The Pediatric Dental Partners Blog

Manual vs. Electric Toothbrushes: What’s the Difference?

2011-12-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

Everybody is jumping on the electric toothbrush bandwagon in recent years, with many experts in the dental field claiming electric toothbrushes provide superior dental care. It’s true that electric toothbrushes are recommended for those who can’t do a good job brushing manually or who have arthritis or other conditions. But manual toothbrushes do have some advantages, according to an article we recently found including:

• Cost. While electric toothbrushes may be expensive for many people, manual toothbrushes are both inexpensive and accessible.

• Less pressure on your teeth & gums. While we can feel the amount of pressure we’re using as we grasp our manual toothbrush, we can’t feel the pressure nearly as well with an electric toothbrush. Placing too much pressure on our teeth can wear away at the tooth enamel, which causes pain, sensitivity, as well as an increased risk of tooth decay.

• Simple to pack. Manual toothbrushes are easy to carry around for those business or family trips. People are less likely to let their good dental care habits lapse on vacation with a toothbrush that they can easily bring along!

• Better for kids. Learning at a young age how to properly use a manual toothbrush helps children get a feel for how to properly take care of their oral hygiene.

Electric toothbrushes, on the other hand, are more effective in removing plaque and are considered a better alternative to maintaining gum health. Remember, whether you choose a manual or an electric toothbrush, Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow and our team encourage you to choose one with soft bristles and be sure to change the bristles on the electric brush when they become worn down. We also encourage you to replace your toothbrush every three months, when the bristles are no longer straight and firm or after you recover from a cold.

Give us a call at Pediatric Dental Partners if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook!

Happy brushing!

Kids and Teeth Grinding, from Pediatric Dental Partners

2011-11-29T09:49:00.000-08:00

Grind, grind, grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound. Did you know teeth grinding, or bruxism, is common in children as well? In fact, 3 out of 10 kids grind or clench their teeth, usually in response to losing teeth, jaw growth or other discomforts, such as allergies or infections. Teeth grinding is typically a passing phenomena as most kids outgrow it by the time they reach their teenage years. An important thing to remember is that kids frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, and taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem.

The first step of recovering from teeth grinding is noticing the problem. Symptoms of teeth grinding include:

• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

If your child is a teeth grinder, we may be able to help. Please give us a call or ask Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen, and Chidlow and team on Facebook!

Happy Thanksgiving from Pediatric Dental Partners!

2011-11-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. It's a big food holiday, so don't forget to brush and floss! If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we'd encourage you to send them along or call our office and ask how.

Gobble Gobble!

Discussing pediatric dental emergencies with Pediatric Dental Partners

2011-11-16T13:38:00.000-08:00

When your child needs urgent dental treatment, Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow and our team at Pediatric Dental Partners stand ready to help. Here are some helpful answers to some recent patient questions.

Q: What should I do if my child’s baby tooth is knocked out?
A: Contact Pediatric Dental Partners as soon as possible.

Q: What should I do if my child’s permanent tooth is knocked out?
A: Find the tooth and rinse it gently in milk or saliva. (Do not scrub it or clean it with soap — use just water!) If possible, replace the tooth in the socket and hold it there with clean gauze or a wash cloth. If you can’t put the tooth back in the socket, place the tooth in a clean container with milk, saliva, or water. Get to our office immediately. The faster you act, the better your chances of saving the tooth.

Q: What if a tooth is chipped or fractured?
A: Contact Pediatric Dental Partners immediately. Quick action can save the tooth, prevent infection and reduce the need for extensive dental treatment. Rinse the mouth with water and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, bring it with you when you visit Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow.

Q: What about a severe blow to the head or jaw fracture?
A: Go immediately to the emergency room of your local hospital. A blow to the head can be life threatening.

Q: What if my child has a toothache?
A: Call us and visit Pediatric Dental Partners promptly. To comfort your child, rinse the mouth with water. Apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth. Do not put heat or aspirin on the sore area.

Q: Can dental injuries be prevented?
A: Of course! First, reduce oral injury in sports by wearing mouth guards. Custom mouth guards provide the best protection. Second, always use a car seat for young children. Require seat belts for everyone else in the car. Third, child-proof your home to prevent falls, electrical injuries, and choking on small objects. Fourth, protect your child from unnecessary toothaches with regular dental visits to Pediatric Dental Partners.

Contact our Bossier City or Shreveport, LA dental office to schedule an appointment. We love what we do and enjoy every day watching our patients grow and smile as they visit our office.

Get started with the Thumb Program at Pediatric Dental Partners!

2011-11-09T14:19:00.000-08:00

At Pediatric Dental Partners, we understand that many of our families have concerns about thumb-sucking. To support the thumb-free efforts of our patients, Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow are proud to promote our Thumb Program!

To participate, visit Pediatric Dental Partners and let us know you'd like to sign up. Supplies will be given to your child at the office along with instructions, descriptive photos and incentives for success.

Directions are below:

1. Parents should paint a small amount of Mavala Stop on the child’s thumb or finger nail bed as if you were painting your fingernails with nail polish.

2. This procedure should be done every other night for five weeks in order to break the habit. Even if your child stops sucking their thumb the first night, you should continue to paint for the full five weeks to break the habit.

3. Our hygienist or assistant will establish a relationship with the child and will make weekly contact with the child and parent to monitor their progress and offer encouragement.

4. We also ask the parents to encourage and praise the child at home during the process.

5. We will have the child back in the office in five weeks for a check up and hopefully a graduation celebration from the Thumb Program. We will reward the child if they have been successful with a gift card of their choice.

Pediatric Dental Partners would like to congratulate Allye, a recent graduate from our Thumb Program! We are so proud of you!

If you have questions or would like to participate in our Thumb Program, please give us a call or find us on Facebook.

What are you up to this November?

2011-11-08T11:46:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before you go celebrating, Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow and our team at Pediatric Dental Partners want to know: What are your plans for November? Do you have plans for Thanksgiving? Are you planning a winter vacation? If so, we’d love to hear all about it!

You may share your stories with us below, or by posting on our Facebook page!

–The team at Pediatric Dental Partners

Halloween TIPS from the American Dental Association

2011-10-31T14:18:00.000-07:00

It’s that spooky time of year again! Whether you are going door-to-door trick or treating, attending a party dressed in a clever, silly or scary costume, or simply getting together with friends and family to watch scary movies, Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow and our team want you to keep in mind the following tips from our friends at the American Dental Association to help reduce tooth-decay.

•Eat treats with meals. Saliva production increases during meals washing out food particles and helping to neutralize cavity causing plaque acid.

•Consider chewing ADA-accepted sugarless gum after meals. Certain sugarless gums have earned the ADA Seal of Acceptance for scientifically proving that chewing the gum for 20 minutes after meals helped prevent tooth decay.

•Follow the 1-2-3s of good daily oral hygiene: Floss once a day, brush twice a day and eat three balanced meals a day.

•Visit Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow for regular checkups.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN from your friends at Pediatric Dental Partners!

All about baby teeth

2011-10-25T16:25:00.000-07:00

At Pediatric Dental Partners, we know teething patterns vary greatly from child to child—some don’t have any teeth by their first birthday, while others have a mouthful by then. Experts, however, including our friends at the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, do recommend that children have their teeth checked by their first birthdays.

Your child will have 20 baby teeth, which will later be replaced by permanent teeth. A baby's first tooth can come in as early as 3 months or as late as 1 year of age, however primary teeth usually begin to break through the gums when a child is about 6 months old. Most kids have all of their primary teeth by the time they are 3 years old.

The most important thing is not to worry if your toddler’s pearly whites don’t look perfect as they come in—baby teeth come in all shapes, sizes, and slants. Teeth generally appear one at a time over a period of months, and often—but not always—in this order: First the bottom two middle teeth, then the top two middle ones, then the ones along the sides and back. (They may not all come in straight, but don't worry—they usually straighten out over time.) Besides crooked teeth, your child may experience crowded or spaced-out teeth, missing teeth, supernumerary (too many) teeth and even discolored teeth.

If you have any questions about your toddler’s teeth, or if your child is experiencing issues that concern you, please give us a call to set up an appointment with Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen or Chidlow. Or, we invite you to ask us on Facebook!

Cold season is here, from Pediatric Dental Partners

2011-10-17T11:29:00.000-07:00

Cold and flu season is here - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow and our entire staff give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces. For the protection of other patients and our staff at Pediatric Dental Partners, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

And remember to constantly wash your hands and avoid contact with those who are ill! Stay healthy!

From Pediatric Dental Partners: You, your child and cavities

2011-10-10T11:48:00.000-07:00

Our team at Pediatric Dental Partners read an interesting article this morning pertaining to cavities and how bacteria spreads from parents to children, and thought we'd share the news with you, our valued patients and parents.

According to the MSNBC article, Streptococcus mutans, or MS, is a bacterium that can pass from person to person through the transfer of saliva, and is the main culprit. Bacteria have been known to spread through blowing on babies' foods, sharing household utensils and even kissing your little one. In fact, a 2008 pediatric dentistry study showed “strong evidence demonstrated that mothers are a primary source of MS colonization of their children; a few investigations showed other potential sources … notably fathers.”

Pediatric Dental Partners knows tooth decay is caused by a combination of factors, including the transfer of infectious saliva, genetics, oral hygiene, and feeding practices, such as letting your baby constantly suck on a sippy cup full of juice or milk or other sugar-laden liquids.

Pediatric Dental Partners would like for you to read the article and learn a bit more about the transmission of bacteria and how it might impact your child. If you have any questions about bacteria or your treatment at Pediatric Dental Partners, please contact us on Facebook or feel free to give us a call!

