Taking Your Child To The Dentist Will Build Healthy Habits

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While it can seem daunting to take a testy toddler to a dentist appointment, it’s essential that children as young as one have their teeth assessed to catch any early concerns.  Typically, these visits are usually short and involve little treatment.  But getting a jump start now can save you time and the expense of having to be referred to a pediatric specialist or surgeon if specific issues go undetected.

Preparing for the First Dentist Visit

It is best that kids see a dentist by the time they turn one. Then twice-yearly after that. Regular visits combined with the right home care will keep their teeth pearly white all through childhood.

 

Remember, for toddlers; their first visit can be a scary adventure. Weird instruments, lots of loud noises, and new people can rattle even the most laid-back 2-year-old. However, with careful preparation maybe some bribery, a first trip to the dentist can be fun.

 

The first exam will consist of checking your child’s teeth for decay, look at their bite and check any other potential issues with the gums, jaw and oral tissues.  Then any teeth will be cleaned and determine the need for fluoride. Some  first visit topics for discussing include:

  • Proper teeth brushing practices for your child’s teeth and gums
  • Fluoride needs
  • Cavity prevention
  • Developmental milestones
  • Oral habit such as thumb sucking. Tongue thrusting and lip sucking
  • Teething
  • Proper Nutrition

 

The Importance of the First Dentist Visit

Besides checking your child’s teeth for any concerns and discussing the proper cleaning methods, it’s important to get your child used to healthy oral hygiene habits. Getting them started now with the proper dental care routine, will ensure they continue taking exceptional care of their teeth well into adulthood.

 

Your child my only have a gummy grin studded with just a couple of freshly sprouted teeth or showing off a mouthful of pearly whites, regular dental care with a dentist they are comfortable with will help build their confidence with their dental visits.

 

We recommend seeing children every six months to help them get used to going to the dentist.

 

Healthy Dental Practices at Home

Try these healthy at home tips to keep your child on the path to a bright smile.

 

  • Curb sucking habits early. They lead to crooked or mis-aligned teeth and possible overbite.
  • It’s best to help your toddler brush after breakfast and before bed and recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry children under eight brush with guidance from parents.
  • Pick a soft, kid-size brush. Swap with a new brush every three months. A pea-size amount of toothpaste on your child’s brush is plenty. This amount is adequate fluoride and will prevent fluorosis, a possibly damaging oral condition caused by over-ingestion of fluoride.
  • Avoid starchy and sugary snacks. They will stick to teeth and increase the risk of decay.
  • Contact your local water department to see if your water is fluoridated and talk to your dentist about the best fluoride treatment
  • If your child is not able to brush, rinse their mouth with water to wash away food particles and sugar.

 

To learn more about children’s dentistry, visit our website or call us today.

5 Reasons Why You Should Maintain Healthy Gums

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The foundation for a healthy mouth is your gums. Neglecting them can lead to issues such as Gingivitis, a common mild form of gum disease. Gingivitis can occur causing irritation, redness, and swelling (inflammation) of the area surrounding the gum  at the base of your tooth called the gingiva.  Gingivitis left untreated can lead to a much more severe gum disease called periodontitis as well as tooth loss.

 

While losing teeth is very concerning,  gum disease can result in other significant health issues as well.

Major Health Issues Associated with Periodontal Disease

 

Diabetes — Patients who suffer from diabetes along with periodontal disease may have increased trouble regulating their blood sugar than diabetic patients with healthy gums.

 

Stroke — Gum disease raises the risk of the kind of stroke that is created by blocked arteries.

 

Premature births — A woman with gum disease during pregnancy may be more likely to deliver her baby too early. The infant may have a higher chance of low birth weight.

 

Atherosclerosis and heart disease — Gum disease increases the chance of obstructed arteries, heart disease, and is believed to worsen existing heart disease.

 

Respiratory disease — Bacteria related to gum disease may worsen existing lung conditions or lead to new lung infections. It is imperative for senior adults in assisted living facilities such as nursing homes maintain good dental hygiene. They are at a higher risk for bacteria from the mouth traveling to the lungs resulting in severe pneumonia.

Gum Disease Warnings You Should Not Ignore

Healthy gums are firm and pale pink fitting tightly around the teeth, indications of gingivitis might include the below:

  • Swollen or puffy gums
  • Your gums bleed when brushing or flossing
  • Dusky red or dark red gums
  • Tender Gums
  • Receding Gums
  • Bad breath

 

If you have any of notice any of the above symptoms, you should contact us immediately to schedule an appointment. The sooner you schedule a gum examination, the better the chances are the damage caused by gingivitis can be reversed and prevent its progression to periodontitis.