What to Know About Your Children's Dental Health
Starting early is key when it comes to developing good dental habits. Teaching your children to take care of their teeth will ensure that they have healthy teeth and gums throughout their adult years. However, there's more to oral hygiene than just regular brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. Regular visits to the dentist are also needed. Regular checkups and cleanings will ensure that their teeth and gums are developing properly and that any problems that may occur are treated early. Here's what you should know about your children's dental health.
When to Visit the Dentist
Knowing when to visit the dentist is the first step in setting your children up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. It's recommended that you take your children to the dentist for the first time either when their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday. After that, checkups and teeth cleanings are recommended every six months. A pediatric dentist or a kids dentist can offer specialized care for children and are often a good choice. Regular visits to the dentist are also needed in order to ensure that your children's teeth and gums are developing properly.
Orthodontic Treatment May Be Needed
Another thing to consider is that orthodontic treatment may be needed. If your children's teeth are misaligned or if there are other issues, orthodontic treatment can be started earlier than ever. New technology has made orthodontic treatment possible for children as young as age 7. Clear plastic appliances can also be used instead of the traditional metal braces and retainers. Your kid's dentist will be able to recommend orthodontic treatment if it is required. Starting treatment early can prevent alignment issues and other orthodontic issues from becoming major problems later on down the road.
Cavity Prevention Treatments Are Available
If you worry about cavities and other forms of dental decay, there are a few treatments that can help. Dental sealants can be applied to your children's teeth in order to prevent dental decay. They can reduce cavities by up to 60 percent for at least four years. On average, dental sealants cost between $30 and $40 per tooth. Fluoride treatments are also available and can help protect against tooth decay. These treatments range in price between $20 and $50.
When it comes to your children's dental health, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, knowing when to visit the dentist is key. Regular visits are a must in order to keep your children's teeth and gums healthy. Orthodontic treatment may also be needed and can be started as young as age 7. There are also plenty of cavity prevention treatments that you may want to consider for your children.