Importance of Preventive Dental Care In Children

Taking care of your child’s teeth from an early age is essential. Children’s teeth are susceptible to cavities, and that can affect their overall health. Preventive dental care refers to the routine dental visits you have with your dentist. It includes a variety of procedures and treatments that help you avoid dental issues.

What is Preventive Dental Care?

Preventive dental care for children is important, but many parents do not know what is involved in this care. Preventative care can include daily brushing and flossing, regular cleanings and examinations at the dental office, and the use of fluoride treatments. All of these measures will help stop the progression of oral diseases or the need for complex treatments later on.

By helping your children form good oral hygiene habits at a young age, you can ensure that they will develop healthy teeth and gums throughout their lives. 

Why Is Preventive Dental Care Important for Children?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child see a dentist by his or her first birthday or within six months of the first tooth coming in. The dentist will check for signs of tooth decay and other conditions that can cause harm to a child’s teeth, such as infection and misalignment. In addition, the dentist will clean the child’s teeth and review proper oral hygiene techniques with the parent.

By starting early with preventive care, children will be more likely to continue to follow good oral care habits throughout their life. Once children reach adolescence, their teeth will grow, and they will become more independent in their daily dental care routine. During this time, it’s important for parents to enforce good brushing habits and help their children identify foods that are good for healthy teeth and gums.

Orthodontics is also offered for children once all of their permanent teeth have come in. Braces can help straighten crooked teeth as well as correct overbites or under-bite. Orthodontic treatment may also prevent oral issues that may interfere with speech development. 

When Should a Child First Visit a Dentist?

A child should visit a dentist for the first time no later than the child’s first birthday, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). This initial visit will consist of a quick examination of the teeth and jaw, as well as a discussion about diet and nutrition habits. The dentist will answer any questions and concerns that the parents may have about their child’s oral health at this time.

After this first appointment, children should be seen every six months for regular examinations and cleanings. These visits are important for monitoring the development of your child’s teeth, gums, and jaws, as well as preventing decay or disease. Routine exams allow the dentist to catch any developing problems early so that they can be addressed before they cause pain or become complex, painful conditions that may require costly and extensive treatment later on. Regular cleanings also keep your child’s mouth free of plaque and tartar, which are responsible for tooth decay and gum disease. As an added benefit, regular visits to the dentist can help get your child used to visiting the dentist, which will help him or her feel comfortable and confident during future appointments.

In addition to routine care, your dentist may recommend additional preventive treatments for your child based on the individual condition of his or her smile. Fluoride supplements may be recommended for children whose diets do not already include enough fluoride. Sealants can also be applied to the back molars to prevent tooth decay in those hard-to-reach areas. If your child is particularly prone to cavities, your dentist may also recommend that he or she avoid certain foods and drinks, such as sugary drinks and candies, that can significantly increase the risk of tooth decay.

Aurora Children's Dentistry, located in Anchorage, AK, offers the best dental care services to patients with the help of modern technologies and expert dentists. Dial (907) 336-1234 and schedule an appointment with our dentist to learn more about dental care services and receive a complete dental checkup.