baby teeth

[OphthoBean]

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Hi.

My 8 mo old baby just sprouted a tooth!

Do I need to take him to the dentist? Or rather, when should I first take him to the dentist?

Also, do I need to brush the little nubbin in the meantime? If so, how often should this be done and with what? Should I get those special toothbrushes and paste or just wipe it down with gauze or a washcloth or something?

If he nurses in the middle of the night, is it okay for him to not have his tooth brushed or is it gonna rot away if I do nothing?

Sorry about all the questions, but I am a freak about tooth cleanliness and I want to make sure I do the right thing for his tooth and future teeth. Unfortunately my parenting book doesn't have much to say about baby dental issues.

 

[tx oms]

Pediatric dentists would tell you the first dental appt should come soon after the first tooth erupts or at age 1 year, which ever comes first. Personally, I think that's a waste of money. I'd love it if all 16 y/o would come to me for wisdom tooth extraction.

You can wipe the baby's tooth and mouth out with a clean, moist wash cloth. One tooth can be cleaned pretty easily with a wash cloth--I don't think you need to brush. After the child gets a few more teeth you may need to switch to a brush. Remeber to use pediatric toothpaste with no fluoride. You will need to brush your child's teeth until they are about 5-6 years old. Let them play around first, then do it right yourself.

I'd take the child to a dentist around age 2. Anything earlier really just serves to orient you and the child to dentist. At age two the dentist might get to examine the pt for about 45 seconds.

 

[Biogirl361]

I'd take them to the dentist right away, as per the pediatric dentists. The first visit as soon as they get teeth is mostly to give you some important information about what you should be doing to take care of baby's teeth and to determine his risk of getting caries later on. the pedo can also answer any questions you might have about what to expect during these developmental stages of his mouth. And yes, it serves to orient you and the baby and the dentist to each other and start developing a relationship where you will have someone to call on if you ever have any more questions or any sort of dental emergency for the baby (if he falls and cracks his tooth or something, etc.) I'm pretty sure if the baby was low risk for caries they would probably tell you to have him come back once a year just to make sure everything's going smoothly. When I shadowed a pedo I saw some people who brought their kids in for a first visit at age 5 because that's what all their freinds said to do, and the kid already needed several teeth worked on.

 

[AUG2UAG]

give the kid some listerine and alcohol to clean off all the "unwanted" bacteria... that should solve the problem!! hehe, just kidding... i disagree with the above poster(s) about visiting a dentist yet, unless you've got insurance or are willing to fork over the cash. just do simple things such as not giving any milk and/or honey at night... don't know about the rest (yet) and you should consult accordingly. however, make sure the teeth are coming in straight... early intervention will save you tons of $$$ in the long run.

 

[tx oms]

I'd take them to the dentist right away, as per the pediatric dentists. The first visit as soon as they get teeth is mostly to give you some important information about what you should be doing to take care of baby's teeth and to determine his risk of getting caries later on. the pedo can also answer any questions you might have about what to expect during these developmental stages of his mouth. And yes, it serves to orient you and the baby and the dentist to each other and start developing a relationship where you will have someone to call on if you ever have any more questions or any sort of dental emergency for the baby (if he falls and cracks his tooth or something, etc.) I'm pretty sure if the baby was low risk for caries they would probably tell you to have him come back once a year just to make sure everything's going smoothly. When I shadowed a pedo I saw some people who brought their kids in for a first visit at age 5 because that's what all their freinds said to do, and the kid already needed several teeth worked on.

Or, save your money and learn some of these things on your own. As a physician I'm sure you can find this info without paying a dentist to give it to you in their office.

 

[Biogirl361]

If you were to decide to hold off on going to the dentist right away and try to learn some of the recommendations for yourself, here is a page I found by the pediatric dental council that seems to have some good info and have a lot of the things they would probably talk to you about during the first visit (actually the whole website has good stuff if you click on all the links and look around). Also remember that if by chance you have a lot of cavities yourself you should try to limit sharing spoons or anyting that would pass the harmful bacteria from your mouth to his. I still say you just go in and talk to the dentist though..

