What are fissure sealants?

Fissure sealants are clear or coloured plastic coatings that give a protective layer to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. They are quick and painless to apply and can protect the teeth for many years. Fissure sealants are generally advised by your dentist if your child has deep fissures on their molar teeth or if they have experienced decay in their other teeth.

Discoloured baby teeth

“Discoloured teeth can be a sign of an enamel developmental problem (hypomineralisation), which means there is either a genetic background or that there was a problem when the tooth developed,” says Dr Sturzenbaum. Caries and plaque, however, can also cause discoloured teeth so it is always best to consult a dentist.

My child’s new front teeth look wonky

Your child has probably reached the ‘ugly duckling’ stage between 9-11 years when the permanent canines are coming through. “You can often find movement in the front teeth at this stage as the front teeth move to the side. Your dentist can check the position around age 9 and may advise an orthodontic opinion if necessary.

Knocking out a tooth by accident

Baby teeth – If your child knocks out a milk tooth never try to push it back in as you may damage the permanent tooth that is already forming. “You should always go to the dentist to check the baby tooth is completely out and there isn’t a bone fracture or any other bone/soft tissue trauma,” says Dr Sturzenbaum. If your child loses a baby tooth more than 2 years before they naturally would then the adult tooth may take longer to come through.

Adult teeth – “Push it straight back in as the cells on the root start to die immediately. If it’s dirty don’t worry too much about cleaning it as you could damage the cells. The first 10 minutes are crucial,” says Dr Sturzenbaum. Never touch the root! “If you can’t push it back in then put it in milk and get to a hospital that has a maxillofacial department or a paediatric dentist,” adds Miss Johnson.