Are you seeing a family dentist? If not, here are five things every parent should know.Taking your child or children to a dental check-up is unlikely to land you, as their parent, in their good books. Sorry! But children’s dental care is an essential aspect of overall health and wellbeing. A healthy set of teeth helps with proper chewing and speaking, but it also lays the basis for a lifetime of good oral hygiene. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings, along with proper home care, are crucial in preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues. So, here is all you need to know about what you should do or what to expect when you visit a Coorparoo family dental team.
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5 Things Every Parent Should Know About Seeing a Family Dentist
The American Academy of Pediatrics (sic) and the National Health Service recommend that children start seeing a dentist by the time their first tooth comes in or no later than their first birthday. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings should continue every six months to ensure that any problems are caught early on.
So, this is an easy-to-identify milestone that should prompt you to contact a family dental team for that all-important first appointment. If anything, this will help get your child used to check-ups, which will prevent issues later in life relating to fears or phobias of seeing the dentist.
Check-Ups For Children
During a dental check-up, your dentist will examine your child’s teeth and gums for evidence of decay, disease, or other problems. They may also take X-rays to get a better look at the child’s teeth and jaws and to detect any issues that may not be visible during a visual examination. They may also apply fluoride to the child’s teeth to help strengthen them and prevent cavities.
Fluoride Sealants
Fluoride and dental sealants are also crucial for children. Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen teeth and makes them more resistant to decay. Dental sealants are protective coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent decay. They are particularly productive for children because they are more likely to have deep grooves in their molars, which are harder to clean and can be more susceptible to decay.
Restorative Treatments
If your child does develop a cavity, it is vital to have it filled as soon as possible. Their dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the cavity with filling material, such as composite resin or amalgam. This will help prevent the cavity from getting worse and protect the child’s tooth from further damage.In some cases, children may need a pulpotomy, also known as a ‘baby root canal’. This is a procedure that is performed on a primary (baby) tooth that has become infected or inflamed.
Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment, such as braces, may also be necessary for some children. Braces can help correct problems with their bite, alignment, and spacing of the teeth. They can also improve the overall appearance of a child’s smile and boost their confidence. Orthodontic treatment is usually recommended for children between the ages of 8 and 14 when their permanent teeth have come in, but their jawbones are still growing.
DISCLAIMER OFFSITE
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Final Thoughts
We hope this article about what every parent should know about seeing a family dentist has been helpful. Why wait? Make an appointment today to ensure your family’s dental needs are taken care of.