Answers to Questions About Your Child's Oral Health
As a parent, you want what is best for your child. This includes their oral health. You may wonder when to take your child for their first dental visit or how to get them excited about teeth brushing. Here is a guide to pediatric dentistry to help answer some of those questions.
When Should My Child See a Dentist for the First Time?
It is recommended that children see a dentist within six months of getting their first tooth or by their first birthday. Doing so will allow the dentist to assess your child's oral health and development and help you establish a good oral hygiene routine.
How Can I Get My Child Excited About Teeth Brushing?
Getting your child excited about dental care doesn’t have to be difficult. Here are a few ideas to try out with your little ones:
- You can make it into a game to get your child excited about teeth brushing. Whoever brushes their teeth for a full two minutes without stopping, wins!
- Let them choose their toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Sing songs or tell stories while they brush.
- And most importantly, praise them for a job well done!
What Are Some Common Pediatric Dentistry Procedures?
Some standard pediatric dentistry procedures include sealants, fluoride treatments, and space maintainers. Sealants protect the teeth from cavities, while fluoride treatments help strengthen the teeth and prevent cavities. Space maintainers are used when a baby tooth is lost prematurely to keep the space open for the adult tooth to come in.
How Can I Prepare My Child for Their Dental Visit?
You can prepare your child for their dental visit by reading books about going to the dentist, watching videos about dental procedures, and talking to them about what will happen during their appointment. It is also essential to let them know that the dentist is there to help them and that they should not be afraid.
What Are Some Common Pediatric Dental Problems?
Some common pediatric dental problems include cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay. Cavities are caused by the buildup of plaque on the teeth. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss. Tooth decay is the breakdown of the enamel on the teeth.
When Should My Pre-Teen or Teen See a Dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that pre-teens and teens see a dentist every six months—and we agree! This will help them maintain good oral health and prevent cavities and other dental problems throughout life.
Should My Child Floss?
Yes, children should floss every day. Flossing helps remove plaque and bacteria between the teeth and the gum line. Brushing twice a day and using fluoride toothpaste are also important. If your little one is under three, you should help them floss. If they are over three, they should be able to floss independently.
When Should We Start Considering Braces?
The answer to this question depends on the individual child. Some children may need braces as early as age seven, while others may not need them until they are teenagers. The best way to know if your child needs braces is to consult with an orthodontist.
What Are Some Tips for Taking Care of My Child's Teeth?
Some tips for taking care of your child's teeth include:
- Brushing their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing their teeth every day
- Eating a healthy diet
- Visiting the dentist regularly
- Avoiding sugary drinks and snacks
Austin Pediatric Dental Care
Pediatric dentistry is vital for the oral health of your child. By taking your child to the dentist early and establishing a good oral hygiene routine, you can help prevent dental problems in the future.
At Mi Casa Family Dentistry, we offer a wide range of pediatric dental services to meet your child's needs. We believe every child deserves a healthy smile and are dedicated to providing the best possible care for our patients.
Please contact us if you have any questions about pediatric dentistry or would like to schedule an appointment.