Smile! October is National Dental Hygiene Month!

2011-10-04T10:52:00.000-07:00

Did you know that October is National Dental Hygiene Month? For our staff at Pediatric Dental Partners, that means only one thing: Reminding you that teeth are an important part of your body, and keeping them clean helps keep your mouth and body healthy. By taking care of your teeth, eating a balanced diet and visiting our office on a regular basis, you can have healthy teeth and an attractive smile that lasts a lifetime.

We encourage you to check out the official National Dental Hygiene Month website as well, which provides pointers on keeping your mouth clean and healthy. Lastly, has it been six months since your child has been in to Pediatric Dental Partners? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call to set up an appointment with Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow.

The benefits of dairy, from Pediatric Dental Partners

2011-09-26T15:05:00.001-07:00

Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow want to know: Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Results of the study also showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease.

Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all stimulate the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give us a call.

Is sedation dentistry right for your child?

2011-09-20T10:09:00.000-07:00

While Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow strive to offer a comfortable experience for all our patients, we realize that fear or anxiety while visiting the dentist can affect a lot of kids anyway. For patients who need extra comfort and relaxation during their dental visit, we are pleased to offer sedation dentistry.

Do you feel nervous or stressed about your upcoming dental treatment? Well you’re not alone; in fact, almost 30 percent of the population experiences "dental phobia" when faced with visiting the dentist!

The reasons for patients' fear of the dentist can be numerous, but are usually due to a traumatic experience during their childhood. This overwhelming anxiety can cause one to avoid modern dental care, resulting in poor oral hygiene and possible mouth-related issues such as gum disease.

Your child can benefit from sedation dentistry if he or she experiences one or more of the following:

* High fear of dental care
* Complex dental problems
* Traumatic dental experiences
* Fear of needles and shots
* Trouble getting numb
* Sensitive teeth

If your child suffers from dental phobia, sedation dentistry may be the answer. Please give us a call for more info about sedation dentistry, and we'll be more than happy to answer your questions.

Artificial sweeteners and your child’s health, from Pediatric Dental Partners

2011-09-13T09:53:00.000-07:00

Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow know that there is always a lot of debate in the health community about the health effects of artificial sweeteners, and aspartame is most surely one of the most controversial food additives to ever be approved by the FDA. Here at Pediatric Dental Partners, we try to provide you with the most up to date information on topics relating to the health of our patients and their loved ones. That is why we want to share with you a few facts that we recently learned in a Huffington Post article.

Did you know that aspartame is now sold under many commercial names, including NutraSweet, Canderel, and AminoSweet? Yes, that’s right. When checking nutrition facts, it is important to keep an eye out for all of these ingredients! This sweetener can be found in diabetic foods, jams, breakfast cereals, chewing gum, soda, and even prescriptions and vitamins.

What’s so harmful about aspartame?

With over 10,000 official complaints, aspartame reactions are more commonly reported than that of all other food additives combined. Of these reports, two-thirds consist primarily of headaches, mood alterations, and hallucinations. Determining your nutritional type and the foods that your body craves is key to satisfying sugar cravings. The recommended fructose level is below 25 grams per day, which includes both natural and artificial sweeteners.

Next time you're in for an appointment, let us know if you have any questions about aspartame or this article. As always, please remember to use a straw if you choose to sip soda, coffee, or other dark colored beverages to take care of that beautiful smile!

Dental fun facts

2011-09-07T14:54:00.000-07:00

Everyone loves fun facts and dental tips. Fun, fun, fun! Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow and our team at Pediatric Dental Partners came across these dental fun facts recently and thought you might enjoy!

• The second most common disease in the United States is cavities. The first is the common cold.
• There are almost 9,000 accidental pockings and piercings with toothpicks per year.
• X-rays may be an effective tool in preventing strokes.
• A child will have 20 baby teeth by the time he or she is 2 years old. Through childhood, kids gradually lose baby teeth and grow 32 permanent teeth, including wisdom teeth.
• According to consumer reports, dentists are among the 5 most trusted professionals in the United States.
• Approximately $2 billion a year is spent on dental products like toothpastes, mouthwashes and dental floss.
• The average American spends about 38 days brushing teeth over his or her lifetime.
• Kids in North America spend half a billion dollars per year on chewing gum.
• Approximately 94 percent of Americans say they brush nightly while only 81 percent say they brush first thing in the morning.
• Grand Rapids, MI was the first American city to fluoridate its water.
• Earliest record of a toothbrush was found in Chinese literature about 1600 AD
• The natural bristles of early toothbrushes were taken from the necks and shoulders of swine, especially pigs living in colder climates like Siberia and China.

All about baby teeth

2011-08-30T10:38:00.000-07:00

At Pediatric Dental Partners, we know teething patterns vary greatly from child to child—some don’t have any teeth by their first birthday, while others have a mouthful by then. Experts, however, including our friends at the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, do recommend that children have their teeth checked by their first birthdays.

Your child will have 20 baby teeth, which will later be replaced by permanent teeth. A baby's first tooth can come in as early as 3 months or as late as 1 year of age, however primary teeth usually begin to break through the gums when a child is about 6 months old. Most kids have all of their primary teeth by the time they are 3 years old.

The most important thing is not to worry if your toddler’s pearly whites don’t look perfect as they come in—baby teeth come in all shapes, sizes, and slants. Teeth generally appear one at a time over a period of months, and often—but not always—in this order: First the bottom two middle teeth, then the top two middle ones, then the ones along the sides and back. (They may not all come in straight, but don't worry—they usually straighten out over time.) Besides crooked teeth, your child may experience crowded or spaced-out teeth, missing teeth, supernumerary (too many) teeth and even discolored teeth.

If you have any questions about your toddler’s teeth, or if your child is experiencing issues that concern you, please give us a call to set up an appointment with our office. Or, we invite you to ask us on Facebook!

Five great snacks for kids

2011-08-24T10:40:00.000-07:00

At Pediatric Dental Partners, we know getting kids and teens to eat healthy isn’t always an easy task, especially when they’re busy with school and other school- and social-related activities. At the school cafeteria, it's just too easy for kids to nosh on French fries, chicken nuggets and other fried foods and unhealthy snacks, so Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow and our team thought we’d pass along five delicious and nutritious snacks we know your child will love.

1. Cheese – Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheese stimulates the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

2. Blueberries - These tiny nutritional powerhouses are loaded with Vitamin C, as well as folic acid, minerals, fiber and disease-fighting phytochemicals, which have shown to help prevent cancer and diabetes. Kids love them sprinkled with a bit of sugar, topped with whipped cream, added to muffins and pancakes.

3. Whole wheat bread or cereal – With bread, kids get their iron, vitamins, magnesium, and zinc. With vitamins, calcium, and fiber, a bowl of enriched whole grain cereal with milk—and even fruit—is a power-packed snack or healthy start to the day.

4. Almonds - They’re rich in disease-fighting phytochemicals and Vitamin E, and also have good amounts of fiber, iron, and calcium. Let your kids eat them raw. (Note: Whole nuts are a choking hazard for children under 3 years old.)

5. Yogurt - Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Low-fat yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, especially when whipped up in a parfait with berries and granola. Homemade fruity yogurt pop sure beats sugary store-bought frozen treats!

We encourage you to check out the other 15 healthy snacks your child can enjoy at any time of the day! For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please post your question here on our blog, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Understanding cavities

2011-08-17T10:20:00.000-07:00

One word nobody wants to hear when they visit Pediatric Dental Partners is "cavity!" That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly is a cavity and how do you get one? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by your dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up

Baby teeth, and gums, need special care

2011-08-11T11:19:00.000-07:00

One question our staff at Pediatric Dental Partners hear all the time is, “When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?”

You should begin regular cleanings even before your baby has teeth. After each breast feeding – or bottle-feeding – use a clean, damp washcloth to gently rub your baby’s gum tissue. You can wrap the material around one finger to make it easier to remove any food bits from your baby’s mouth.

When your baby’s first tooth comes in, switch to a baby toothbrush. Look for special baby toothbrushes in your drugstore – they have just a few bristles and are very soft. There are even brushes shaped like finger puppets that fit over the tip of your pointer finger! All you need at this point is water – no toothpaste yet.

After a few more teeth appear, you can start using toothpaste, but you only need a tiny bit, and make sure it doesn’t contain fluoride for the first three years. From the beginning, have your little one practice spitting the toothpaste out after brushing. That way, he or she will already have the good habit of spitting when you switch to fluoride toothpaste, which should never be swallowed.

If you have any questions about caring for your baby’s teeth, please contact Pediatric Dental Partners.

How to ease dental fears in children

2011-08-05T16:03:00.000-07:00

Pediatric Dental Partners knows that many children have fear when it comes to visiting the dentist. Our team at the office found a great article on how to help kids overcome fears of the dentist, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Making your child feel comfortable when they visit our office is a huge reason to take your child to a pediatric dentist instead of a regular dentist.Pediatric Dental Partners excels at making children feel comfortable visiting the dentist. In fact, most of our patients look forward to their next visit!

Has your child visited us in the last six months? If not, it’s time to schedule an appointment!

Which toothbrush should my child be using?

2011-07-28T17:12:00.000-07:00

Pediatric Dental Partners will tell you that brushing your teeth is one of the easiest methods of cavity prevention. But which type of toothbrush should your child use? When choosing a toothbrush, look for round-ended (polished) bristles that clean while being gentle on the gums. Choose one that is specifically designed for children's smaller mouths and hands. Also, look for large handles that can help children control the toothbrush. Lastly, throw out a toothbrush after three months or sooner if the bristles are fraying. Frayed bristles can harm your gums, and are not as effective in cleaning teeth.

