How Pediatric Dentists Educate Parents and Kids
A pediatric dentist is an integral part of maintaining your child's health. Oral hygiene is a key element that can make or break a child's ability to fend off infections and stay healthy. Regular visits to a pediatric practice can make your children comfortable with dentistry. It familiarizes them with behaviors to keep them on the healthy path from infancy through adulthood.
The benefits of a pediatric dentist
Going to the dentist can frighten children, especially the first trip. To avoid this, many pediatric practices are inviting with fun and colorful themes, video games and treasure box gifts. At a pediatric office, kids may be encouraged to wear sunglasses and watch movies while their teeth are examined and cleaned.
Hygienists typically introduce children to dental equipment with silly names. They often give kids the chance to hear them and feel them on their hands before putting them in their mouths. These steps help take the surprise out of the visit and ease fears.
Pediatric dentists set the standard of care
Expectations for dental visits at every stage
When first meeting with a pediatric dentist, parents and children can expect a visit to last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. This depends on the age of the patient and where they fall in the stage of tooth development. If a child has never been to a dentist before elementary school, there may be more issues to address. No matter their age or the condition of the child’s teeth, a dentist should set the standard for healthy oral practices beginning in childhood.
Establish proper oral hygiene habits
One essential duty for a pediatric dentist is educating parents and kids on the importance of proper oral hygiene. According to the American Dental Association, bacterial infections are one of the leading causes of tooth decay. When teeth and gums become compromised due to poor oral health, dangerous amounts of bacteria can fester in the mouth. With time, this infection can enter the bloodstream through the gums.
Keeping a regular oral hygiene routine is the main way to combat decay and gum disease. This includes brushing, flossing and rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash.
Since most young children cannot brush or floss well on their own, you should pay close attention to the dentist's advice. A pediatric dentist can offer tips and recommend special tools to care for your child’s teeth. This will help you brush and floss their teeth until they are ready to do it themselves.
Things to watch for going forward
At some point, baby teeth give way to permanent adult teeth. A pediatric dentist can help prepare you for when permanent teeth erupt. Many dentists suggest using sealant on adult teeth to add an extra layer of protection against bacterial decay. Sealants are especially helpful in children with a genetic predisposition to soft or porous teeth. Pediatric dentists can also tell you if your child will need orthodontic work in the future.
Do you have a pediatric dentist?
Finding a pediatric dentist who makes your children feel comfortable helps to establish a healthy oral hygiene routine. Regular dental visits will help you and your child learn about their teeth. If you need a pediatric dentist in the Dumont area, call our office.
Request an appointment here: https://novapedsdentistry.com or call Nova Pediatric Dentistry at (201) 812-2952 for an appointment in our Dumont office.
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