Finding a kid-friendly dentist is essential for establishing healthy oral care habits in children early on. Regular dental cleanings significantly help prevent cavities, promote good dental hygiene, and ensure proper development as children grow. The dentist provides the necessary cleanings and exams in a welcoming and positive environment that makes children feel comfortable and engaged in their oral health care. Here are five reasons to ensure regular dental cleanings with a kid-friendly dentist are a part of your child's care.
Tooth decay, or cavities, are among children's most prevalent dental issues. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, half of children aged six to nine years old have had cavities in their primary (baby) or secondary (adult) teeth. The CDC also reports one in 10 adolescents aged 12 to 19 years currently have at least one untreated cavity. Therefore, despite parents' best efforts to help their children maintain good oral hygiene at home, children are simply more susceptible to plaque buildup and decay due to their developing dental habits.
Professional dental cleanings effectively remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) that the child cannot eliminate with brushing and flossing alone. By regularly eliminating plaque and tartar buildup, children significantly increase their chance of developing periodontal (gum) disease— a serious infection that ravishes the gingiva, or gum tissue. Once this disease takes hold, children can experience sensitivity, pain, gum recession, dental development issues, chronic bad breath, and tooth and bone loss.
Regular cleanings with a kid-friendly dentist allow early detection of potential dental issues. During routine checkups, the dentist examines the teeth, gums, and overall oral structure, identifying any problems before they progress to irreversible damage. Early detection of issues like weakened enamel, narrow palate, misaligned teeth, gum disease, sores or lesions, and cavities allows timely intervention. As a result, it often prevents the need for more extensive and costly treatment.
For example, a child with a weakened enamel is more susceptible to decay and damage. Therefore, the kid-friendly dentist will work with them to strengthen their enamel, or the outer layer of the teeth, through fluoride treatments, dental sealants, updated oral hygiene products, and educating them on maintaining a mouth-healthy diet to strengthen the enamel.
During a regular dental cleaning, which should occur biannually, the kid-friendly dentist will demonstrate correct brushing and flossing techniques. While it may seem obvious, the technique children use will change as they develop. Further, a child with misalignments or a narrowed palate may require a different oral hygiene routine than one without these conditions. During these appointments, children learn essential skills that they may overlook or struggle with at home, such as rewatching every tooth, brushing for two minutes, and understanding the impact of their diet. A kid-friendly dentist is skilled at introducing fun ways to motivate children to care for their teeth. This can involve anything from using times and songs to brushing charts and games.
According to CareQuest, the Institute of Oral Health, poor oral hygiene can raise the risk of several diseases elsewhere in the body. It can also be an indicator of a problem occurring within the body. This is because the mouth is a gateway that travels to multiple bodily systems. Additionally, poor dental or oral health issues can create a ripple effect on a child's speech, breathing habits, and self-esteem.
A kid-friendly dentist recognizes the importance of oral health in a child's life beyond the dental chair. By providing thorough cleanings, preventive care, and education, pediatric dentists contribute to children's overall health and development. Regular cleanings help prevent dental issues that may affect a child's comfort, confidence, and general well-being.
It is common for children to experience a form of dental anxiety, even if only mild. This feeling can occur for numerous reasons, whether fear of the unknown or the idea of a visit being painful. Considering that the American Dental Association, or ADA, strongly recommends that all patients maintain a minimum of biannual appointments, some children may find it helpful to see the same smiles and faces ready to help each time. Regular visits to a dentist who understands children's needs help children become more comfortable with dental care, reducing anxiety and fear associated with dental visits. A kid-friendly dentist helps children associate dental care with positive experiences rather than stress by creating a supportive and playful environment.
Regular dental cleanings from a kid-friendly dentist are an invaluable part of a child's health and development. From cavity prevention and early issue detection to positive experiences and reinforcement of good hygiene habits, pediatric dental visits lay the foundation for lifelong oral health. To schedule your child's next cleaning, contact Hardy Oak Family Dentistry today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.hardyoakfamilydentistry.com or call Hardy Oak Family Dentistry at (210) 787-1535 for an appointment in our San Antonio office.
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