Why dental care for children is so important
It can be easy to think that your child does not need to see a dentist if they don’t have any problems with their teeth. But nothing could be further from the truth. It’s vital not only to protect your child’s baby and adult teeth but also to get them into the best dental habits which will stick with them into adulthood. Children’s dentistry focuses on treating children from birth until adolescence.
Is there a difference between dental care for children and adult dental care?
Dentistry for children focuses very much on prevention rather than treating problems as they occur. Many people can develop a phobia of visiting the dentist, particularly if they don’t have regular check-ups as a child so they can come to understand that this is simply a part of their routine healthcare. Our dentists understand that children can be worried about visiting a dental practice. That’s why they are equipped with the skills to relax uneasy children during family dentistry check-ups and treatment.
When should I first bring my child to the dentist?
The best time to visit your dentist for the first time is when their first tooth has erupted – usually no later than around the age of one or two. If you can also bring your child with you to your own dental check-ups, they will soon see there is nothing to be worried about. Regular visits to the dentist can acclimatise your child to our dental team as well as the sights, smells and sounds of the practice.
Why regular kids dental visits are important
- While baby teeth aren’t permanent, it is still vital to protect them from decay
- Even though they will eventually fall out, baby teeth are vital for speech and chewing food
- Early loss or decay of baby teeth can lead to a child feeling self-conscious
- Losing baby teeth too early can be detrimental to the formation of adult teeth
- Your dentist can spot any problems such as a crossbite or the need for orthodontics
- Treatment is carried out at the best age to ensure it is effective
What treatment might my child be offered at the dentist?
Because your dentist will focus on preventing any tooth problems for your child, it is likely that most of your family dental care visits will be routine check-ups, which may involve taking scans or X-rays of the teeth and jaw as well as cleaning and polishing. Ace Dental also offers the following dental treatments for your children.
- Fluoride applications to help prevent tooth decay
- Advice on effective brushing for the best children’s dental health
- Fissure sealants, which are a painless way to protect back teeth from decay.
- Corrective treatments for an underbite or crossbite.
- Tooth extractions for overcrowded or wisdom teeth
- Dental fillings for kids teeth
- Root canal work (usually as a result of trauma such as sports injury)
How often should my child visit the dentist?
We recommend that your child has regular six-monthly appointments so our team can monitor their dental health and oral development.
When should you start using toothpaste?
Even before your child’s first tooth erupts, you should take care of their gums by using a clean washcloth or a soft-bristled toothbrush and water. Once their first teeth emerge, you can start to use a tiny drop of fluoride toothpaste to brush their teeth twice daily. Regular brushing will help to support the dental care for kids offered by your dentist.
What if my child has a dental emergency?
If your child has a severe toothache, a broken, chipped or fractured tooth, or any other dental issue which is causing them pain or stress, it can be considered as a dental emergency. Contact us immediately. We are here to help if your child’s dental health is at risk.
Call on 0800 849 4959 to find out how our team can help you improve your smile.
