The first step to dental cleaning is to establishing a dental home with a pediatric dentist. It is recommended that most children are seen every six months for an exam and cleaning. Children with high risk for oral health disease should be seen more often. For children that are high risk for cavities it may be recommended to have an exam and cleaning as often as every three months. It is important to remember that prevention and early detection can save from unnecessary discomfort, time, and expense. To prepare your child for their cleaning you can watch you tube or other videos on getting ready to see the dentist, practice cleaning you childs teeth and if your child is old enough have them clean your teeth. It is important to reassure them that the purpose of dental visits is to help teeth to be healthy and feel good and that nothing should hurt.
What happens during a routine check-up appointment?
One of the philosophies at Epic Dentistry for Kids is to create a positive experience during dental care so that children grow up loving going to the dentist. Routine check-ups are one of the ways this attitude is created. Visiting the dentist regularly helps reduce anxiety about having oral health procedures and creates good habits for life. It is very important to have dental cleanings at a minimum of every six months. During these visits, the patient’s teeth are cleaned, brushing instructions are given, digital radiographs are taken, and a thorough exam is done. These steps help to establish good habits for life and keep your child’s mouth healthy.
How should we care for teeth and gums between appointments?
Prevention is very important for your child’s oral health. There are four steps to a child’s oral health prevention. First, establish a dental home with a pediatric dentist. Second, brush (with a small smear of toothpaste) and floss after breakfast and before bedtime every day. Remember not to wash toothpaste off the teeth after brushing. Third, brush your child’s tongue as part of their brushing routine. Finally, limit carbohydrates/sugars to mealtime and keep them away from bedtimes. Gums become unhealthy when organic debris is left on them or near them. This debris creates a breeding ground for bacteria that cause oral health problems such as gum disease. By having good oral hygiene daily, children can establish habits that help them enjoy a healthy mouth for their entire life.
Are there certain precautions specific to teenagers?
There are some special precautions teens and young adults should take. First, never start smoking. Most people who have a nicotine addiction became addicted in their young adult years, and nicotine addiction is very hard to overcome. So, never start so that you never have to stop. Smoking leads to many oral health problems. Problems such as gum disease, oral cancer, and periodontal disease have a much lower chance of happening for non-smokers. Next, avoid piercings in the mouth. These commonly chip and crack teeth. Finally, avoid junk food, especially at night.