As far as which toothpaste is best? It doesn't matter as long as it has fluoride in it. However, for small children who tend to swallow toothpaste, do not use fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure to touch each tooth and every side of that tooth. Also, you do need to gently brush on your gums.

To learn more about choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your child, we encourage you to read this helpful article from Parenthood.com. Or, you may give us a call and we'll try to answer any question you may have about keeping your child's mouth as healthy as possible!

Summer fun with Pediatric Dental Partners!

2011-07-22T14:11:00.001-07:00

It’s summer here at Pediatric Dental Partners, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting America’s open roads or just having fun in the backyard, Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow want to hear all about it! Leave a comment on our Facebook fan page and tell us about your summer!

We also encourage you to post any photos from your adventures to our Facebook wall!

A few pool safety tips, from Pediatric Dental Partners

2011-07-15T15:46:00.000-07:00

Summer is here, and with summer comes lots of swimming! Our team at Pediatric Dental Partners found some helpful pool safety tips that we’d like to share with you, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Pediatricians.

* Install a fence at least four-feet high around all four sides of the pool. The fence should not have openings or protrusions that a young child could use to get over, under, or through.

* Make sure pool gates open out from the pool, and self-close and self-latch at a height children can't reach.

* Never leave children alone in or near the pool, even for a moment.

* Keep rescue equipment (a shepherd's hook - a long pole with a hook on the end - and life preserver) and a portable telephone near the pool. Choose a shepherd's hook and other rescue equipment made of fiberglass or other materials that do not conduct electricity.

* Avoid inflatable swimming aids such as "floaties." They are not a substitute for approved life vests and can give children a false sense of security.

* Children may not be developmentally ready for swim lessons until after their fourth birthday. Swim programs for children under 4 should not be seen as a way to decrease the risk of drowning.

* Whenever infants or toddlers are in or around water, an adult should be within arm's length, providing "touch supervision."

Have more questions about your children and their safety this summer? Give us a call!

Help children in need as they head back to school!

2011-07-08T12:11:00.000-07:00

The team at Pediatric Dental Partners will be donating backpacks filled with school supplies to Caddo and Bossier Parish school. We are asking for our patients to join us in supporting the children in need at these schools! If you donate any of the items listed below, your name will be entered into a drawing for a gift card.

Please note that this list is only for ideas. Additional school supplies may be added to the backpacks. Any and all donations will be accepted through August 5th.

Items needed:
backpacks, pencils, pens, loose leaf paper, spiral notebooks, 3-prong folders, 24 ct crayons, markers, glue sticks, erasers, rulers, scissors, highlighters, etc.

Together we can help the children in our community by giving back!

Check out this Independence Day treat that the kids will love!

2011-06-30T11:20:00.000-07:00

Looking for a fun treat that will impress the kids this 4th of July? Here’s a fun and simple recipe that our team at Pediatric Dental Partners found from Disney's FamilyFun that’s sure to WOW the kids.

You will need:

• Red and/or blue fruit flavored beverage (Powerade, Gatorade, Kool-Aid…)

• Seltzer (flavored or plain) or clear soda

• Ice cube trays

Directions:

Fill the ice cube trays with the red and blue beverages and let them freeze solid. After they are frozen, place three or four cubes into a glass and fill the glass with seltzer or clear soda. As the ice melts, colored bubbles will swirl in the drink.

Have a happy and safe 4th of July!

-Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen, & Chidlow and team

Sesame Street: Kids Just Love to Brush [Video]

2011-06-24T17:36:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love to brush your teeth? We enjoyed this video, and hope that you will as well!

What do you LOVE about Shreveport and Bossier City?

2011-06-16T16:30:00.000-07:00

Pediatric Dental Partners, your Shreveport and Bossier City pediatric dentist, is situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods. Each is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our amazing patients) living within.

Today, Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Shreveport and Bossier City? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite getaway in Louisiana?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Shreveport and Bossier City, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods” in Louisiana.

If you need to schedule your next appointment, give us a call! Have a great week!

June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-10T15:36:00.000-07:00

According to the American Dental Association, a person's smile outranked eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature, which is why it's important for our team at Pediatric Dental Partners to support National Smile Month this June.

Show off your pearly whites by posting your favorite smile photos on the wall of our Facebook page. We look forward to seeing what you share!

Pediatric Dental Partners supports the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

2011-06-03T17:41:00.000-07:00

Our team at Pediatric Dental Partners is very excited to announce our upcoming benefit car wash. We will be washing cars behind both offices to support the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Come support a great cause and get your car sparkling clean!

Wednesday, June 22nd from 9:00 – 3:00 at our Shreveport office
Thursday, June 23rd from 9:00- 3:00 at our Bossier City office

Donations are greatly appreciated! All proceeds will be donated to St Jude. Thank you for your support.

-The team at Pediatric Dental Partners

Pediatric Dental Partners, wishing you a safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend

2011-05-26T20:40:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend, a time to remember and honor the men and women lost while serving for our country. Memorial Day is also the unofficial start of summer, and for many folks in Shreveport and Bossier City, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the classroom or the office spells sweet, sweet relief.

What about you? What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, or just hitting the great American open roads, we’d like to hear all about it!

Our entire team at Pediatric Dental Partners wishes you a happy, safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!

2011-05-17T13:51:00.001-07:00

Did you know the month of May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to incorporate more physical activity into our lives. The reminder is even more significant today as people are more distracted by television, social networking, video games and working more hours. Living an active lifestyle can improve physical and mental health, productivity and overall well-being. The best part? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time or effort.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these public health guidelines for your reference. The guidelines call for people to exercise one hour every day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope).

At Pediatric Dental Partners, we always encourage our patients to exercise or participate in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection when doing so. To learn more about how often you should exercise, we recommend you check out these helpful tips, courtesy of our friends at the American Heart Association.

$1.50 for a Cavity

2011-05-13T16:03:00.000-07:00

Vending machines are a quick way to satisfy hunger. You put in $1.50 and you get back a candy bar, bag of chips or even a soda…but that’s not all! We want to remind you that vending machines not only dispense sweet treats and caffeine bursts, but they also dispense cavities!

Every time you chow down on that chocolate bar the bacteria in your mouth have a party feasting on the sugar. The sugar quickly turns into acid; that’s right, ACID!!! The acid sits on your teeth and eats away at the tooth’s natural enamel (the stuff that protects your tooth from decay). When this enamel is eaten away by the acid on your tooth, you get a cavity! Brushing your teeth after eating a sugary treat can help prevent cavities; but before you indulge, remind yourself: “can’t brush? Hold the sugar!”

When choosing a snack, consider these nutritional options that will not only satisfy your hunger and that “sweet tooth,” but won’t cause acid build up resulting in cavities:

• Fresh Fruits (berries, oranges, melon, pears, etc)
• Raw Vegetables (broccoli, celery, carrots, etc)
• Bread
• Pretzels (low salt)
• Milk (low or non-fat)
• Cheese (low or non-fat)
• Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc)
• Sliced meat

If you would like more advice about how you can prevent cavities, give Pediatric Dental Partners a call or ask our doctors during your next appointment.

What’s on your reading list?

2011-05-06T15:43:00.000-07:00

With the school year close to winding down for a lot of our patients at Pediatric Dental Partners, we wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading is a vital step in brain development and literacy. And if you needed any more reason to read, May marks “Get Caught Reading Month.”

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great reads? Ask us for suggestions, andour team would be happy to provide a few. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas on what to read next!

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your book picks or your all-time favorite novels or literature on our Facebook page!

Flossing with Pediatric Dental Partners

2011-04-27T16:51:00.000-07:00

We hope you and your child are not a part of the 51 percent of Americans who don’t floss every day. And we definitely hope you're not part of the 10 percent who never floss at all. Our staff at Pediatric Dental Partners will always tell you that proper flossing is just as important for your dental health as brushing regularly. Flossing, you see, cleans food and plaque that build up between teeth and below the gumline, key areas that brushing simply cannot reach.

Flossing 3-to-5 minutes each day is recommended, but even 60 seconds of flossing has a great benefit over not flossing at all. Also, make sure to always brush your teeth after you floss, and to rinse with water or mouthwash. When you begin flossing you may experience gum pain or bleeding, but with daily flossing and brushing this should stop within a week or so.

Lastly, has it been at least six months since your child's last dental checkup? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to schedule an appointment!

Tooth Fairy “Tooth” Box

2011-04-21T15:35:00.000-07:00

For your child, losing their first tooth, or any baby teeth for that matter, can be exciting! They might ask you, "what do I do with my lost tooth?" Well, you simply place it under your pillow at night and when you are fast asleep the tooth fairy will come and whisk your tooth away leaving behind a special gift just for you! Here's a great craft project for you and your child from Disney that will make the tooth fairy’s job a little easier and give their tooth a special place to stay until it is taken away.

Tooth Fairy “Tooth” Box

What you will need:
• 1 large empty match box
• Enough felt to wrap the box and inside sliding tray
• Ribbon
• Glue (tacky glue or a hot glue gun)
• Markers
• White, pink and blue (or your child's favorite color) felt for decorating the matchbox
• Scissors

Step 1: Pull the inner tray out of the box and line the inside with glue and felt as shown. Wrap the outside of the box with felt and glue it in place.

Step 2: Glue ribbon to the outside of the box in a hanging loop shape. Fold another piece of ribbon in half and glue it to the bottom of the inner tray to create a handle for sliding it in and out.

Step 3: Draw a tooth shape on paper, cut it out, and trace it onto the white felt twice. Cut out the teeth and face details.

