging your child to see if they can brush their teeth for the full two minutes. You can also look up toothbrush videos online that play fun songs and help to entertain your child while they brush for two minutes.

6. Explain Why It's So Important

Respect your child’s intelligence – children are smart, after all – and take the time to explain why oral hygiene is so important for their health and wellbeing. If need be, put it into terms that they’ll better understand, like keeping their teeth healthy so they’ll always be able to chew their favorite foods.

Teach Even More Good Oral Hygiene Habits With Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings

At Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Stewart is an expert in pediatric dentistry and talks to children about the importance of practicing good oral hygiene. She can even help to teach your children the proper ways to brush and floss their teeth to prevent tooth decay and cavities.
To learn more about brushing your child’s teeth or to schedule an appointment, we welcome you to contact our pediatric dental clinic in Kenmore today.

Six-Year-Old Molars: What to Expect and How to Handle the Symptoms

From infancy through young adulthood, Dr. Stewart at Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry is here to help guide you through all of your child’s oral health and oral development milestones, including getting through the eruption of your child’s six-year molars.

Six-Year-Old Molars: What to Expect and How to Handle the Symptoms

From infancy through young adulthood, children undergo countless changes as their bodies grow and develop. Several of these changes include oral health milestones, such as the six-year molars.

What Are Six-Year Molars?

The six-year molars are the first set of permanent teeth to erupt without replacing any primary (baby) teeth. For most children, the six-year molars are a big milestone and a new experience because they usually do not remember the process of having their baby teeth come in and erupt through the gum tissue.
For most children, this first set of permanent molars erupt around age six or seven, and this is why they are often called “six-year molars.” Some children’s six-year molars erupt before they’ve lost any baby teeth. Other children’s six-year molars come in after they’ve lost several baby teeth. It’s different for every child, and the exact timing is largely dictated by genetics.
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Six-Year Molars Symptoms

The eruption of a child’s six-year molars can result in some uncomfortable symptoms such as:
Symptoms typically last for about a week. You should also keep a close eye on your child for signs of infection, as this is a possible complication. Signs of infection include severe swelling, significant fever, and/or pus near the erupting tooth.

Pain Relief for Six-Year-Old Molars

To help manage your child’s symptoms:
If you notice any signs of infection or if your child’s symptoms are severe, we strongly recommend scheduling a dental appointment or an examination with your child’s pediatrician.
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Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry: Guiding You Through All of Your Child's Dental Milestones

From infancy through young adulthood, Dr. Stewart is here to help guide you through all of your child’s oral health and oral development milestones, including getting through the eruption of your child’s six-year molars. To learn more or schedule a checkup for your child, we welcome you to contact our pediatric dental clinic in Kenmore.

Does Your Child Have Shark Teeth? What This Means for Their Oral Health

Most often, shark teeth resolve themselves on their own. Typically, the baby teeth start to become loose shortly after the ectopic eruption of the adult teeth, and they fall out on their own.

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Does Your Child Have Shark Teeth? What This Means for Their Oral Health

All humans have two sets of teeth. The first (primary, deciduous, or baby) teeth erupt during the first few years of life. These teeth are then replaced throughout early childhood with permanent (adult) teeth.

What Are Shark Teeth?

Normally, when a child’s permanent teeth start to come in, they dissolve the roots of the baby teeth as they push their way up through the gum tissue. This leads to the primary teeth becoming loose, falling out, and subsequent visits from the tooth fairy.

Sometimes, however, this part of the process doesn’t happen. The roots of the primary teeth remain intact, the baby teeth don’t fall out, and the adult teeth erupt in a second row of teeth behind the original arch of primary teeth. When this happens, the second row of teeth is often referred to as “shark teeth” referencing the several rows of teeth that sharks have inside their mouths. Dentists, on the other hand, call this phenomenon “ectopic eruption.”

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Are Shark Teeth a Cause for Concern?

Most often, shark teeth resolve themselves on their own. Typically, the baby teeth start to become loose shortly after the ectopic eruption of the adult teeth, and they fall out on their own. Even though the adult tooth is slightly out of alignment with the rest of the arch of teeth, the tongue will typically push the tooth into proper placement with some time.

What Happens If the Shark Teeth Situation Doesn't Resolve on Its Own

If the baby teeth do not come out on their own, and the permanent tooth has almost fully erupted (i.e. it is the same height as the baby tooth), then the baby teeth might need to be extracted because once the permanent tooth has fully erupted and developed it won’t move into proper alignment quite as easily.
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Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry, Guiding Through Your Child's Healthy Oral Development

Dr. Stewart at Kenmore Pediatric Dentistry is always here to help you through the ups, downs, and double rows of teeth of your child’s oral development. We recommend bringing your child in to see the dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. However, if you ever have any questions or concerns in between your child’s appointments, we always welcome you to call our office for advice or to find out if your child needs to see the dentist sooner than his or her next scheduled examination.