We want to help your whole family enjoy good oral health, and that includes your children too! We can offer care for babies, toddlers, kids, and even teens. In today’s blog, your Grand Prairie, TX, dentist talks about how we treat little smiles and protect them from issues like cavities.
Checkups and Cleanings for Kids
When should a child see the dentist for the first time? We recommend a visit for an initial wellness exam at around age one, after the first primary tooth has erupted. At age two, kids should begin to see the dentist every six months for a checkup, just like we recommend for adults. The visit is a chance to examine the smile and identify issues that need attention, so we treat problems like tooth decay before they threaten a tooth’s stability. After all, baby teeth do fall out, but this could happen months or even years after the decay forms, so waiting it out could mean serious pain and premature tooth loss.
Our team also has a chance to instill good oral hygiene habits, helping children understand the importance of seeing the dentist and caring for teeth from home. The exam also helps children become accustomed to the dentist, so they don’t develop dental anxiety and are more likely to continue care on their own as adults. During the cleaning portion of the visit, we will gently remove all plaque and tartar to lower the risk of cavities, bad breath, teeth stains, and gingivitis!
Preventing Decay in Little Smiles
Did you know that we also offer unique preventive treatments to help fight tooth decay and keep little smiles healthy and strong? When they see us for an exam, we will also apply a special fluoride varnish to the teeth, which helps strengthen outer enamel. This makes cavities less likely! We also know that many kids have trouble reaching the rear teeth when they brush and floss, which means decay could form there. But with dental sealants, our team can apply a special acrylic coating to the teeth, which covers them and prevents food and drink particles from being trapped there, lowering the risk of cavities. These can stay in place for up to ten years! With both options, application only takes a few seconds, and kids just need to avoid food and drink for about a half hour to ensure the varnish or sealants properly cure.
Boosting Oral Hygiene at Home
Better oral hygiene habits at home can also be beneficial! We recommend that kids start their day by brushing for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste and then do the same before going to bed. Kids also need to floss before going to bed. Reducing their consumption of sugar can also help fight tooth decay and gingivitis, so offer a healthier diet!
Do You Have Any Questions About Children’s Dentistry?
The team at Pecan Tree Dental in Grand Prairie, TX, wants to help your children smile with confidence and enjoy better oral health. To schedule an appointment with our team, call us today at 972-262-5111.