Step 4: Decorate the teeth with the eyes and cheeks and draw on a mouth. Glue one tooth to the outside of the box.

Step 5: Create a tooth pocket by applying glue to the sides and bottom of the remaining tooth as shown, leaving an opening at the top. Glue the pocket to the inside tray. Once the glue dries, the box is Tooth Fairy-ready.

Now your child can put the tooth inside the inner pocket and hang it outside their door before they go to bed!

We hope you enjoy making your Tooth Fairy Box!

How to protect your child from gum disease

2011-04-14T11:36:00.000-07:00

At Pediatric Dental Partners, we'll tell you it's easy to tell when you have a cavity; but unfortunately, gum disease can exist in your mouth without you even knowing. In fact, you can have the beginning stages of gum disease without noticing any pain or discomfort. Since gum disease can be undetectable, it’s important to watch for warning signs in order to prevent the disease from worsening!

Signs to watch for:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you or your child is having these symptoms, schedule an appointment right away. We can diagnose the problem and begin treatment to save your teeth and give you back a healthy mouth!

We look forward to seeing you!

When is thumb-sucking a cause for concern?

2011-04-07T17:27:00.000-07:00

Lots of you have asked our staff at Pediatric Dental Partners about whether it’s healthy for children to suck thumbs (or, less frequently, fingers). If you’ve got a thumb-sucker in the house, you are not alone. Research tells us that between 75% and 95% of infants suck their thumbs.

So, is this anything to worry about?

In most cases, no. Sucking is a natural reflex for an infant, and can provide security and contentment as well as relaxation for your little one. It’s a habit that most children grow out of between the ages of 2 and 4.

However, if your child keeps sucking after he’s gotten his permanent teeth, it’s time for our team to take a closer look. If your child sucks his thumb aggressively, putting pressure on the inside of his mouth or his teeth, it could cause problems with tooth alignment and proper mouth growth. If you've got a thumb-sucker in the house, give us a call today and we can help assess the situation, and determine if our Thumb Sucking Program is right for your child.

Is your child a mouth breather?

2011-03-30T15:50:00.000-07:00

Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose may lead to trouble for our youngsters, according to a study published in the January/February 2010 issue of the journal General Dentistry.

Kids who typically breathe through their mouth - most often children who suffer from allergies - experience problems getting enough oxygen into their blood, a condition that affects their weight, size and sleep, which often affects their performance in classroom and daily life.

The author of the study, Dr. Yosh Jefferson, also notes that if left untreated, mouth breathing can cause dental and facial abnormalities. Did you know that mouth breathing is a treatable condition? Doing so, though, requires early diagnosis and treatment. Since our office sees our patients every six months, they may be in a position to identify the symptoms of mouth breathing.

If you suspect your child is a chronic mouth breather, please give our team at Pediatric Dental Partners a call.

For more on mouth breathing, we encourage you to read the rest of the Dr. Jefferson's article. For more on children's dental health, go to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services website.

Write a review for Pediatric Dental Partners!

2011-03-24T13:12:00.000-07:00

Pediatric Dental Partners, serving Shreveport, Bossier City and surrounding areas, strives to provide exceptional treatment in an informative and friendly environment. Have you had a great experience at our office?

Share your story with the world!

Just select the "Write a Review" button above to write a review on our Google Place Page. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

Thank you,
The team at Pediatric Dental Partners

March is National Nutrition Month!

2011-03-18T15:46:00.000-07:00

March has arrived, and that can only mean one thing: it’s National Nutrition Month. Every March, Pediatric Dental Partners and thousands of dentists and hygienists celebrate this occasion, and this year is no different. This March, our team wants you to think diabetes, obesity and periodontal disease, and how healthful eating and physical activity may improve periodontal health.

Small changes really can make a big difference, and the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has some advice on ways to start improving your diet this March:

• Focus on fruits and vegetables: Add a serving each day to one meal and increase it every few weeks. Adding more of these foods into your diet is important whether you buy frozen, fresh or organic.

• Think fresh, think local: From farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods in Bossier City and Shreveport.

• Make each and every calorie count: When you are choosing between options, focus instead on the one with more of the vitamins and nutrients that you need. Sometimes, foods with fewer calories aren’t always the healthiest options.

• It’s tempting, but…: If you have a sweet tooth, have fruit and yogurt for dessert. If you crave a snack in the afternoon, enjoy some trail mix or nuts.

• Expand your horizons: Try a fish you’ve never eaten before or find a new vegetable recipe. By testing yourself, you might find new healthy favorites to add to your regular grocery list.

If you have additional questions about periodontal disease or keeping yourself and your mouth healthy, please give us a call!

Is tooth decay preventable?

2011-03-08T16:25:00.000-08:00

Good question - yes, in fact, tooth decay is totally preventable! Tooth decay, which is caused by sugars left in your mouth, can turn into an acid, which in turn can break down your teeth. Children are at high risk for tooth decay for a simple reason: many children and adolescents tend to be lax in their oral hygiene habits. Proper brushing and flossing routines combined with regular dental visits help keep tooth decay away. A low-sugar diet also helps keep tooth decay at bay.

Your child should visit Pediatric Dental Partners every six months (or as recommended) for regular dental cleanings and checkups. Drs. Daniel Crawford, Lauren Wallace, Shannon Backofen, Susan Chidlow and team recommend fluoride treatments twice a year along with cleanings to keep teeth their strongest. Tooth sealants are also recommended because they "seal" the deep grooves in your child's teeth, preventing decay from forming in these hard-to-reach areas. Sealants last for several years, but will be monitored at your regular checkups.

Lastly, we encourage you to check out this helpful article about kids and tooth decay, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.

Let us know if you have any questions - we want to hear from you on Facebook as well!

“My son is turning one – when should bring him in for a visit?”

2011-03-03T15:06:00.000-08:00

Great question! The short answer is, "First visit by first birthday."

Our team at Pediatric Dental Partners knows that cavities know no age boundaries, and that is why we recommend a visit to our office at age one. That also happens to be the opinion of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Dental Association agree. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that children who are at risk of early childhood cavities visit a pediatric dentist by their first birthday.

Research has shown that cavities are increasing in preschool-aged children, and that more than one in four kids has had at least one cavity by the time they're four years old. In fact, many children get cavities as early as age two.

The appointment also covers topics such as the importance of baby teeth, nutrition, development and overall concerns you may have with your child. We believe that a child's first visit with Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow should be enjoyable and positive. The more you and your child know about the first visit, the better you will feel. Our staff makes a practice of using pleasant, non-frightening, simple words to describe your child's first dental visit and treatment, and we want you to feel at ease from the moment your family arrives at our convenient Shreveport and Bossier City offices.

Have you scheduled an appointment for your child? We hope to see you soon!

Cheese and your child’s oral health

2011-02-25T13:35:00.000-08:00

Did you know research shows cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth? Not only does cheese provide large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also fights cavities. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Swiss and Mozzarella all do their part to stimulate our salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris ...and protect them from acids that weaken them.

What does that mean? Cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's pH level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Hope this helps!

Stay Healthy - Replace Your Toothbrush!

2011-02-16T12:31:00.000-08:00

It’s that time of year to start thinking about protecting yourself and your family from the flu. Here are some simple steps you can take to help yourself avoid colds and the flu this season.

1. Wash your hands before and after brushing
2. Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen
3. Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
4. Replace toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Drs. Daniel Crawford, Lauren Wallace, Shannon Backofen and Susan Chidlow give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Hope this helps and give us a call if you have any questions! Stay healthy!

Safety first this winter! From Pediatric Dental Partners

2011-02-11T07:25:00.000-08:00

Winter is officially here, and with it comes not only the holiday season, but also sometimes unpredictable and inclement weather. This week, Drs. Daniel Crawford, Lauren Wallace, Shannon Backofen and Susan Chidlow would like to share a few winter safety tips that we found on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry website. These tips include everything from what to wear outdoors to tips for winter snow sports. Enjoy!

• Older babies and young children should generally be dressed in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear in the same conditions
• Several thin clothing layers will keep an infant or child dry and warm. Warm boots, gloves, mittens, and a hat are necessities!
• A cold air humidifier, saline nose drops, and petrolatum will help a child that suffers from winter nosebleeds.
• It is important for children to wash their hands frequently, and to use the bend of their elbow if they need to sneeze or cough to prevent the spread of colds and flu.
• Never ski or snowboard alone. Adults should supervise young children participating in winter sports.
• When sledding, it is preferable to separate young children from older children, and to avoid crowded areas.
• The AAP recommends that children under age 16 not operate snowmobiles and that children under age 6 never ride on snowmobiles.

We hope that these tips help keep you and your loved ones stay safe and sound this winter season. Please give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment at Pediatric Dental Partners.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

2011-02-02T14:40:00.000-08:00

With February being National Children's Dental Health Month, our team at Pediatric Dental Partners thought we'd share a few good oral hygiene tips with our patients, courtesy of the American Dental Association, or ADA.

• Teeth brushing techniques: It takes only two minutes to properly brush, using short, gentle strokes and devoting extra attention to the gumline, areas around fillings and hard-to-reach areas such as the back teeth.
• Flossing: hold the floss snugly between thumbs and index finger and place between each of the teeth, making sure to go beneath the gumline and curving the floss around the base of each tooth.
• Snack wisely: choose healthy snacks such as vegetables, fruits and cheese and avoid sticky, chewy candies that can stick to the teeth. If you eat these snacks, make sure to brush after doing so.
• Carbonated or sugary drinks: these beverages create acids that can damage the teeth when mixed with saliva, so they should be avoided altogether. When drinking one of these beverages, avoid sipping on it throughout the day. Rather, have a drink and then brush your teeth.
• Regular dental visits: you should visit your dentist regularly (approximately every six months).