 

[KY2007]

Start cleaning the tooth 2 times per day with a damp cloth or a pediatric tooth brush, whatevers easiest for you to use. Don't waste your money on pedo toothpaste, just rinse the brush off with water. No fluoride (fluoridated toothpaste) before age 2 and after that just apply a pea sized amount of toothpaste on the toothbrush. Supervision of your child's brushing is recommended until at least age 6 to make sure he/she is doing a good job and is not swallowing the toothpaste. To ensure good oral health don't put your baby to bed with with a bottle. As far as when you should take your child to the dentist, definitely by age 2. If you have any concerns or questions then feel free to go see the pediadontist. Starting early will nip any dental problems in the bud and should also help reduce any dental fears. Another tip. To clean the baby's teeth (this also applies to you), use a soft bristle toothbrush. Scrubbing is unwanted. Being gentle with your teeth and gingiva (gums) will help prevent recession.

 

[Cudental007]

it's recommended to have the first dental visit 6 mos after the first tooth erupts.


congrats!
CUdental007 😛

 

[cusp of carabelli]

just do simple things such as not giving any milk and/or honey at night... QUOTE]

i wouldn't be giving the kid honey at all for risk of poisoning by c. botulinum. I would take the child to visit the dentist as soon as the first tooth comes out. at least some x-rays may be taken to determine how the other teeth are developing and if there might be any problems in the future. Also it would be good to help the child establish a good relationship with the dentist so that in any future visits, the child won't be afraid. If the child sees the dentist and sees that there is no fear, it may save everybody some headaches in the future... 😀

 

[aphistis]

just do simple things such as not giving any milk and/or honey at night... QUOTE]

i wouldn't be giving the kid honey at all for risk of poisoning by c. botulinum. I would take the child to visit the dentist as soon as the first tooth comes out. at least some x-rays may be taken to determine how the other teeth are developing and if there might be any problems in the future. Also it would be good to help the child establish a good relationship with the dentist so that in any future visits, the child won't be afraid. If the child sees the dentist and sees that there is no fear, it may save everybody some headaches in the future... 😀

For what it's worth, I agree that the little squirt should get in to a dentist sometime soon just to have a look and make sure everything is humming along OK.

From a psychological standpoint, though, the suggestions about "forming a positive relationship with the dentist for later" are totally bunk. You don't have the neural wiring for processing such an isolated event (the lack of repetition is as causative as the early developmental stage of the brain) and storing a cogent memory of it when you're that young.

References:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=446200&dopt=Abstract

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/...ve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=12621653

 

[ItsGavinC]

it's recommended to have the first dental visit 6 mos after the first tooth erupts.

I'm not familiar with anybody recommending that specifically.

The AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) recommends a child have an oral evaluation by 6 mo. of age, and have a "dental home" by 1 year of age. A "dental home" being a place where service may be provided should the need arise.

The AAPD (American Academy of Pediatric Dentists) recommends an examination after the first tooth erupts, or by one year of age (as was already mentioned).

 

[ItsGavinC]

To the OP: A visit ASAP may not do much for the oral health of the child, but it may prepare them for future visits, which would be of benefit.

 

[ItsGavinC]

From a psychological standpoint, though, the suggestions about "forming a positive relationship with the dentist for later" are totally bunk. You don't have the neural wiring for processing such an isolated event (the lack of repetition is as causative as the early developmental stage of the brain) and storing a cogent memory of it when you're that young.

I won't read your references, because I think you're operating on a much too narrow view. It may be true that it won't help to form a positive relationship with the dentist specifically, but it WILL help the child to accept and form positive relationships with other non-familiar-but-acceptable adults.

Non-familiar-but-acceptable adults are "strangers" to a child, but ones introduced by the parent. Physicians, dentists, speech therapists, babysitters, etc. all fall under this catergory.

The single isolated visit won't do much for this, but the constant repitition of placing the child in the care of another adult WILL assist the child in building social relationships with other adults. This IS vital in future dental visits.

 

[Cudental007]

I'm not familiar with anybody recommending that specifically.

The AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) recommends a child have an oral evaluation by 6 mo. of age, and have a "dental home" by 1 year of age. A "dental home" being a place where service may be provided should the need arise.

The AAPD (American Academy of Pediatric Dentists) recommends an examination after the first tooth erupts, or by one year of age (as was already mentioned).

for my previous post i was not quoting a specific organization. however, i need to mention that my source was an instructor of mine- a pediatric dentist. 🙂 Also, considering the avg age that the first tooth erupts-mand CI, approx 6-10 mos, puts the first visit at around 1 y.o anyway. 👍

CUdental007

 

[AUG2UAG]

just do simple things such as not giving any milk and/or honey at night...

i wouldn't be giving the kid honey at all for risk of poisoning by c. botulinum.

no honey?? what's the world coming to??
i guess no more gerber's either, right?

ps- i did recommend a consultation... the people in dental school are much more knowledgeable, as you can tell. as a side note, i don't buy the "organization told me to do this" schpeel because they're looking out for their best interest. if there's anything that i can tell you about teeth, please make sure that they come in straight-- it'll help with the dental school interviews 👍

pps- i would double check this with another source before committing:

[...] at least some x-rays may be taken to determine how the other teeth are developing and if there might be any problems in the future.

