We know that most of our normal routines have been upended recently by the pandemic. Work, school, play, vacations and family visits all look different these days. But when it comes to medical care, just how important are your child’s routine dental visits? Visiting a dentist twice a year is as important for overall health as seeing the family physician or pediatrician.
The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend children be seen by a dentist by the time their first tooth erupts, or at least by age 1. Early dental visits teach a child that oral health is important, teach them proper oral care and encourage them to have a good attitude about dental visits as they grow.
Scheduling regular routine visits for your child every 6 months has many benefits, including:
Preventing cavities and tooth decay
Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease among children in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that more than 40 percent of children have decay by the time they reach kindergarten. Tooth decay and cavities can lead to pain, trouble concentrating and other medical issues. Children with healthy teeth chew food easily, learn to speak clearly and smile with confidence.
Removing plaque and tartar
Even with regular brushing and flossing at home, plaque can still build up. Dentist’s tools are most effective in removing plaque that has hardened into tartar. Even babies’ mouths can develop a buildup of damaging bacteria along the gums.
Detecting changes in oral health
Because children’s mouths grow and change rapidly, your pediatric dentist monitors your child’s oral health at different stages of development. From baby teeth to molars, they look for gum disease, inflammation, proper bite and jaw alignment, hidden cavities, the effectiveness of their brushing habits and more.
Reach out to us at Capital City Pediatric Dentistry to schedule your child’s 6 month visit if you haven’t already. We realize that our office closure earlier this year may have thrown your schedule off, but it’s time to get back into a routine. We look forward to seeing you and your child again soon!
*Sources: HealthyChildren.org, Colgate, AAPD, ADA