Preventative Care
What is Preventative Care?
Preventative care includes all aspects of care that helps ensure your child's oral health care is taken care of. By establishing a Dental Home and providing proper guidance we can establish good habits and minimize any dental issues your child may have. Preventative care includes: proper brushing and flossing, a balanced diet, addressing harmful habits, fluoride treatments, addressing sports safety, and monitoring growth and development for orthodontics.
When should my child first see a dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children visit a pediatric dentist within 6 months of their first tooth erupting. While most kids will not require any treatment or dental x-rays at this appointment, it is important in helping establish a Dental Home. We will discuss proper diet, proper tooth brushing techniques, as well as address any harmful habits your child may have. An early dental examination and preventative care will establish a good routine early and prevent problems later on. If your child has no cavities, it is recommended they follow up with a check up at least twice a year or every 6 months.
Can tooth decay be prevented?
Over 40% of American children have cavities by age 6. With proper dental care this number can be greatly reduced. Preventive dentistry begins with the eruption of your first tooth. Cavities are caused by bacteria. For the bacteria to form a cavity three other components are needed: a tooth, sugars/carbohydrates, and time. By addressing any of these areas we can prevent bacteria from organizing into harmful colonies as well as develop healthy dietary habits. Brushing twice a day for at least two minutes will lower if not help eliminate the harmful bacterial colonies (referred to as plaque). Early and routine check up can allow us to address these issues and help avoid unnecessary cavities and dental treatment.
How does my child get the bacteria that causes dental decay?
Tooth decay is caused by harmful bacteria. This bacteria that causes cavities is passed directly to babies from their parents, siblings, or other care givers. It is important to try not sharing straws, spoons, drinks, or anything else that comes in contact with some else’s mouth with your young ones.
Why do I need to fix baby teeth?
While primary or baby teeth will eventually be replaced most are in your child’s mouth until they are teenagers. Establishing proper oral hygiene and preventing decay even in baby teeth is extremely important. Learning good habits as a child will translate to overall health permanent teeth and a healthier lifestyle. Studies show that children with poor oral health have decreased school performance, poor social relationships, and less success later in life. Untreated decay can lead to pain and infection. Children experiencing pain from decayed teeth or infections are distracted and unable to concentrate on schoolwork. In addition, baby teeth allow for proper growth and development by permitting your child to chew and eat properly. Baby teeth are also involved in proper speech. Finally, they help the permanent teeth by saving space for them. A healthy smile can help a child feel good about the way they look and themselves.