 

[ItsGavinC]

no honey?? what's the world coming to??

Well, it's been like this for a while (the honey issue, not the world!). No honey before age 1.

 

[AUG2UAG]

Well, it's been like this for a while (the honey issue, not the world!). No honey before age 1.

i stand corrected-- you live and you learn

 

[AUG2UAG]

If the child sees the dentist and sees that there is no fear, it may save everybody some headaches in the future... 😀

you know what? i agree with this due to personal memory and experience. i was always at ease at the dentists office, thus, my decision to enter the field and i would definately want it to be the same for your child. a visit at the office would not hurt and, if anything, would have a better chance of establishing comfort for your baby... sorry i wasted thread space, i guess i should crawl back to my pre-dental lair-- ciao!!
ps- i'm still a stickler for getting those teeth to come in straight via early intervention... i had a retainer for my baby teeth and have not had the need for braces as an adolescent/young adult/adult

 

[DcS]

i had a retainer for my baby teeth and have not had the need for braces as an adolescent/young adult/adult

That pretty much has little relevance. You probably had some sort of space maintenance which "helps" guide your teeth into the general areas they should be in but whether or not they are straight depends on a myriad of factors. There is no way to "preventatively" tx primary teeth to negate the later need for braces.

 

[aphistis]

I won't read your references, because I think you're operating on a much too narrow view. It may be true that it won't help to form a positive relationship with the dentist specifically, but it WILL help the child to accept and form positive relationships with other non-familiar-but-acceptable adults.

Non-familiar-but-acceptable adults are "strangers" to a child, but ones introduced by the parent. Physicians, dentists, speech therapists, babysitters, etc. all fall under this catergory.

The single isolated visit won't do much for this, but the constant repitition of placing the child in the care of another adult WILL assist the child in building social relationships with other adults. This IS vital in future dental visits.

In that case, Gavin, you're talking about an expensive socialization. Any six-month-old is going to have spent its entire life being passed around to unfamiliar relatives already, so I don't think the marginal yield from going to the dentist will amount to much.

 

[Jediwendell]

OK, time for me to chime in. As a pediatric dentist there are reasons why we want to see the kiddo at "firtst tooth, first year, first visit." First of all no one has even mentioned at-will breast feading to this parent. There's a reason we call it "early childhood caries" now instead of baby bottle decay. I have seen many 16 month olds with decalcification on the facials of the anteriors on children who are breast fed. unfortunatly breast milk has similar cariogenic capabilities as cows milk. That would be the number one reason why
I would want to see this kiddo at 1 so we can discuss this. I am a proponent of breast feeding, don't get me wrong, but once the teeth are in this is an issue. Also, I can't tell you how many 16 month olds I have taken to the OR to fix the 4 anteriors, some I've even had to extract due to severe caries. Isn't it better to get these kids in early to discuss and prevent caries than having them come in to the office at 3 for there first visit with rampant decay?
And what everyone has been saying about helping them adjust to the environment is true. When I see kiddos for their first visit by 1 or 2 they are usually great kids, willing to do x-rays and prophy by 3. Now if I see them at 3 or 4 for their first visit they are usually scared to death and even harder to examine than a 1 year old. And getting x-rays and doing a cleaning is then pushed off even further. And they are more likely to have decay when we do get x-rays cause I'm missed out on years of talking bad about sugar.
And yes, we do want to develop a "dental home" where parents can come with questions or if there is an emergency. If a one year old looks health and isn't high risk I will put them on a one year recall. I promise you it's not about us wanting more money. I don't make squat on a 1 year old exam.

