Yes, this is completely normal. The reason for this lies in the structure and size of the teeth. All teeth have an outer layer of enamel which is translucent, and an inner layer of dentine which is yellower in colour. Adult teeth have a thicker layer of dentine and so appear darker. This difference is only noticeable when there are baby teeth and adult teeth side by side. Once all the baby teeth are lost and the adult teeth will appear a “normal” colour again.
Toothbrushing should begin as soon as a child develops teeth, although co-operation is often lacking at this stage!
We recommend using a fluoride toothpaste, as there is evidence to show that this decreases the chances of developing decay. The concentration of fluoride is often measured in parts per million (ppm) in a toothpaste. The British Society of Paediatric Dentistry recommend the following:
Birth – 3 years – use a smear of toothpaste containing 1000ppm fluoride
3 years plus – use a pea size amount of toothpaste containing 1500ppm fluoride and encourage the child to spit out the toothpaste, not to swallow or rinse.
When choosing a manual toothbrush, look for one with a small head and medium bristles. An electric toothbrush can be used at any age, but younger children may appreciate a child specific head (most manufacturers make these as an option) and a body which has modes with less intense vibrations
Yes, there are a couple of alternatives. Most supermarkets sell an own brand toothpaste that is berry flavour, although this can also be quite strong.
There is a completely taste free, non-foaming toothpaste called oranurse which comes in both child and adult fluoride concentrations.
[picture of oranurse]
It was originally developed for autistic patients who didn’t like the strong taste or bubbles of standard toothpastes. It is also useful for patients who have a dry mouth or any condition that causes irritation of the lining of the mouth (eg lichen planus).
Oranurse can be purchased from Sixty Six Dental or click here to find other stockists.
For most patients, the decision to have braces is a cosmetic one. The appearance of the teeth can have a big effect on a person’s self-esteem and confidence. Braces (orthodontic treatment) can straighten the teeth and improve self-confidence when smiling.
There are also some situations where there is a health benefit to be had from orthodontic treatment. For example, if your upper teeth are more than 10mm in front of your lower teeth when you bite together then you are move likely to damage them if you fall. Or if you have a deep overlap in your bite and the lower teeth bite against the gums, making them sore.
The majority of child patients start treatment around 12-13 years old when all the adult teeth have come through. There are some cases which need to be started earlier and your dentist will advise you if this is needed. If you are an adult and missed out on treatment as a child, it may still be possible to have braces, but the process may take a bit longer.
Yes, this is quite a common situation and nothing to worry about. Once the baby teeth fall out, the adult teeth will drift forward into the space. If the adult teeth are short of space and are “crowded” it might be necessary to have a brace to move them into the perfect position.
