Kids need to see the dentist every six months to help protect their smiles, so they avoid painful issues like tooth decay, and enjoy a full and strong smile. We even have treatments designed to lower the risk of cavities! In today’s blog, your Rochester, MN, dentist talks about treating your child’s smile.
When Kids Need to See Us
Your child’s first visit to the dentist should happen at around age one, after the first primary tooth erupts. This initial exam doesn’t involve treatment, but is a simple knee-to-knee lap exam to make sure teeth are erupting properly. At age two, kids need to start having routine six-month visits for checkups and cleanings. These visits allow us to monitor the smile as your child grows and changes, and to identify areas of concern in the earliest stages. In addition to watching for cavities, we also want to assess possible risk factors for misalignment, and take steps to protect their smiles. We also remove all plaque and tartar from the teeth, something brushing and flossing alone cannot do. The cleaning not only fights bad breath and teeth stains, but lowers the risk of cavities and gingivitis. If your child ever reports a toothache, then you should bring him or her in for an exam!
Fluoride Treatments and Dental Sealants
We also offer preventive treatments that are designed to lower the risk of tooth decays. During each of your child’s checkup and cleaning visits, we will apply fluoride in a topical gel form to help strengthen the outer enamel, lowering the chances of enamel erosion and cavities. We can also apply dental sealants to the rear teeth, which coat them and prevent food particles from being stuck on or between the teeth. These layers then lower the risk of cavities, as these teeth are particularly vulnerable for kids, due to their difficulty in being reached when they brush and floss. The sealants can stay in place for up to ten years, and wear away gradually with time.
Continuing Care at Home
In addition to seeing our team every six months, you should make sure your kids are caring or their smiles from home too! Which means cutting back on how many foods and drinks they consume that are high in sugar and starch. Kids also need to brush and floss daily as well! If you have any questions, then give us a call anytime.
TALK TO YOUR ROCHESTER, MN DENTIST ABOUT CHILDREN’S DENTAL CARE
We would like to help your kids enjoy optimal oral health for years to come. If you would like to find more about helping kids enjoy healthy smiles, or if you wish to book an appointment at our location, call Greenview Cosmetic And Family Dentistry in Rochester, MN at (507) 281-3659.
