Whether children still have their baby teeth or are growing permanent adult teeth, the state of their teeth throughout each stage of their development is one of the most important aspects of their overall health
Regular check-ups for children allow parents to stay informed about their child’s dental health and also maintain or improve the state of their teeth. The experts say children should be visiting the dentist every six months from two years of age.
The idea of such early dental visits is still startling to many new parents but studies have shown that preschool-aged children are getting more tooth decay than ever before.
There are many important reasons why children should be visiting the dentist regularly and G Dental have compiled a list of some of the most important.
Ensuring healthy development of teeth
When baby teeth are healthy, it makes it easier for adult teeth to come through healthier and straighter. Neglecting these baby teeth could cause them to fall out prematurely which can mean the remaining teeth move forward or shift around the jaw. When this occurs, the permanent adult teeth are more likely to grow crooked and out of place, but regular visits to G Dental can help prevent this from happening.
Preventing tooth decay
Children love lollies and sweets, which can be the worst foods for their teeth. That’s why it’s vital for regular dental check-ups to find tooth decay and gum disease early. If caught early, these problems are quicker and easier to treat and easier treatment means less cost for the parent and less time spent in the dental chair.
When children develop their permanent adult teeth the damage is harder to treat as any baby teeth treated will be replaced by the adult teeth regardless. Adult teeth will be around for life so even more care needs to be taken and regular check-ups will ensure your child will have a healthy smile for life.
Tooth decay in children includes:
- A cloudy white band on the tooth surface close to the gum line which is the first sign of decay. This usually remains undetected by parents.
- A yellow, brown or black band on the tooth surface closest to the gum line that shows the progression to decay.
- Teeth that look like brownish-black stumps which indicate the child has advanced decay.
Keeping their mouth clean
G Dental recommends regular six-month check-ups from two years of age to remove built-up plaque and tartar and eradicate surface stains. By having clean teeth this prevents the build-up of bacteria which can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
Young children cannot clean their teeth adequately and trips to the dentist ensure professional cleanings to remove any plaque and food build up they might have missed.
Learning good oral hygiene habits
According to the Centre for Community Child Health, dental health in children has improved in the last ten years but it’s still estimated that 50% of children aged 6 years have tooth decay. Teaching children how to care for their teeth at a young age will equip them with the knowledge and enthusiasm to ensure effective dental hygiene through their life.
In the G Dental office, your child is taught by professionals on the importance of a clean mouth and the best ways to brush and floss.
Teaching children responsibility and routine
Regular trips to the dentist can teach children the importance of keeping commitments and necessary obligations. They can learn to keep their mouth healthy which in turn keeps their whole body healthy. This results in improved health habits and better response in adulthood.
Many parents fail to realise the importance of dental care for children, but starting ongoing dental health and hygiene increases the likelihood that children will grow up and become diligent about dental check-ups for themselves and their children.
Check-ups for children at G Dental
If you have children try and book an appointment at G Dental as soon as their first teeth erupt. If children learn early in life that dental visits aren’t a source of pain or fear, it may help with compliance which could prevent further complications.
For more information on dental care for children or to book in your child,
contact G Dental today.