Many well-meaning parents and guardians mistakenly assume that there’s no need to take their child for a routine dental checkup and cleaning until they’ve grown a full mouth of teeth already. However, the American Dental Association recommends scheduling their initial visit when their first tooth erupts, typically around age 1, and then scheduling checkups and cleanings every 6 months thereafter.
But you might wonder why it’s necessary to monitor primary teeth that are going to fall out to make room for their adult teeth, anyway. Continue reading to learn 3 ways preventive services benefit your child’s dental health!
Benefit #1: Prevent Cavities
Just like adults, kids’ mouths are full of bacteria that can form harmful plaque that contributes to common oral issues, such as tooth decay. You might think cavities in baby teeth are no big deal since they’re meant to fall out eventually, but nothing could be further from the truth.
Unfortunately, cavities are contagious and can spread from one tooth to another, or even affect your child’s gums and jawbone. This, in turn, can affect how their adult teeth develop and grow. Thankfully, they can also be prevented by scheduling routine checkups and cleanings with your family’s pediatric dentist. This allows them to monitor your child’s condition so they can catch and treat any areas of thinning enamel before they become more problematic.
Benefit #2: Avoid Gum Disease
Did you know that sources estimate that approximately half of kids in the United States suffer from some form of gum disease? This common condition occurs when germs penetrate your child’s connective tissues, triggering a painful infection that won’t resolve itself. The longer you wait to treat it, the worse it becomes. Over time, it can progress to periodontitis, the most advanced stage, which is sometimes manageable but not curable.
Not only that, but gingivitis, the earliest stage, starts small, so it’s easy for parents to miss. Fortunately, your pediatric dentist has the experience and state-of-the-art equipment to identify periodontal problems and provide appropriate services to halt the disease in its tracks.
Benefit #3: Teach the Value of Dental Care
Many children avoid tasks they consider chores, making it challenging to encourage them to brush and floss their teeth every morning and night. Taking them to their pediatric dentist for routine checkups and cleanings reinforces the importance of maintaining oral hygiene to prevent potential problems.
Additionally, their provider can help teach them about the different parts of their mouth and how to keep them clean at home. The more they learn about their teeth and gums, the more likely they are to help take care of them.
If you have questions about your child’s dental condition or how to help encourage them to care for their smile, their dentist can provide more information at your next appointment!
About the Practice
At LMK Pediatric Dental Care, children benefit from two experts eager to help them build and maintain their healthiest, happiest smiles. Dr. Karr and Dr. Nisha are board-certified pediatric dentists with 25+ years of combined experience, and today, they collaborate to provide a complete menu of services to meet even the most unique needs. Their caring and compassionate approach is paired with advanced technology to help children feel comfortable while they deliver accurate treatment results. You can request an appointment on the website or calling one of their conveniently located offices near you.
