A dentist for kids spends a fair share of their time examining children's developing teeth and performing corrective treatments when needed. They also educate parents on how to take care of their child's teeth and establish good dental habits early on.
The American Association of Pediatric Dentistry recommends taking a child to a dentist for kids by their first birthday. It familiarizes the child with the dentist's clinic and educates parents on how to set up their child for a lifetime of excellent dental health.
Good oral hygiene makes up the foundation of good oral health, and it should start as early as possible. The earlier that these habits are established, the more likely the child will stick with them for the rest of their life. Good dental hygiene protects against the two most common dental issues: tooth decay and gum disease. It also improves the way the child's breath smells and reduces the risk of infections. Here are a few tips on taking proper care of a child's teeth from a kid's dentist.
Compared to adult teeth, baby teeth are more vulnerable to decay due to having thinner enamel. Oral hygiene should start from birth. A clean, soft cloth should be used to clean the child's gums after every meal. Once the child's first set of teeth start to erupt, parents can switch to using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a low-fluoride toothpaste to clean their teeth. The brush should be held at a 45-degree angle to the gum line when brushing the teeth. Use a gentle circular motion to clean the teeth and gums.
Flossing helps clean the spaces between teeth. There are enough spaces between a child's teeth to clean the sides with a toothbrush when they first erupt. However, these spaces will gradually close as more teeth erupt. Most children should have all their baby teeth by age three. At this point, dental floss is needed to clean the tight spaces between teeth. Flossing also helps stimulate gum tissues, keeping them healthy.
Toothbrushes accumulate bacteria over time, so parents should avoid using the same toothbrush for more than three months. The bristles of a toothbrush also wear away after a while, making them less effective at keeping teeth and gums clean.
Parents should take their children to the dentist at least twice each year. This familiarizes the child with the clinic, making them less likely to develop dental phobias as an adult. These visits also serve as a chance for the dentist to examine the child's developing teeth, searching for signs of abnormalities.
Generally speaking, most dental issues are easier to treat when detected early. For example, teeth-straightening treatments are more effective on children due to their soft facial structures and jaw.
Teaching your child good oral hygiene habits early often leads to a lifetime of good dental health. Call or stop by our Gainesville clinic to set up an appointment with our dentist.
Request an appointment here: https://www.easydentalva.com or call Easy Dental Care at (703) 651-1566 for an appointment in our Gainesville office.
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