More on the basics.
Regular checkups.
Young patients are always growing, and that includes their teeth. At every visit, your hygienist or pediatric dentist will do a thorough inspection of all your teeth and gums. Your dentist will check for any signs of cavities, gum disease, infections and any other health problems.
Good oral hygiene is connected to overall health.
Did you know that poor dental health can lead to more serious health issues, like heart disease and diabetes? Starting off life with a good oral health routine puts your child on a healthy path. When kids visit the dentist on a regular basis, they develop good oral hygiene habits, and if problems do develop, their dentist can treat them before they become serious. That can save additional visits to a pediatric dentist for costly and prolonged treatment.
Cleaning and polishing.
Try as you may, brushing can’t always get to the tartar and plaque that starts forming almost immediately after a meal. Most kids need a professional cleaning every six months – more frequently if your child builds up tartar quickly or if brushing is a challenge. That’s why regular cleanings are essential to keeping cavities and bigger issues at bay.
When your child comes in for a cleaning, the hygienist will clean along and just below the gum line with an ultra-sonic tool or dental scraper to gently remove built-up plaque and tartar, followed by a tooth polishing and flossing. Your child will leave with sparklingly clean teeth, ready to face the world!
Smile! You’re ready for your close-up.
Because your child is constantly growing, their teeth and facial structures are changing, too. So your child’s dentist will want to take X-rays of their mouth at each exam to see how things are developing.
In the dental world today, modern X-ray machines emit very low doses of radiation – not enough to cause any concern. They capture detailed pictures of the teeth, like infections, cavities between teeth, impacted wisdom teeth, and other issues not visible in a routine exam. They’re quick and easy, and they’ll give the pediatric dentist a total picture of your child’s mouth.
Kids like a good oral hygiene routine…
Learning good habits is part of growing up. By brushing at least twice a day, your child is breaking up tartar so it doesn’t form into plaque, a hard substance that accumulates on teeth and harbors harmful bacteria that can cause cavities. Use a fluoride toothpaste (kids love the berry flavors). They’ll help strengthen the tooth enamel and fight off plaque.