Emily- pediatric dentist and wife of jediwendell

 

[Darksunshine]

OK, time for me to chime in. As a pediatric dentist there are reasons why we want to see the kiddo at "firtst tooth, first year, first visit." First of all no one has even mentioned at-will breast feading to this parent. There's a reason we call it "early childhood caries" now instead of baby bottle decay. I have seen many 16 month olds with decalcification on the facials of the anteriors on children who are breast fed. unfortunatly breast milk has similar cariogenic capabilities as cows milk. That would be the number one reason why
I would want to see this kiddo at 1 so we can discuss this. I am a proponent of breast feeding, don't get me wrong, but once the teeth are in this is an issue. Also, I can't tell you how many 16 month olds I have taken to the OR to fix the 4 anteriors, some I've even had to extract due to severe caries. Isn't it better to get these kids in early to discuss and prevent caries than having them come in to the office at 3 for there first visit with rampant decay?
And what everyone has been saying about helping them adjust to the environment is true. When I see kiddos for their first visit by 1 or 2 they are usually great kids, willing to do x-rays and prophy by 3. Now if I see them at 3 or 4 for their first visit they are usually scared to death and even harder to examine than a 1 year old. And getting x-rays and doing a cleaning is then pushed off even further. And they are more likely to have decay when we do get x-rays cause I'm missed out on years of talking bad about sugar.
And yes, we do want to develop a "dental home" where parents can come with questions or if there is an emergency. If a one year old looks health and isn't high risk I will put them on a one year recall. I promise you it's not about us wanting more money. I don't make squat on a 1 year old exam.

Emily- pediatric dentist and wife of jediwendell

I like how you answered this. There is so MUCH mis-information in the world. (Not just dentistry and opinions on it.) And being a parent of 2 kids, I can tell you the earlier they are seen the better. Being a parent is a huge responsiblity not to mention that YOU DON'T KNOW EVERYTHING and are winging it sometimes. But then again, I am a hygienist (soon to be dentist-HURRAY!) so hence why I am 200% believer in PREVENTATIVE medicine. The human race loves to wait till there are very few alternatives left to them to fix what a little before hand knowledge would have solved with minimal ENERGY on everyone's part.

 

[AUG2UAG]

hey dark, you said "anal"... cool
and if my hygienist ever thinks she is better than anyone, including the patients... I WILL FIRE HER A$$

 

[Darksunshine]

hey dark, you said "anal"... cool
and if my hygienist ever thinks she is better than anyone, including the patients... I WILL FIRE HER A$$

Well good luck with that, because if your posts here are any indication of what kind of boss you are going to be then you are going to have a hard time keeping anyone with more than a half a brain cell.

Most dentist strongly rely on their hygienists intelligence and expertise in the perio arena. The dental office is about TEAM WORK, not the dentist LORDING HIS ALL KNOWING AUTHORITY OVER OTHERS.

And since you don't have any experience yet with that field you are far from able to comment on it. Also calling a smart female a hoe because they point out that this forum is about sharing information not being each other's ENGLISH professor's is a real lack of character and shows a LOT of ego on your part.

Good luck keeping your employees with your "anal" attitude.

 

[Darksunshine]

hey dark, you said "anal"... cool
and if my hygienist ever thinks she is better than anyone, including the patients... I WILL FIRE HER A$$

Also where did I SAY in my post that I (a hygienist) was better than ANYONE??? You need TO READ the words on the page, buddy. DENTAL PROFESSIONALS obviously need to KNOW more than the patient about TEETH.... DUH! We are SUPPOSED TO GIVE THEM OUR ADVICE. So get off your personal attack of me, OK, already.

So according to you, all dental professional's must think they are better than ANYONE...

Sheeeeesh, there is no reasoning with you because you are not rational.

 

[AUG2UAG]

you need to take a chill pill... i didn't say that you said you're better than anyone, in fact i didn't even know you're a hygienist, i just made an off the wall comment and freakin' wow!! i must have hit the spot w/ you!! btw, great colors... black is very becoming of you.

ps-
preventative is not a word, just like strategery is not one either

pps- i'm not "anal"- but you're a dark and evil person... as dark as your unholy anal canal... i'm sure your lack of a better attitude will cause you much grief and only worsen conditions you already regret
oh and one last thing... does anyone happen to know if it's fun to be a single mom. i would imagine it sucks, but then again, i'm a man that wouldn't have bastard children... please let me know, thanks.

hey dark, you said "anal"... cool
and if my hygienist ever thinks she is better than anyone, including the patients... I WILL FIRE HER A$$

Well good luck with that, because if your posts here are any indication of what kind of boss you are going to be then you are going to have a hard time keeping anyone with more than a half a brain cell.

