Amazing Dental Care for Little Smiles
If you have a little one at home in need of quality dentistry, we’re ready to help. Dr. Earnest can provide routine checkups and all of the services your son or daughter needs to smile with health and happiness. He understands the importance of positive dental experiences early on, which is why he’s always friendly and gentle. The best part is that you and your children get exceptional dental care all under the same roof. Keep reading to learn more about the services we can provide for your kids.
When Should Your Child First Visit the Dentist?
Your child should see their dentist by age 1 or up to 6 months after their first tooth has erupted. This first visit is to ensure that your child’s teeth are growing in properly and that their gums are healthy. It also gets them used to the idea of seeing the dentist and letting other people touch their mouth. Building an understanding and familiarity with the dentist early on for your child will make it more likely that they care for their smile on their own down the road.
Dental Sealants
One of the treatments we offer for children is called dental sealants, which can decrease your son or daughter’s chances of getting cavities. Dental sealants are thin coatings of resin that are applied to the chewing surfaces of their back molars. These are the teeth that come in contact with the most food, and they’re also the hardest for kids to brush. Dental sealants smooth out the cusps and crevices of teeth to make it less likely for plaque to collect and cause decay.
Fluoride Treatment
Another service we offer for children is fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that can strengthen teeth and fight off cavities. This mineral can be found in most tap water, and you can also buy fluoridated toothpaste. However, concentrated forms of fluoride can be beneficial for your children. We can paint fluoride onto their smile in the form of a varnish to strengthen and remineralize their teeth. This will make it harder for decay to penetrate the teeth.
At-Home Oral Healthcare Tips for Parents
It’s important to help your children brush and floss until they are able to on their own. However, even when they can clean their own smile, it’s vital to facilitate their routine. Ensure that they’re brushing twice a day for two minutes each session. You can even play a fun song or dance to make brushing more enjoyable (and incentivize them to brush longer). Flossing can also be harder for children, so you should floss their teeth to remove plaque and bacteria until they can do it by themselves.
If you have any questions, or if you wish to schedule an appointment for your son or daughter, don’t hesitate to contact our children’s dentist today!