National Children's Dental Health Month, now in its 61st year, aims to increase awareness about the importance of kids' oral health. If you have any questions about keeping your mouth healthy, or about your treatment with Pediatric Dental Partners, please feel free to give us a call!

Access your account—anywhere, any day, any time—at Pediatric Dental Partners

2011-01-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds simple and convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at our Bossier City and Shreveport, LA offices enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website. You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You may sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

The importance of regular checkups with Pediatric Dental Partners

2011-01-19T16:51:00.000-08:00

If you’re brushing and flossing on a regular basis, we think that’s fantastic! But, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit Drs. Daniel Crawford, Lauren Wallace, Shannon Backofen and Susan Chidlow every six months, in addition to brushing your teeth a couple times a day. Because your dental health is important to us, we'd like to remind you that it's time for your examination.

Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Our doctors at Pediatric Dental Partners can:

• Check for problems that might not be seen or felt

• Detect cavities and early signs of decay

• Treat oral health problems early

During an oral exam we will usually check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to our office in the last six months (or as recommended), call us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you!

More happy patients at Pediatric Dental Partners!

2011-01-13T11:36:00.000-08:00

Drs. Daniel Crawford, Lauren Wallace, Shannon Backofen and Susan Chidlow and our team love getting patient reviews. And lately, Pediatric Dental Partners, serving Bossier City and Shreveport, has been getting some pretty great patient testimonials! Here's what a few of our patients had to say when they were asked, "Is there anyone you would like to recognize for outstanding or less-than-outstanding service?"

"Zac's experience with your practice has always been great." ~Zachary

"Everyone was great!" ~Andrew

"The technicians that have assisted the dentist during the different appointments. I appreciated the way they spoke and comforted during each procedure. Also each dentist we saw was equally as kind." ~Meredith

"Jamie did an awesome job cleaning Walker's teeth. She really made him feel comfortable." ~Walker

"Very impressed with everyone." ~Nicholas

Gummy Tummy, from Pediatric Dental Partners

2011-01-06T10:44:00.001-08:00

At Pediatric Dental Partners we know the rumors going around—mostly among young people—that once you swallow a piece of chewing gum it will stake a claim and take up residency in your stomach for at least seven years! We really hate to take all the fun out of the mystery, but the truth is that chewing gum, when swallowed, will enter the stomach and move through the digestive system just like any other piece of food and leave the body long before seven years! So, if you ever have accidentally swallowed a piece of gum, there is no need to worry!

This being said, gum does not have any dietary benefits, so while it’s not harmful to swallow, you still want to avoid swallowing it. If you are a gum-chewer, make sure you chew sugarless gum, because gum with sugar can lead to cavities. Sugarless gum still has the same amount of flavor, but with less cavity causing ingredients. You see, when the bacterium in your mouth breaks down sugar, what’s left behind is acid. This acid eats away at the enamel coating of your teeth, causing holes that we call cavities. Cavities can lead to other long term mouth problems if they are not treated in time, so it is best to try and avoid overexposing your teeth to too many harmful substances!

Happy (sugar-free) gum chewing!

This Year, Make a New Year’s Resolution to Smile About!

2010-12-27T14:15:00.000-08:00

Let’s face it- when was the last time you managed to keep a New Year’s resolution? We at Pediatric Dental Partners believe the key to sticking to a goal is picking one that is both reasonable and attainable. If you haven’t yet picked a New Year’s resolution, consider setting one that will improve your oral health!

For example, resolve to brush twice and floss once a day. Good oral hygiene only takes a few minutes a day, and can make a big difference in your oral health and overall health too! For more oral health-themed resolutions for you and your family, check out this article.

We would love to see what you come up with, share with us by commenting on this post or on our Facebook page. Whatever your New Year’s Resolution, we wish you the very best for 2011!

-Happy New Year, from your friends at Pediatric Dental Partners

Beware of those holiday goodies!

2010-12-22T11:20:00.000-08:00

Maintaining a healthy diet over the holiday season can prove a difficult task. After all, who can resist the tasty treats of winter baking? With grandma and everybody else offering you candy, chocolate logs or homemade fudge, you just can’t say “I’ll pass” each time. But trouble lurks: every time you chow down on that chocolate or candy, the bacteria in your mouth have a feast on the sugar—at your expense. The sugar turns into acid, and the acid eats away at the enamel on your teeth. Then, you start getting cavities.

Instead, our friends at the American Dental Association recommend nuts or dried fruit, which are a nice alternative to sugars and have a greater nutritional value—and can satisfy your sweet tooth! Both nuts and fruit are a great source of fiber and act as an appetite suppressant. In addition, nuts are a great source of Vitamin E, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B9, nutrients that contribute to a healthy immune system. Nuts are also a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked with reducing heart disease and lower blood pressure.

If you must indulge in chocolaty goodness this holiday season, remember to brush your teeth after eating sugary treats. As always, please give us a call if you have any questions!

Seasons Greetings from Pediatric Dental Partners!

2010-12-14T13:44:00.001-08:00

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as the team at Pediatric Dental Partners reflects on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2011? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us here, or on our Facebook page, all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

Happy Holidays!

--The Pediatric Dental Partners family

Helpful tips to ease your fear of visiting the Dentist

2010-12-08T12:56:00.000-08:00

Do you find yourself feeling increasingly nervous the closer you get to your next Dental appointment? Pediatric Dental Partners understands that many people feel this way and we would like to provide some tips to help you feel more comfortable on your next visit.

Understand that you are not alone
There are many people out there that are afraid of visiting the dentist for various reasons.

Identify your fears
Sit down and write down everything that makes you nervous about going to the dentist. Once you have them written down, scan your list and think about some ways you might be able to overcome them.

Discuss your fears with your Doctor
After making a list, bring it in or simply remember what you wrote down and talk about them you’re your doctor. Pediatric Dental Partners takes these issues very seriously and by discussing any reservations or concerns with you, we can work toward providing a more comfortable dental experience.

Avoiding dental treatment will only increase your fears
By avoiding dental treatment you run the risk of requiring more serious dental treatment. By regularly visiting the dentist, you will rest easier knowing that you are keeping your teeth healthy.

Drs. Daniel Crawford, Lauren Wallace, Shannon Backofen and Susan Chidlow hope that you find these tips useful. Feel free to call our office with and questions or concerns you might have.

Write a review for Pediatric Dental Partners!

2010-12-01T13:29:00.001-08:00

From the moment you walk in the door of Pediatric Dental Partners, our doctors and team strive to provide superior treatment in a friendly, fun and exciting atmosphere. Drs. Daniel Crawford, Lauren Wallace, Shannon Backofen and Susan Chidlow specialize in pediatric dentistry, dentistry for young children and adolescents and dental care for special needs children. We are passionate about developing and maintaining your child's smile!

Whether you and your family have been visiting our offices for weeks, months, or years, we’d love to hear your thoughts about how our practice is faring. You can write a review for our Shreveport office here or for our Bossier City office here. You can also tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you,

The team at Pediatric Dental Partners

Pediatric Dental Partners congratulates the recent graduates of our Thumb Sucking Program

2010-11-24T09:51:00.000-08:00

Our doctors and team at Pediatric Dental Partners would like to recognize all of the super star graduates of our Thumb Sucking Program.

Sucking is a natural reflex for an infant, and can provide security and contentment as well as relaxation for your little one. Children begin our Thumb Sucking program ideally before getting their permanent teeth and braces, with the goal of them breaking the thumb sucking habit.

In the program, a Hygienist gives the child words of encouragement and helps the child work through breaking the habit. The Hygienist calls the child every night for the first week, and then a couple of times each week for the following four weeks. All graduates of the Thumb Sucking Program are given a certificate, balloons, a gift card to Target, prizes, and a waiting room celebration.

If you've got a thumb-sucker in the house, give us a call today and we can help assess the situation, and determine if our Thumb Sucking Program is right for your child.

Preparing for Cold and Flu Season, from Pediatric Dental Partners

2010-11-19T16:55:00.000-08:00

Fall is upon us, and with it comes the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, our doctors will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs can linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing
• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen
• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

Hope these tips help! Feel free to call us at Pediatric Dental Partners if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook.

A day to honor America’s veterans

2010-11-11T15:27:00.000-08:00

Have you thanked a veteran lately? November 11 is Veterans Day - the perfect holiday for thanking and honoring our country’s military. In celebration of Veterans Day, our team at Pediatric Dental Partners would like to share a few fun facts about our flag, this national holiday, and our country’s history!

• There are 23.2 million veterans in the U.S.
• The flag was first approved by Congress on June 14, 1777
• Each of the flag’s colors signify different American values- red is for valor and zeal, white is for hope, purity, and cleanliness of life, and blue is for heaven, loyalty, sincerity, justice, and truth
• Research by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helped develop the CAT Scan, the cardiac pacemaker, and the “Seattle Foot” to give those hurt the ability to run and jump
• Veterans Day, a day that was originally called Armistice Day, is a time to thank and honor the men and women who have served in our military.
• When the flag is displayed next to another flag against a wall, the U.S. flag should be on its own right (on the left side when facing the wall).
• There are five states with over 1 million veterans in their population – California, Florida, Texas, New York, and Pennsylvania
• The VA healthcare system now has 171 medical centers, 126 nursing home care units, and 35 live-in care facilities
• President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the official legislation for Veterans Day on June 1, 1954, changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day
• Take a Veteran to School Day is a program that was developed by HISTORY in 2007 to connect students and veterans.
• Veterans Day is often confused with Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a time for remembering and honoring the men and women who died while serving our country, or as a result of injuries that incurred in battle. Veterans Day honors and gives thanks to all veterans who served and currently serve our country.