Most dentist strongly rely on their hygienists intelligence and expertise in the perio arena. The dental office is about TEAM WORK, not the dentist LORDING HIS ALL KNOWING AUTHORITY OVER OTHERS.

And since you don't have any experience yet with that field you are far from able to comment on it. Also calling a smart female a hoe because they point out that this forum is about sharing information not being each other's ENGLISH professor's is a real lack of character and shows a LOT of ego on your part.

Good luck keeping your employees with your "anal" attitude.

 

[Darksunshine]

you need to take a chill pill... i didn't say that you said you're better than anyone, in fact i didn't even know you're a hygienist, i just made an off the wall comment and freakin' wow!! i must have hit the spot w/ you!! btw, great colors... black is very becoming of you.

ps-
preventative is not a word, just like strategery is not one either

pps- i'm not "anal"- but you're a dark and evil person... as dark as your unholy anal canal... i'm sure your lack of a better attitude will cause you much grief and only worsen conditions you already regret

Open your eyes dude. Your reply to my post that says I am hygienist and then immediately following it you BASH hygienists.

Preventative is a WORD, and it is USED in dentistry all the time.

And hey, keep bashing me, you only make yourself look like an "angel".

👍

 

[aphistis]

Time for a few deep cleansing breaths, kids.

And, incidentally...

pre·ven·tive ( P ) Pronunciation Key (pr-vntv) also pre·ven·ta·tive (-t-tv)
adj.
Intended or used to prevent or hinder; acting as an obstacle: preventive measures.
Carried out to deter expected aggression by hostile forces.
Preventing or slowing the course of an illness or disease; prophylactic: preventive medicine; preventive health care.

 

[tx oms]

 

[Darksunshine]

oh and one last thing... does anyone happen to know if it's fun to be a single mom. i would imagine it sucks, but then again, i'm a man that wouldn't have bastard children... please let me know, thanks.

Hmmm. My children aren't anymore bastard's than It'sGavinC's kids. Not sure what your point is here... Oh wait, you don't have one. Last time I checked the dictionary-which I do often around you a bastard is a child born out of wedlock. Not sure how that relates to this discussion of "baby teeth" but you really should learn to stay on point Aug2uag and learn to play well with others while still having an opinion.

Grow up buddy, clearly when you stoop to name calling and maligning someone's children you NEED to be booted.

 

[AUG2UAG]

all to have a new ip you stank hoe

 

[Darksunshine]

all to have a new ip you stank hoe

Wow, your ummm, "spelling" and "vocabulary" is impressive. Not sure I can top that. I might have to go find someone who is well, shouldn't be let into a dental school, let alone applying to one. Gee, I wonder if you classmates know what kind of person they are going to be dealing with next 4 years.

I feel sorry for them.

 

[AUG2UAG]

Time for a few deep cleansing breaths, kids.

And, incidentally...

no getting around you is there? thanks for clearing that up.
just to brush up everyone with the situation... i politely brought to this person's attention that her title had a misspelled word. not that it's a big deal to spell words incorrectly, just that it was under the title, hence, it was looming everywhere this person went. anyways, i got back a very rude comment saying that i need to get a life b/c the only thing i did was look through old posts and find errors and that i'm a loser etc etc... anyways, i replied that there's no use in being overly sensitive and that her response was rude, at which point i placed this person on ignore. a couple weeks later, i decided to take her off the ignore list only to find in her title that she was silently attacking me for that lame incident, at which point i dedicated the title in use to her. as you can see or saw, this person also took a similar title with the word "anal"... and the attacks began. but in the end, it was her lack of positive criticism that sparked this irremarkable argument. i view it as a waste of space and will put this person on ignore
i regret what i typed, it was very immature and wish to delete if possible please pm via a 3rd person- i apologize to you (person)- you won the battle, but there is no war

 

[AUG2UAG]

Wow, your ummm, "spelling" and "vocabulary" is impressive. Not sure I can top that. I might have to go find someone who is well, shouldn't be let into a dental school, let alone applying to one. Gee, I wonder if you classmates know what kind of person they are going to be dealing with next 4 years.

I feel sorry for them.

sorry, i apologize, it was very immature... now i am going to go on ignore mode, bye.

 

[aphistis]

sorry, i apologize, it was very immature... now i am going to go on ignore mode, bye.

Better late than never. 👍

 

[Darksunshine]

sorry, i apologize, it was very immature... now i am going to go on ignore mode, bye.

