Why Dental Exam and Cleaning is Important for your Kids’ Teeth

Kids who start practicing good oral hygiene during their early stages in life are more likely to continue doing so as adults compared to those that don’t. They are also unlikely to encounter dental problems in their lives and have high self-esteem. Being a parent, it is your role to ensure your kid’s teeth and gums are healthy, and their smile too.

Why is Dental Care in Kids Critical?

1. Prevention of Dental Diseases

Studies indicate that majority of the kids in the U.S suffer from tooth decay. If this isn’t treated, it may result in a lot of pain and infections, which may have effects on the kid’s eating, speaking, and general health.

Do you now see why you should take your baby to see the dentist once they turn a year old? When your child develops good dental hygiene practices at this tender age, he or she develops a defense against dental issues such as gum disease, plaque, and cavities.

The fact that physical examinations are important is inarguable. For instance, the dentist may point out your kid’s unhealthy habits. They may also point out the ones that promote good oral health. Knowing which habits should stay and which ones should be done away with helps you keep your child on track and ensure they are cavity-free.

2. Introduction to Good Oral Hygiene

As the dentist checks your child’s teeth, they may advise you on some actions you need to take so that the kid’s teeth remain healthy. Your dentist may encourage these habits:

• Use a washcloth to clean your baby’s gums and teeth gently.
• Teach your young ones how to brush all teeth surfaces. Let them do this for about two minutes, twice daily using fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss between the child’s teeth to get rid of food that may be stuck between their teeth and plaque, which leads to decay.
• Make the brushing and flossing a fun process. Let your child choose their favorite toothbrush and toothpaste.
• You may also sing a song, so time passes.
• Encourage the brushing of teeth after eating candy or drinking juice. This prevents decay.
• Limit the kid’s consumption of starchy drinks and foods.
• Make sure they drink lots of water. This neutralizes the cavity-causing acids.

3. Establishment of Good Relationships

People who were not taken to the dentist in their younger years tend to dread dental visits. The ones who have been in the dentist’s chair for as long as they can remember, on the other hand, are unlikely to suffer from dental phobia.
Taking your kid for dental exams and cleanings helps familiarize them with the dentist, equipment, and procedures. As this continues, they will be more calm and relaxed during procedures in the future.

4. Early Detection of Dental Issues

As the kid continues growing, the examinations and cleanings may reveal some orthodontic issues which need addressing. It is good to identify these issues during their early stages before they advance and cause more significant problems. When detected early, there is a wide range of treatment options available. Your dentist in Hemet, CA, may discuss with you the right path to take but early detection is one of the benefits of these appointments.

What Should You Do Between Dental Visits?

You should ensure you take good care of your kid’s gums and teeth. Plaque continues to buildup on the teeth but is manageable by regular flossing and brushing. Let us look at the various tips for caring for your teeth at home:

• Brush at least two times a day with fluoridated toothpaste.
• Floss daily
• Use mouthwash to control plaque-causing bacteria. This also ensures your breath is fresh.

Quick Facts You Need to Know About Regular Dental Checkups

• Making those trips to the dentist regularly helps keep your gums and teeth healthy.
• Regular dental visits consist of two parts – the cleanings and check-ups.
• During the check-up, the dental professional checks your oral health to determine trouble areas.
• During teeth cleaning, the dental professional removes tartar and plaque buildup and polishes your teeth.
• You should at least have your teeth cleaned twice yearly or as the dental professional recommends.

Visit Glenn C. delaRoca DDS for an exam and cleaning in Hemet, CA. Our family-friendly dental practice offers children’s dentistry as well. Book an appointment today!