It’s Time to Get Back to Preventive Dentistry

Preventive dentistry (cleanings, sealants, fluoride and check-ups) are an essential part of your oral wellness. Because, cavities (tooth decay) are still the most common chronic health problems of childhood in the US. As a matter of fact, tooth decay is five times more common than asthma and seven times more common than hay fever,” said the University of Illinois College of Dentistry.  So what does preventive dentistry for children look like?

What is Preventive Dentistry for Children?

After a child gets his first tooth, preventive dental care needs to be established.  Preventive dentistry for kids monitors problems early on in your child’s life before dental problems have a chance to worsen. Common preventive dentistry actions for children include:

• Teach proper dental habits. Such as: regular brushing and flossing; avoiding thumb sucking; and healthy-teeth eating habits.
• Engage in teeth cleanings and oral exams every 6 months.
• Schedule a fluoride application .
• Receive dental sealants.
• Have x-rays to identify and track jaw/teeth development.
• Get an athletic mouthguard for sports. 

Preventive dentistry for children is successful when both the dentist and the parents are working with the child to establish healthy dental habits and education.  Furthermore, taking the time to incorporate the above components of preventive dentistry help to establish a healthy foundation for keeping smiles bright and confidence high. 

Prevent Tooth decay in Your Child with These Tips

Parents don’t intentionally try to cause oral health issues with children. More often that not, parents are unaware of how certain actions can impact oral health. For example, don’t put your baby to sleep with a bottle unless the bottle just contains water. Early childhood cavities are often a result of juice or milk being given to a baby at night. The sugars in these liquids sit on the mouth, eroding teeth enamel and leading to tooth decay. 

Remember to start oral health habits after your child’s first tooth appears. This is also when you should schedule your child’s first dental visit. By introducing your child to oral health habits early, you establish a foundation of good habits that can stay with him throughout his life. 

Don’t give your child total responsibility over tooth brushing too soon. One of the biggest errors parents make is not monitoring/helping their child with tooth brushing when they really do need that. An adult should assist a child with this habit until six years of age. 

A Balanced Diet is Key for Dental Health

Certainly, brushing and flossing are vital parts of preventive dentistry. But, don’t forget to teach your child about how food affects his smile. Good nutrition boosts the immune system.  As a result, a healthy immune system protects your child from developing oral disease.

Furthermore, carbohydrates, sugars and starchy foods (think cake, candy, sticky fruit snacks,bread or pretzels) triggers the production of oral acids. Consequently, these acids then attack the teeth. 

Also, snacking between meals without brushing after fuels bacteria creating plaque and cavities.

Schedule a Dental Cleaning Today

Knowing what to expect before your child’s dental cleaning can help you prepare your child and reduce any fears or anxieties. Dr. Cat uses the dental cleaning and exam appointments to spot warning signs in your child’s mouth of gum disease or other issues.

Dental cleanings not only keep your child’s smile white.  But, they work to prevent oral cancer, gum disease, and tooth loss. Moreover, they support optimum physical health, including reducing heart attacks and strokes.  The Academy of General Dentistry recommends that patients receive a professional dental cleaning at least twice a year to safeguard oral health.

Li’l Sunshine Smiles Dentistry is committed to preventive dentistry for children. To learn more or to schedule a dental exam and teeth cleaning, contact us today at 813-756-0200.