Thanks, now you need to apologize to the rest of the single women who had their children outside of marriage because that was instreamly insulting. I am married and was married for both of my kids but that doesn't make ANYONE BAD if LIFE happens not in that order. 😡

 

[tx oms]

all to have a new ip you stank hoe

1) IBTL

2) AUG2UAG, thank goodness there's someone else on here with a sense of humor. My friends and I would like to thank you for entertaining us on a boring night of pediatrics call. I love on-line fights, especially when the other person takes it all personal.

3) In light of the nature of the quoted (and very funny) post and other similar posts, why did our IP get temporarily banned when all we did was make fun of periodontists and DO's?

It's sad aphistis how many smart people just repeat what they hear and don't pay attention to the facts.

Most dentist strongly rely on their hygienists intelligence and expertise in the perio arena. The dental office is about TEAM WORK, not the dentist LORDING HIS ALL KNOWING AUTHORITY OVER OTHERS.

And since you don't have any experience yet with that field you are far from able to comment on it. Also calling a smart female a hoe because they point out that this forum is about sharing information not being each other's ENGLISH professor's is a real lack of character and shows a LOT of ego on your part.

Speaking of facts:
1. Dentists know more than hygienists about perio
2. The dental office is about the dentist lording his all knowing authority over others while making them feal like they're part of his team
3. Hygiene experience does not equal dental experience
4. Attacking spelling and grammar is, in reality, pretty silly, but so much fun.

 

[Darksunshine]

1) IBTL

2) AUG2UAG, thank goodness there's someone else on here with a sense of humor. My friends and I would like to thank you for entertaining us on a boring night of pediatrics call. I love on-line fights, especially when the other person takes it all personal.

3) In light of the nature of the quoted (and very funny) post and other similar posts, why did our IP get temporarily banned when all we did was make fun of periodontists and DO's?





Speaking of facts:
1. Dentists know more than hygienists about perio
2. The dental office is about the dentist lording his all knowing authority over others while making them feal like they're part of his team
3. Hygiene experience does not equal dental experience
4. Attacking spelling and grammar is, in reality, pretty silly, but so much fun.

1. Periodontist's KNOW more about Perio than Dentist's.

2. Dentist’s IN REAL LIFE ASK for their hygienist's TX plan on periodisease as we have 2 YEARS of scaling and rootplannig WHILE they get a 4-9 quad requirement. Hygienist's have over 2000 hours of PERIO while dentist focus on a myriad of other issues. Not to mention a hygienist that has been out of school and working in the field definitely knows a LOT more than the new graduate dentist on Periodontal disease. I.E. EXPERIENCE MATTERS.

3. The dental OFFICE will not work if there isn't TEAMWORK. The dentist is the respondent superior, but that by no means implies that he could do it all by himself.

4. Attacking grammar might be funny, but attacking some one's SEX (FEMALE), CHILDREN (by calling them bastards), and other insult's isn't funny. Just because ignoramuses people like you like to hide behind the MASK of anonymity doesn't mean it is OK to be cruel to others.

 

[tx oms]

1. Periodontist's KNOW more about Perio than Dentist's.

What? You make my head hurt, but I'm willing to get banned in order to check your stupidity. You're a hygienist, I'm a dentist. I know more than you about perio. Period. You're not a periodontist, therefore you don't know what they know nor do you know more than me.

2. Dentist’s IN REAL LIFE ASK for their hygienist's TX plan on periodisease as we have 2 YEARS of scaling and rootplannig WHILE they get a 4-9 quad requirement. Hygienist's have over 2000 hours of PERIO while dentist focus on a myriad of other issues. Not to mention a hygienist that has been out of school and working in the field definitely knows a LOT more than the new graduate dentist on Periodontal disease. I.E. EXPERIENCE MATTERS.

Again your education is not paramount to being a dentist or periodontist. You may be an expert in the pen grasp but your arguement only proves that you've mastered the art of scratching teeth, not the theory. Your statement about experience over didactic knowledge is absurd. Experience may matter when it comes to cleaning teeth and floors quickly, but it doesn't replace pathophysiology. Wait until you're actually in dental school to make such claims. When you go to dental school your eyes will be opened to your ignorance.

3. The dental OFFICE will not work if there isn't TEAMWORK. The dentist is the respondent superior, but that by no means implies that he could do it all by himself.

I know dentists who run solo practices with only their wives to help them answer phones. I don't know any hygienists who can practice without a dentist's supervision. Sorry.

 

[aphistis]

Once again, I'm in with txoms.

