Pediatric Dentistry – Facts to Consider
It is always tricky to know what to do when your child’s teeth start coming in. Most parents don’t know when to bring their child in for their first appointment at iGrin Pediatric Dentistry. Just like learning to read, it is great to start your child’s healthy teeth journey early. When they learn how to take care of their teeth at an early age, they will carry those habits into their adult lives.
These pediatric dentistry facts will help you understand more about your child’s dental habits.
Tooth decay is the most common disease in children in the U.S.
Bacteria in the mouth eventually lead to plaque and then to tooth decay if not taken care of properly. To get rid of tooth decay, your dentist will take out all the decay and replace it with a filling. Proper oral hygiene care, including brushing and flossing, will help get rid of the plaque-causing bacteria.
Cavities are preventable
That leads to our second fact. Cavities, or tooth decay, is preventable! Fluoride is great at preventing cavities. If your child has fluoride in their toothpaste, it can help at restoring their enamel. Sealants are also available for your child’s first teeth. Sealants go on your child’s back teeth to help fill in gaps to prevent decay.
Children should have a pediatric dentistry visit by the time they are one year old
Your child needs to visit their pediatric dentist early to ensure that they are growing correctly and to enforce the habit of proper oral hygiene. Baby teeth are just as important as adult teeth because they help in your child’s speech development and create room for adult teeth.
Candy is not the only cause of cavities
Although candy has a significant impact on your child’s teeth and decay, it is not the only cause for cavities. There are different types of foods that cause decay including candy, starches, and bread. The bacteria in carbohydrates affect your child’s teeth. If you brush your child’s teeth after eating these foods, it can help to prevent cavities from forming.
Sports can cause dental injuries
Children who participate in sports have a higher percentage of dental injuries. Your child should wear proper protection during their activities, including mouth guards and helmets.
Not sure when to start? Why not now?
If you haven’t scheduled your child’s first dental appointment, then what better time than now? It’s good to start your child early to ensure that they receive the proper care before too late. Call one of our pediatric dentist offices today to schedule your child’s first appointment!
