Instilling the importance and necessity of healthy oral habits in children is vital to maintaining your child’s ideal smile. In addition to proper home hygiene, early visits to the dentist are important to establish a good relationship with dental professionals. A family dentist takes extra measures to make sure young patients feel comfortable. With good preventive care, children can learn to maintain a smile that lasts forever.
The First Steps of Dental Care
Caring for baby teeth is very important as they need to last for several years, and they affect the placement of permanent teeth. Begin your baby’s oral hygiene routine by gently cleaning their gums with a soft cloth daily. When the first tooth emerges, use a rice grain sized amount of fluoride toothpaste on a child’s toothbrush and brush softly.
Familiarizing a child with the dental office before their first visit can go a long way in alleviating fears. Some parents bring their child along at their appointments, or schedule a meet and greet visit before their first dental exam. Reading picture books about the dentist with children is another way to prepare them for an appointment.
Usually, by age three, children who have been gently introduced to the dentist can tolerate x-rays and a quick look at their teeth. The dentist will check for signs of decay, bite issues, and teeth grinding to design a customized treatment plan and prevent existing issues from becoming serious problems.
Dental Treatment for Young Children
Fluoride treatments may be provided to strengthen enamel and sealants can be applied to the nooks and crannies of teeth to prevent cavities. If tooth decay is present, teeth can be repaired with silver or tooth-colored fillings. If orthodontic issues are detected, early intervention may be implemented to reduce the duration or invasiveness of future procedures.
Dental Visits to Meet the Needs of Older Children
Older children have images obtained, cleanings, thorough exams, and any necessary treatment on a regular basis. They also receive education on the effects that poor diet and unhealthy lifestyle choices can have on teeth.
Mouth guards may be recommended for children participating in contact sports or other physical activities.
Call Dr. Jonathan Harris for Comprehensive Children’s Dental Care in Ellicott City
Caring for teeth and visiting the dentist from an early age sets the stage for a healthy smile. Give Harris Dental Group a call to keep your family's dental health in optimal condition.