In our last blog, we mentioned that you should plan a cleaning and examination before the holidays. This can be a busy time of year for many, and you may be tempted to skip this checkup to make room on your busy to-do list. However, an end of the year checkup can help ensure that your smile is happy and healthy for the new year. You can also bring your little one in for their checkup to ensure they are cavity-free before your holiday festivities start. In today’s blog, your team at Smith Dentistry in Greenville, TX, is here to talk about the importance of pediatric dental care.
Build Good Habits Early
Did you know that your little one should also be seeing the dentist twice a year? Like you, kids need checkups to monitor changes to their smiles and prevent many common oral health concerns. Before you bring them in for their first visit, you can prepare them for a cleaning and examination by practicing a good oral hygiene routine at home. When they begin developing their first few pearly whites, you can help them brush their teeth and floss, so they get used to this step each morning and night. As your child grows up, they may want to start practicing this by themselves. You can encourage this routine by leading by example and making the task more fun with a song or flavored toothpaste. Around the age of three, your child can begin coming in for biannual appointments.
Avoid Cavities With Preventive Care
Tooth decay is a common problem for patients of all ages, but especially for younger patients who are learning how to care for their smiles. It’s normal for a child to get a cavity, and when one does occur, we can help restore the tooth with a dental filling. If your little one seems more prone to tooth decay, your dentist may recommend additional preventive care like fluoride or sealants. Fluoride is a mineral that can help restrengthen the enamel and avoid cavities. Sealants are thin layers of resin that can be added to the molars to prevent cavities on the back teeth. These steps can help avoid the need for frequent restorative treatments.
How We Treat Other Concerns
Our experienced team can help with other concerns than just cavities. If you or your child snore or grind your teeth in your sleep, it could be a sign of a sleep disorder that can also affect your oral health. We can help diagnose the problem and find a helpful treatment that allows you to get better rest.
Talk To Our Team To Learn More!
Practicing a dental routine at a young age can help ensure that your kids build good oral hygiene habits. To schedule an appointment with our team, call Smith Dentistry in Greenville, TX, today at 903-455-5750.