Cavities can develop in children's teeth as soon as they erupt. This can start as early as three months, but most children will get that first tooth around six months of age. Therefore, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends starting regular dental checkups for kids within six months of the eruption of the first tooth or by their first birthday. This way, parents and their child's dentist can work together to ensure baby teeth stay as healthy as possible.
Chewing is the first step in healthy digestion. Therefore, baby teeth are essential to children getting the nutrition they need from their diet. In addition, baby teeth can impact a child's speech as they learn to talk.
Baby teeth hold space and pave the way for the correct eruption of permanent teeth. Premature loss of baby teeth can cause the adult smile to come in crooked. Also, decaying baby teeth can be painful for children and harm their gum health, further causing issues with permanent teeth.
Not only can pediatric dentists educate parents on proper dental care for their children, but also they can recommend treatments to give children's teeth additional protection. Tooth decay is a leading health problem among children. Therefore, your child's dentist will likely recommend the following treatments for your child's teeth:
A pediatric dentist recommends these about twice a year. This allows the dentist to thoroughly clean the child's teeth and catch cavities early when they are easier to treat. These are also great opportunities to educate kids on dental health and hygiene.
Because children are extra prone to cavities, it helps to give them extra protection. Fluoride is a substance known to harden tooth enamel. Therefore, a pediatric dentist may suggest painting a child's teeth with a fluoride varnish so tooth enamel is stronger and less likely to decay.
The molars of children's baby and adult teeth tend to have deep grooves where bacteria and plaque can collect and lead to cavities. Fortunately, a pediatric dentist can coat the tops of these molars and premolars with a plastic-like sealant material. This material is hardened with a special light, forming a barrier to keep plaque and bacteria out.
In addition to following the recommendations of a pediatric dentist, parents can help ensure their children practice good oral hygiene at home. Also, parents should encourage their children to avoid processed sugar and drink adequate water. Parents should wipe their gums with a clean washcloth or gauze pad after feedings when caring for infants.
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Baby teeth help determine your child's oral health, and protecting them is important. Our pediatric dental team can advise parents on how to best care for their children's teeth. To learn more about dental checkups for kids and protecting children's baby teeth, call us today.
Request an appointment or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at 832-579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.
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