The Harlem Globetrotters make an appearance at Pediatric Dental Partners!

2010-11-04T13:30:00.001-07:00

Bossier City and Shreveport dentists Dr. Crawford, Dr. Wallace, Dr. Backofen, and Dr. Chidlow and our team enjoy meeting the unique dental needs of our young patients and their families in a friendly, fun and exciting atmosphere. Each year, both of our practices coordinate to plan festive group Halloween costumes to wear at the office. Our team at the Shreveport showed our Harlem spirit this year as the Harlem Globetrotters, while our Bossier City office dressed as Barbie dolls.

Our doctors and team at Pediatric Dental Partners would like to know, did you dress up for Halloween this year? We would love to hear about your Halloween costume! We also encourage all of our patients to "like" the Pediatric Dental Partners Facebook page, so that you can view the complete photo album from our Halloween celebration, and received the most updated information about our practice.

Toothbrush Trivia with Pediatric Dental Partners!

2010-10-28T11:03:00.001-07:00

People have been brushing their teeth for thousands of years! In fact, the first “toothbrush” was created around 3000BC! Ancient civilizations used a thin twig with a frayed edge to rub against their teeth for cleaning.

The first toothbrush with bristles – similar to today’s toothbrushes – was invented in 1498 in China. Brushes were made out of bone or bamboo with bristles made from the hairs on the back of a hog’s neck.

It wasn’t until 1938 that the first nylon bristle toothbrush was introduced and people quickly became aware of practicing good oral hygiene.

Here are some other interesting facts about your toothbrush (and toothpaste):
• Most people are said to use blue toothbrushes over any other color
• The first toothpaste was used in 500 BC in China and India
• On average, children smile about 400 times per day
• Your toothbrush should be replaced every two months
• The first known toothpaste was used in 1780, Crest was introduced in the US in 1955 and Colgate in 1873

What are patients saying about Pediatric Dental Partners?

2010-10-20T16:10:00.000-07:00

Pediatric Dental Partners, serving Bossier City, Shreveport and surrounding areas, has been receiving some great patient reviews lately! Check out what our current patients are saying about our doctors and team!

"All of your staff are excellent! We had a concern with one of Danielle's sealants -- they were more than happy to get us in the same day I called, and we were in and out in just a few minutes."

"All employees are doing an excellent job!!!!"

"Cindy is so wonderful with Brittany!!! We have always been treated so good by her and she does everything to make sure Brittany is comfortable!!"

Pediatric Dental Partners, protecting your child from cavities this Halloween

2010-10-13T15:51:00.000-07:00

With Halloween only two weeks away, Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen, and Chidlow know that there will soon be many tricks and treats! While this festive holiday is full of costumes and fun community activities, it can also be a harmful time for the teeth of young trick-or-treaters in our Bossier City and Shreveport neighborhoods.

With all of the sugary, sticky, and chewy treats that are often shared with trick-or-treaters, it is important to follow these simple tips to prevent cavities this Halloween:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up

For more information on cavities and good oral hygiene habits, don’t hesitate to ask our team at Pediatric Dental Partners at your next appointment.

Happy Halloween!

-Pediatric Dental Partners

October is National Dental Hygiene Month!

2010-10-07T15:26:00.000-07:00

At Pediatric Dental Partners, we just can't believe September is already over. It's fall; the leaves are turning color, the weather is crisp and cool and this month, October, marks National Dental Hygiene Month, a time for Dr. Daniel Crawford, Dr. Lauren Wallace, Dr. Shannon Backofen and Dr. Susan Chidlow to raise awareness of the benefits of a healthy beautiful smile.

This year's theme is “Healthy Habits are Easier than You Think,” which focuses on prevention. At Pediatric Dental Partners, we know everyone is busy; living a life on-the-go is difficult for most people, but our staff is here to tell you keeping a healthy mouth shouldn’t be.

Your teeth are an important part of your body, and keeping them clean helps keep your mouth and your body healthy. By taking care of your teeth, eating a balanced diet, and visiting our convenient Shreveport and Bossier City offices on a regular basis, you can have healthy teeth and an attractive smile throughout your entire life.

We encourage you to check out the ADHA's National Dental Hygiene Month website, which provides pointers on keeping your mouth clean and healthy. Lastly, has it been six months since your last visit to Pediatric Dental Partners? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to give us a call to set up an appointment.

What do you love about Pediatric Dental Partners?

2010-10-01T14:33:00.000-07:00

From your very first visit to Pediatric Dental Partners our doctors and team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by our doctors' work? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review for our Shreveport office here, or you can also write a review for our Bossier City office here. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you,

The team at Pediatric Dental Partners

Count the Floss with Pediatric Dental Partners!

2010-09-21T09:36:00.000-07:00

Now in the Pediatric Dental Partners Shreveport, LA office, we are beginning "Count the Floss," our new fall contest. The next time you're in for an appointment, be sure to make your guess at how many floss containers are in the jar for your chance to win silly bands. We're excited to read all of our patients' guesses!

As always, feel free to give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment at our Bossier City or Shreveport, LA office.

Don't forget about your gums! From Pediatric Dental Partners

2010-09-15T12:13:00.000-07:00

Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, can be difficult to recognize. Many people do not recognize the warning signs - bleeding and swollen gums - as a precursor to gum disease. This month, a national campaign is underway to raise awareness about gum health and periodontal disease, and we at Pediatric Dental Partners wanted to do our part to help spread the word!

Early recognition and action are the most important steps to health gums, and ultimately a health body too! Studies are published every year linking oral health, including the gums, to the health of other areas of the body, such as the heart. One of the most important steps to improving the care of your gums is recognizing the warning signs for gum disease. These can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with our office as soon as possible. We can take proactive steps to prevent gingivitis and gum disease, while showing you how to improve gum care in your daily oral hygiene habits.

Happy Baby Safety Month, from Pediatric Dental Partners

2010-09-08T14:48:00.000-07:00

In honor of Baby Safety Month, Bossier City and Shreveport pediatric dentists Dr. Daniel Crawford, Dr. Lauren Wallace, Dr. Shannon Backofen and Dr. Susan Chidlow would like to encourage all of our patients and their families to become educated on the importance of childproofing your home. Your child’s health and safety is of the utmost importance to our team at Pediatric Dental Partners, which is why we would like to remind all of our patients to be mindful of some of the common hazards that may be in your home.

Children are vulnerable, and it is important that you take the necessary precautions in your kitchen, bathroom, nursery, and around the home to minimize the risk to your baby. For example, never leave poisons or toxic materials under the sink where they can be easily reached by a child. In the bathroom, remember to remove soaps, razors, and shampoos from the edge of the tub and close the toilet lid. Children are naturally curious, so it is necessary that you cover all electrical outlets, keep all trash containers locked, and ensure that hanging cords from phones, lamps, and appliances are kept out of reach.

We hope that these baby safety tips help! For more tips, visit the Royal Baby Safety website. As always, feel free to give us a call if you have any questions about baby safety or pediatric dentistry for your little one.

Smile wider, live longer, from Pediatric Dental Partners

2010-09-01T17:11:00.000-07:00

Folks with big smiles may actually live than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Pediatric Dental Partners has known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting Pediatric Dental Partners on a regular basis? If not, give us a call!

Ask Pediatric Dental Partners: What’s so bad about nail biting?

2010-08-25T10:18:00.000-07:00

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at Pediatric Dental Partners found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, or Onychophagia, is a common habit that is generally triggered by stress, often decreasing with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:

• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.
• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.
• Braces don’t love it either. If you have braces, nail biting ads unnecessary pressure and further stresses your teeth and weakens their roots.
• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?

Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation. Ask Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen and Chidlow or visit this article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

Good luck!

Your friends at Pediatric Dental Partners

Pediatric Dental Partners learns to paint the fleur de lis!

2010-08-17T14:17:00.000-07:00

Our team at Pediatric Dental Partners in Shreveport and Bossier City, LA recently enjoyed a lovely evening at Painting with a Twist. Together, we learned how to paint the fleur de lis through step by step painting instructions. We had a wonderful time! Our private party was made up of about 23 staff members and friends, which were primarily from the Shreveport, LA office.

To see the complete photo album from Painting with a Twist, be sure to check out our Facebook page! Let us know what you think of our fleur de lis artwork!

-Pediatric Dental Partners

Thumb-Sucking & Your Child’s Teeth, from Pediatric Dental Partners

2010-08-09T16:46:00.000-07:00

Lots of you have asked Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen, and Chidlow about whether it’s healthy for children to suck thumbs (or, less frequently, fingers). If you’ve got a thumb-sucker in the house, you are not alone. Research tells us that between 75% and 95% of infants suck their thumbs.

Is this anything to worry about? In most cases, probably not. Sucking is a natural reflex for an infant, and can provide security and contentment as well as relaxation for your little one. It’s a habit that most kids grow out of between the ages of two and four.

However, if your child keeps sucking after he’s gotten his permanent teeth, it’s time to take a closer look. If your child sucks his thumb aggressively, putting pressure on the inside of his mouth or his teeth, it could cause problems with tooth alignment and proper mouth growth. If you’re worried, give us a call and we will help assess the situation, and provide tips for how to help your child break the habit.

Ask Pediatric Dental Partners: Is sedation dentistry right for my child?

2010-08-03T16:17:00.000-07:00

While Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen, and Chidlow, serving Bossier City and Shreveport, LA strive to offer a comfortable experience for all our patients, we realize that fear or anxiety while visiting the dentist can affect a lot of kids anyway. For patients who need extra comfort and relaxation during their dental visit, we are pleased to offer sedation dentistry.