1. Periodontist's KNOW more about Perio than Dentist's.

Sure. That hasn't ever been in dispute here. It also has absolutely nothing to do with the debate at hand, unless you're claiming equality with periodontists. Are you?

2. Dentist’s IN REAL LIFE ASK for their hygienist's TX plan on periodisease as we have 2 YEARS of scaling and rootplannig WHILE they get a 4-9 quad requirement. Hygienist's have over 2000 hours of PERIO while dentist focus on a myriad of other issues. Not to mention a hygienist that has been out of school and working in the field definitely knows a LOT more than the new graduate dentist on Periodontal disease. I.E. EXPERIENCE MATTERS.

Sure, they get the hygienist's input--before making the decision themselves.

3. The dental OFFICE will not work if there isn't TEAMWORK. The dentist is the respondent superior, but that by no means implies that he could do it all by himself.

Like txoms said, there are plenty of dentists out there who are solo practitioners with naught but a receptionist to answer the phone. They're plenty capable of doing it all themselves.

4. Attacking grammar might be funny, but attacking some one's SEX (FEMALE), CHILDREN (by calling them bastards), and other insult's isn't funny. Just because ignoramuses people like you like to hide behind the MASK of anonymity doesn't mean it is OK to be cruel to others.

1. You do realize you've rolled posts from something like three separate people into this single response, right?

2. You ought to look into a new keyboard. Your caps lock key seems to be activating itself on random individual words.

3. You're taking this entire thread WAY too seriously. It's a student forum--hell, it's a forum for people who aren't even students yet. Go take a bubble bath or something.

 

[Darksunshine]

What? You make my head hurt, but I'm willing to get banned in order to check your stupidity. You're a hygienist, I'm a dentist. I know more than you about perio. Period. You're not a periodontist, therefore you don't know what they know nor do you know more than me.



Again your education is not paramount to being a dentist or periodontist. You may be an expert in the pen grasp but your arguement only proves that you've mastered the art of scratching teeth, not the theory. Your statement about experience over didactic knowledge is absurd. Experience may matter when it comes to cleaning teeth and floors quickly, but it doesn't replace pathophysiology. Wait until you're actually in dental school to make such claims. When you go to dental school your eyes will be opened to your ignorance.



I know dentists who run solo practices with only their wives to help them answer phones. I don't know any hygienists who can practice without a dentist's supervision. Sorry.

Your post angers people b/c it essentially minimizes their hard work and degrees.

Your previous post anger's people because you minimize a RDH-BS degree. WE do KNOW about pathology and physiology. Hygienist are NOT glorified teeth scraper and ONLY arrogant dentist like you believe that. I have met many dentist's who would gladly stand up and support their HYGIENIST'S contribution to their practice.

Get on dental towne buddy, you will see that there are many dentist's who have their head in the sand like you and then their are the ones who KNOW how vaulable their VERY EDUCATED, COMPENTENT hygienist is and that she/he is more than just DIDACTLY confident.

Also, several states currently have laws that ALLOW independant practice of one form or another for dental hygienists. And a DENTIST who runs solo practices WITHOUT hygienist's and has the wife manning the phone's are not making that much money when compared to a doctor that has even one hygienist. I have yet to see a million plus a year practice run by only ONE guy and HIS wife. They almost certainly have hygienist working for them. What you said earlier is a man just starting out, not a seasoned professional.

Just to clarify because you ARE GETTING off POINT. I didn't SAY hygienist's know EVERYTHING about EVERYTHING. But I have seen new grad's and worked with them. I have also worked with the guys who have been out 20 plus years. They EXPECT and DEMAND that their hygienist's KNOW WHAT THEY ARE DOING BEYOND THE TEETH SCRAPPING. And yes I am talking hygiene diagnosis and treatment planning of periodontally involved patients.

You can blow smoke all you wish BUT THIS ENTIRE DISCUSSION was STARTED over AUG2UAG who KNOWS NOTHING about denistry. HE isn't a hygienist or an assistant from what I can tell he only meets the qualifications to get into dental. But the probably didn't know he resorts to name calling and bashing over trivaly things.

He got insulting and called me a "HOE" and my kids "BASTARDS" and you tell me that is PROFESSIONAL and behaviour future ALUMNI want in their DENTIST's?

IT IS NOT FUNNY TO SLAM AND BASH PEOPLE. PERIOD.

Which he did. He knew I was a hygienist from my previous post's and he said something totally unrelated to the Thread that didn't even make sense based on what I said and kept going from there.

