One of the most crucial steps parents can take for the health of their child’s smile is taking them to see the dentist as often as recommended. Study after study has proven early dental care is crucial for the proper development of the adult teeth. When a child sees the dentist on a regular basis, minor issues can be found before they become major ones and begin to cause damage to a child’s teeth and gums. The Pediatrician in Newark NJ recommends children begin seeing the dentist around the age of one and have preventative care services carried out twice a year for good oral health.
At each preventative care appointment, a child receives dental services that are crucial for the health of their smile:
• Teeth cleaning is one of the most important aspects of dental care for children. Often, children do not have the ability to properly brush their teeth and often miss key areas that make their teeth vulnerable to cavities. Teeth cleaning removes all of the plaque, tartar, and biofilm on a child’s teeth and ensures they are clean and free of the substances that can cause decay. Their teeth are not only cleaned, but the gums are also flossed.
• The child will receive two examinations during their visit to the dentist. The first exam is carried out by the dental hygienist who carries out an initial examination to ensure there are no major issues that need to be reported to the dentist. The next examination is a much more thorough one and is carried out by the dentist to ensure no oral health concerns or development issues with the teeth, gums, or jawbone are found.
• If the child is over the age of five, they will have X-rays taken once a year to check their growth and development and to screen for any cavities. X-rays can allow a dentist to diagnose cavities before outward signs begin occurring, so the child’s oral health is protected.
In addition to these services, the Pediatrician in Newark NJ also recommends dentists offer patient counseling to help children and their parents know how to properly care for the teeth at home. If your child is in need of dental services, Click here and visit ChildSmiles.FamilySmiles.