Do you feel nervous or stressed about your upcoming dental treatment? Well you’re not alone; in fact, almost 30 percent of the population experiences "dental phobia" when faced with visiting the dentist!

The reasons for patients' fear of the dentist can be numerous, but are usually due to a traumatic experience during their childhood. This overwhelming anxiety can cause one to avoid modern dental care, resulting in poor oral hygiene and possible mouth-related issues such as gum disease.

Your child can benefit from sedation dentistry if he or she experiences one or more of the following:

* High fear of dental care
* Complex dental problems
* Traumatic dental experiences
* Fear of needles and shots
* Trouble getting numb
* Sensitive teeth

If your child suffers from dental phobia, sedation dentistry may be the answer. Please give us a call for more info about sedation dentistry, and we'll be more than happy to answer your questions.

Moooooove over gum disease, from Pediatric Dental Partners!

2010-07-29T15:25:00.000-07:00

Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen, and Chidlow want to know: Is dairy in your regular diet? If not, it should be! Our team at Pediatric Dental Partners recently came across a 2008 study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). The study results showed that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Study results also showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease.

Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese helps fight cavities. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all stimulate the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal.

Eating dairy is not only healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, and remember with each bite, you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give us a call!

Pediatric Dentistry, setting the record straight about sun safety!

2010-07-20T16:39:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like a hot summer day! Now that the heat wave is sweeping through Shreveport and Bossier City, our team at Pediatric Dental Partners thought that we would share a few sun safety tips with you, courtesy of KidsHealth. Although vitamin D is essential for absorbing calcium, there can be serious health affects if you aren't prepared for the heat. That's why our doctors here at Pediatric Dental Partners want to help keep you informed about sun safety!

Sun Safety 101: What to know about UVA, VVB, and UVC rays

1. UVA rays- These rays make of the majority of sun exposure, and can contribute to skin cancer, skin aging, and wrinkling.

2. UVB rays- Known for causing sunburns, cataracts, and immune system damage, these powerful rays are linked with Melanoma (the most dangerous form of skin cancer).

3. UVC rays- Lucky for you, these rays are shielded by the ozone layer and don't reach earth!

To protect yourself from these harmful rays, try to avoid the sun between 10am to 4pm, when it is the most prominent! If you do choose to spend time in the sun, remember to cover up, apply generous amounts of SPF 15 or higher sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours, stay hydrated, and use protective eyewear! Also, remember to check your child's medications for sun sensitivity.

Have a fun & safe week,

- Your friends at Pediatric Dental Partners

Government sites your child should check out this summer, from Pediatric Dental Partners

2010-07-12T11:57:00.000-07:00

It may be summer in Bossier City and Shreveport, LA, but that doesn't mean that your child's learning should take a break. Summer reading can be vital to the vocabulary and critical thinking skills of your child. That's why Pediatric Dental Partners and our team thought that we would point your child towards a few helpful websites that will help keep their minds sharp this summer, courtesy of our friends at More4Kids.

Here are 12 helpful websites that we think your child will love! Let us know what you think or if you have any great government websites to share!

Happy learning,

The team at Pediatric Dental Partners

Your friend, fluoride!

2010-07-07T09:55:00.000-07:00

Our team at Pediatric Dental Partners knows that you want to protect your pearly whites during orthodontic treatment. Brushing teeth twice a day, flossing regularly, and protecting your mouth and appliances from damage are all ways of taking care of your mouth. Did you know that there is another, often forgotten, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during treatment? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement.

Fluoride used in the dentist/orthodontists’ office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask your doctor how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Your doctor may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

With Pediatric Dental Partners, 24/7 access to your account

2010-06-30T11:28:00.000-07:00

At Pediatric Dental Partners, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the cutting edge orthodontic treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern Louisiana offices.

Did you know that patients at our office have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

Take a look at a few patient reviews about this service:

"I like being able to sign on from New York and check my daughter's ex-ray's and also check our account information."

"I'm able to check appointments and balances. I can tell what the insurance paid and what my balance is."

"I love all of the information it gives me."

"I can never seem to find time to make all the important phone calls and the website is accessible after hours and at a time convenient to me."

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button at the top of our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

Smile wider, live longer, from Pediatric Dental Partners

2010-06-24T07:20:00.000-07:00

Folks with big smiles may actually live than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. We have known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer!

Count the Qtips To Win at Pediatric Dental Partners

2010-06-18T07:15:00.000-07:00

Every week, our Bossier City office holds a contest- guess the correct number of Qtips for a chance to win an Oral B electric toothbrush! Congratulations to Katherine V. for being our most recent winner. Stop by the Bossier City Office for your chance to win!

--The Pediatric Dental Partners of Bossier City and Shreveport

The importance of mouth guards, from Pediatric Dental Partners

2010-06-09T17:36:00.000-07:00

With summer rapidly approaching, the team at Pediatric Dental Partners understands the importance of being outside. So we are starting a series on outdoor activities and how to be safe while having fun in the sun. This week we talk about mouth guards, what they are, when to use them, the works. If you have any additional questions, give us a call). We'd love to hear from you!

Q: What are athletic mouth protectors?

A: Athletic mouth protectors, or mouth guards, are made of soft plastic. They are adapted to fit comfortably to the shape of the upper teeth.

Q: Why are mouth guards important?

A: Mouth guards hold top priority as sports equipment. They protect not just the teeth, but the lips, cheeks, and tongue. They help protect children from such head and neck injuries as concussions and jaw fractures. Increasingly, organized sports are requiring mouth guards to prevent injury to their athletes. Research shows that most oral injuries occur when athletes are not wearing mouth protection.

Q: When should my child wear a mouth guard?

A: Whenever he or she is in an activity with a risk of falls or of head contact with other players or equipment. This includes football, baseball, basketball, soccer, hockey, skateboarding, even gymnastics. We usually think of football and hockey as the most dangerous to the teeth, but nearly half of sports-related mouth injuries occur in basketball and baseball.

Q: How do I choose a mouth guard for my child?

A: Any mouth guard works better than no mouth guard. So, choose a mouth guard that your child can wear comfortably. If a mouth guard feels bulky or interferes with speech, it will be left in the locker room.

You can select from several options in mouth guards. First, preformed or "boil-to-fit" mouth guards are found in sports stores. Different types and brands vary in terms of comfort, protection, and cost. Second, customized mouth guards can also be created for your child. These can be more comfortable and more effective in preventing injuries. Any of our doctors or team at the Pediatric Dental Partners can advise you on what type of mouth guard is best for your child. Give us a call today!

Pediatric Dental Partners, supporting National Smile Month

2010-06-03T09:29:00.000-07:00

Now that we’re in June, our staff at Pediatric Dental Partners thought we’d tell you June is National Smile Month, and a good time to remind all our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to see us!

Below are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth.
* Limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks.
* Visit us regularly!

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call. We hope you enjoyed the long holiday weekend!

What do you love about Pediatric Dental Partners?

2010-05-26T14:07:00.000-07:00

From your very first visit to Pediatric Dental Partners of Shreveport and Bossier City, We strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: What did you think about your experience? Did our team go out of their way to make your or your child's day?

Whether you’ve just come in for the first time or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you,

-The doctors and staff of Pediatric Dental Partners

Baby teeth – and gums – need special care!

2010-05-19T18:20:00.001-07:00

Mr. Bean goes to the dentist!

2010-05-12T16:17:00.000-07:00

How about a treat today? Here's a little classic dental humor for you to enjoy, from the bumbling yet lovable Mr. Bean. We loved it, and know you'll get a laugh as well. Enjoy "Mr. Bean Goes to the Dentist”!

If you have any other video suggestions you think we should share with other patients, please let us know!

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month!

2010-05-06T17:26:00.000-07:00

Did you know the month of May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to incorporate more activity into our lives. The reminder is even more significant today as people are more distracted by television, social networking, video games and working more hours. Living an active lifestyle can improve physical and mental health, productivity and overall well-being. The best part? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time or effort.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these public health guidelines for your reference. The guidelines call for people to exercise one hour every day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope).

At Pediatric Dental Partners, we always encourage our patients to exercise or participate in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection when doing so. To learn more about how often you should exercise, we recommend you check out these helpful tips, courtesy of our friends at the American Heart Association.

Ask Pediatric Dental Partners: Which toothbrush should my child use?

2010-04-20T17:25:00.001-07:00

Here at Pediatric Dental Partners, we will tell you that brushing your teeth is one of the easiest methods of cavity prevention. But which type of toothbrush should your child use? When choosing a toothbrush, look for round-ended (polished) bristles that clean while being gentle on the gums. Choose one that is specifically designed for children's smaller mouths and hands. Also, look for large handles that can help children control the toothbrush. Lastly, throw out a toothbrush after three months or sooner if the bristles are fraying. Frayed bristles have the ability to harm your gums, and are not as effective in cleaning teeth.

As far as which toothpaste is best? It doesn't matter as long as it has fluoride in it. However, for small children who tend to swallow toothpaste, do not use fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure to touch each tooth and every side of that tooth. Also, you do need to gently brush on your gums.

To learn more about choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your child, we encourage you to read this helpful article from Parenthood.com. Or, you may give us a call and we'll try to answer any question you may have about keeping your child's mouth as healthy as possible!

-Pediatric Dental Partners of Bossier City and Shreveport, LA

How to ease dental fears in children, from The Pediatric Dental Partners of Bossier City and Shreveport

2010-04-15T07:37:00.000-07:00

We know that many children have fear when it comes to visiting the dentist. Our team at Pediatric Dental Partners found a great article on how to help kids overcome fears of the dentist, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Making your child feel comfortable when they visit our office is a huge reason to take your child to a pediatric dentist instead of a regular dentist. Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen, and Chidlow excel at making children feel comfortable visiting the dentist. In fact, most of our patients look forward to their next visit!
Has your child visited us in the last six months? If not, it’s time to schedule an appointment!