Yep, you boys who have no sense of decency should stick together and get banned together.

Good luck with that.

 

[Darksunshine]

Once again, I'm in with txoms.

Sure. That hasn't ever been in dispute here. It also has absolutely nothing to do with the debate at hand, unless you're claiming equality with periodontists. Are you?.

Didn't say I was, but I have worked for them and they do more than dentist's about periodontal issue.

Sure, they get the hygienist's input--before making the decision themselves.
Like txoms said, there are plenty of dentists out there who are solo practitioners with naught but a receptionist to answer the phone. They're plenty capable of doing it all themselves.

Ummm. Wrong. The hygienist does all the fact finding and goes to the Dr. and say this is what I think I am going to do. And the Dr. says.......... are you ready for this............
Sure, sounds great get the appointment set up. Doesn't sound like they are PLANNING there, sounds like they agreed to the HYGIENIST's plan on the perio to me. Oh Wait, but you wouldn't know that yet because you haven't been there. This is what 98% of the hygienist's will tell you happens everyday in a dental office.

You're taking this entire thread WAY too seriously. It's a student forum--hell, it's a forum for people who aren't even students yet. Go take a bubble bath or something.

Ok, yah I shouldn't take naming calling like HOE and bashing my children personally.... How would you feel? Or maybe that is a dumb question because you wouldn't care if someone bashed your wife and kids. OH, WAIT, maybe you don't have any and that is why you are so COLD to the whole thing.

Which bring me to your last point. This is a student forum so why the hell are TXOMS and AUG2UAG bashing me on a personal level? I believe that both have violated the user agreement but clearly exceptions can be made for men of ignorance.

 

[tx oms]

Get on dental towne buddy, you will see that there are many dentist's who have their head in the sand like you and then their are the ones who KNOW how vaulable their VERY EDUCATED, COMPENTENT hygienist is and that she/he is more than just DIDACTLY confident.

I asserted that hygienists lack didactic training in comparison to dentists, not that they are "just didactly confident".

Also, several states currently have laws that ALLOW independant practice of one form or another for dental hygienists.

No state allows you to practice without any dentist oversight.

And a DENTIST who runs solo practices WITHOUT hygienist's and has the wife manning the phone's are not making that much money when compared to a doctor that has even one hygienist. I have yet to see a million plus a year practice run by only ONE guy and HIS wife. They almost certainly have hygienist working for them. What you said earlier is a man just starting out, not a seasoned professional.

Does this negate the fact that the dentist is practicing solo, without anyone's supervision?

Just to clarify because you ARE GETTING off POINT. I didn't SAY hygienist's know EVERYTHING about EVERYTHING. But I have seen new grad's and worked with them. I have also worked with the guys who have been out 20 plus years. They EXPECT and DEMAND that their hygienist's KNOW WHAT THEY ARE DOING BEYOND THE TEETH SCRAPPING. And yes I am talking hygiene diagnosis and treatment planning of periodontally involved patients.

You merely implied that you "know everything" and I suggested that your implication may be a fallacy.

You can blow smoke all you wish BUT THIS ENTIRE DISCUSSION was STARTED over AUG2UAG who KNOWS NOTHING about denistry. HE isn't a hygienist or an assistant from what I can tell he only meets the qualifications to get into dental. But the probably didn't know he resorts to name calling and bashing over trivaly things.

He got insulting and called me a "HOE" and my kids "BASTARDS" and you tell me that is PROFESSIONAL and behaviour future ALUMNI want in their DENTIST's?

I already posted my concerns that perhaps AUG2UAG was getting close to the line despite the comic genius he displays.

IT IS NOT FUNNY TO SLAM AND BASH PEOPLE. PERIOD.

Yes it is. I am trying so hard to excercise self control.

 

[Darksunshine]

I asserted that hygienists lack didactic training in comparison to dentists, not that they are "just didactly confident".



No state allows you to practice without any dentist oversight.



Does this negate the fact that the dentist is practicing solo, without anyone's supervision?



You merely implied that you "know everything" and I suggested that your implication may be a fallacy.



I already posted my concerns that perhaps AUG2UAG was getting close to the line despite the comic genius he displays.



Yes it is. I am trying so hard to excercise self control.

Hey, glad to have provided you with such an excercise in humor and restraint. I consider this topic closed.

 

[ItsGavinC]

The only good thing about this thread is that it's now closed.