An easy way to talk with your children about their oral health and dental care is to work your way through some details they don’t know much about yet: Simple anatomy of their smiles. The good news is that as much as talking about names for parts of the smile is fun and opens up conversation about smile health, it’s also a fun way for everyone in your family increase your dental education! You can never know too much about your grin, of course. Your Riverside children’s dentist suggests getting started with some basic anatomy!

What Is A Cusp?

A cusp is the outward projection on your tooth. Not all of your teeth have them. Your canines have one. Your premolars usually have two. Your molars have around four. It may vary a bit from person to person. However, these structures are always called cusps!

What Is Enamel?

Your Riverside children’s dentist explains that enamel is the outer layer of your tooth. It’s so hard that it’s even more durable than your bone tissue: Imagine that! By keeping it clean, it’s like keeping your smile’s armor safe, so it can continue to offer protection.

What Is Gingiva?

Gingiva is another term to refer to your gums, or the soft tissue that frames your teeth. Your Riverside children’s dentist reminds you that this may be called “gingival tissue” and will help you remember what gingivitis means (inflammation of your gum tissue).

What Are Taste Buds?

These are the little protrusions on your tongue. They are full of nerves and they help you and your kiddos taste foods and drinks, explains your Riverside children’s dentist. Take a closer look in the mirror and you’ll see: You have thousands of them!

Learn More From Your Children’s Dentist

Schedule appointments for your children twice annually, so they may enjoy optimal oral health. Give us a call in Riverside, CA to schedule a consultation with your dentist. We are proud to serve patients from Riverside, Temecula, Moreno Valley, Corona, and all surrounding California communities. To schedule an appointment, contact one of the following locations nearest to you:

Riverside Dental Group at Magnolia in Riverside, CA at (951) 689-5031.

Dental Associates of Moreno Valley in Moreno Valley, CA at (951) 697-6800.

Riverside Dental Group at Woodcrest in Riverside, CA at (951) 776-9001.

Oasis Family Dental in Temecula, CA at (951) 695-2290.

Dental Associates of Riverside in Riverside, CA at (951) 369-1001.

Dental Associates of Corona in Corona, CA at (951) 273-9580.