Regular Checkups are Essential in Maintaining Good Oral Health

2010-04-09T14:39:00.000-07:00

Is your child brushing their teeth twice a day? If yes, that’s great; but, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit us every six months in addition to brushing teeth and flossing. Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, and setting good oral hygiene habits for life!

Pediatric Dental Partners can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show your child how to properly brush and floss their teeth.

During an oral exam we can check the health of the mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. If you haven't brought your child in for an appointment in the last six months, then it's time to give us a call!

Getting social with Pediatric Dental Partners

2010-03-25T15:29:00.000-07:00

At Pediatric Dental Partners, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the treatments we offer, our high-tech web site or our Facebook fan page. As you can probably tell, we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our fan page. For social media to work, we understand that conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks are hugely popular these days, we know they’re unpredictable and ever-changing.

While we take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please post your thoughts or give us a call!

-The Pediatric Dental Partners

A Sour Smile is not a Happy Smile

2010-03-19T12:31:00.000-07:00

It’s no secret that sweet, sugary candies and drinks have an adverse effect of the health of your smile, but what about sour or tart candies? At Pediatric Dental Partners, we thought you might want to know what kind of an effect does eating or drinking something sour have on my smile?

Recent research from the Minnesota Dental Association suggests that the amount of acid in sour candies is enough to eat away at tooth enamel and cause cavities. Here are a few souring facts about sour candies, and some helpful tips on how to protect your teeth (even if you cannot give up sour candies all together).

Facts

-Sour candies can be very acidic, and may actually burn the gums and cheeks, while weakening and wearing down the enamel on your teeth. (Check the acid levels in some of your favorite candies)

-It can take almost 20 minutes for the acid in sour candies to become neutral. Holding the acid in your mouth by sucking on sour hard candies or chewing sour gummies can keep the acid active for more than 20 minutes.

-The acid in sour candies can cause cavities and severe tooth decay.

Protect your teeth

-Limit the amount of sour candies that you eat on a daily basis, and if you do indulge, remember not to suck or chew on sour candies for long periods of time.

-After eating sour candies, rinse your mouth out with water, drink milk, or eat a couple slices of cheese. This will help neutralize the acid in your mouth (wait at least one hour before brushing your teeth with toothpaste, as this can actually increase the effects of acid on your teeth)

-If tooth erosion has already begun, ask your dentist about ways you can help reduce sensitivity and continue to protect your teeth.

Hope this helps!

Take our soda POP QUIZ!

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Pediatric Dental Partners wants to know, where does all that soda pop go?

On average, the typical person consumes over 50 gallons of soda pop per year! The amount of acid and sugar found in a can of soda can cause serious tooth decay and lead to cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss!

We know that you don’t want to lose your teeth, so take the soda pop quiz, presented by the Minnesota Dental Association, and learn more about how to keep your smile healthy.

It’s a fun interactive quiz, so enjoy!

March is National Nutrition Month!

2010-03-05T17:22:00.000-08:00

March has arrived, and that can only mean one thing: it’s National Nutrition Month. Every March, we and thousands of dentists and hygienists celebrate National Nutrition Month. This March, Pediatric Dental Partners want you to think diabetes, obesity and periodontal disease, and how healthful eating and physical activity may improve periodontal health.
Small changes really can make a big difference, and the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has some advice on ways to start improving your diet this March:

• Focus on fruits and vegetables: Add a serving each day to one meal and increase it every few weeks. Adding more of these foods into your diet is important whether you buy frozen, fresh or organic.

• Think fresh, think local: From farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods in your area.

• Make every calorie count: When you are choosing between options, focus instead on the one with more of the vitamins and nutrients that you need. Sometimes, foods with fewer calories aren’t always the healthiest options.

• It’s tempting, but…: If you have a sweet tooth, have fruit and yogurt for dessert. If you crave a snack in the afternoon, enjoy some trail mix or nuts.

• Expand your horizons: Try a fish you’ve never eaten before or find a new vegetable recipe. By testing yourself, you might find new healthy favorites to add to your regular grocery list.

If you have additional questions about periodontal disease or keeping yourself and your mouth healthy, please give us a call!

Pediatric Dental Partners, reminding you February is National Children’s Dental Health Month

2010-02-22T14:55:00.000-08:00

Every February for the past 60 years, the American Dental Association, or ADA, has sponsored National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. National Children's Dental Health Month began as a one-day event in 1941 in a Cleveland clinic and in 1991 was extended to a month-long celebration known today as National Children’s Dental Health Month.

Each February, Drs. Crawford, Chidlow, Backofen and Wallace, as well as thousands of dental professionals focus on the preventive oral care of America's children. Our doctors and staff want you to remember developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Has your child visited Pediatric Dental Partners the past six months? If not, it’s time to give us a call and schedule an appointment!

Talking cavities, with Pediatric Dental Partners

2010-02-17T16:33:00.000-08:00

One word no parent wants to hear when they visit Pediatric Dental Partners is 'cavity.' That’s right, that dreaded cavity. But what exactly is a cavity and how do we get them? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger, our doctors say.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by Drs. Crawford, Wallace, Backofen or Chidlow, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit Pediatric Dental Partners every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up!

If you have any questions about cavities, or your treatment at Pediatric Dental Partners, we encourage you to give us a call!

Ask Pediatric Dental Partners: When should my child come in for a visit?

2010-02-09T09:03:00.000-08:00

We believe a child's first visit to the dentist should be enjoyable and positive. The more you and your child know about the first visit, the better you will feel. Children are not born with a fear of the dentist, but they can fear the unknown. And that's precisely why the team at Pediatric Dental Partners makes a practice of using pleasant, non-frightening, simple words to describe your child's first dental visit and treatment. We want you to feel at ease from the moment your family arrives at our office.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), children should visit Pediatric Dental Partners by their first birthday. It is important that your child's newly-erupted teeth (erupting at 6-12 months of age) receive proper dental care and benefit from proper oral hygiene habits right from the beginning. For more information on the advantages of pediatric dentistry at Pediatric Dental Partners, please visit our "Dentistry for Children" page or give us a call today to schedule an appointment. Enjoy the rest of your week!

Meet Our Dentists

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Dr. Daniel Crawford graduated from Haughton High School in 1970 and from Louisiana Tech University in 1974. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Louisiana State University in 1978. After a two-year residency in New Orleans he received a certificate in Pediatric Dentistry in 1987.

Dr. Crawford joined Dr. James R. Lang in 1987 and they practiced together until Dr. Lang's retirement in 2004. Dr. Crawford is an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, The Louisiana Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, The Southwestern Society of Pediatric Dentistry, The American Dental Association, The Louisiana Dental Association, and the Northwest Louisiana Dental Association.

He is married to Gretchen Scherf Crawford, and has four children, John Aaron, Hunter, David and Natalie.

Dr. Lauren Wallace attended Tulane University and then Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge majoring in Microbiology. She then attended LSU School of Dentistry in New Orleans in 1989 and graduated in 1993. From 1993 to 1995 Dr. Wallace did her Pediatric Dental Residency at LSU School of Dentistry. In 1995, Dr. Lauren Wallace moved with her husband, Matt Wallace, to Shreveport. She joined Dr. James R. Lang and Daniel A. Crawford at Pediatric Dental Partners in July 1995.

Dr. Wallace is an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, Southwestern Society of Pediatric Dentistry, and the Northwest Louisiana Dental Association.

Dr. Lauren Wallace is married to Matt Wallace from Lake Charles, Louisiana. They have two children, Cameron, and Alden. She enjoys spending time with her family, likes to run, and is an active member of her church.

Dr. Shannon Backofen graduated from Louisiana Tech University and received her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry, Memphis in 1992. After a two-year residency from 1994-1996 at Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas, she received her certificate in Pediatric Dentistry.

Dr. Backofen joined with Dr's. Lang, Crawford, and Wallace in 1996 to become Dr's. Lang, Crawford, Wallace, and Backofen, Pediatric Dental Partners, LLP.

Dr. Backofen is an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Southwestern Society of Pediatric Dentistry, Paul P. Taylor Pediatric Dental Association, American Dental Association, Louisiana Dental Association, and the Northwest Louisiana Dental Association.

She is married to Mike Backofen of Bossier City and has two children, Kyle and Megan.

Dr. Susan Chidlow is a native of Shreveport and a former patient at Pediatric Dental Partners. She attended C.E. Byrd High School in Shreveport and LSU Baton Rouge for her undergraduate degree. She earned her dental degree at LSU School of Dentistry. Dr. Chidlow was then accepted into the Pediatric Dental Residency Program at LSUSD and graduated in 2004. She was the recipient of numerous awards and honors such as the LDA Outstanding Senior Dental Student of the Year 2002, LSUSD Pediatric Dentistry Award 2002, Oral Medicine Award 2002, and the Pharmacology Award 2002.

Dr. Chidlow is an active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, Louisiana Dental Association, Northwest Louisiana Dental Association and the Southwestern Society of Pediatric Dentistry.

Dr. Chidlow returned from New Orleans in August of 2004, where she had been a practicing Pediatric Dentist with Dr. William Carlisle and Dr. Aubrey Baudean. Dr. Chidlow joined the practice of Dr's. Crawford, Wallace, and Backofen with Pediatric Dental Partners, LLP in August of 2005.

Dr. Chidlow is married to Dan Gray of Shreveport.