In last week’s blog, we talked about the consistent wear that all smiles endure throughout their lifetime, as well as how most individuals can benefit from a teeth-whitening procedure. Indeed, cosmetic dentistry aids in enhancing the appearance of our smile, but it is important not to neglect its health and function as well. In fact, the earlier you get started on an excellent preventive dental routine, the better. In today’s blog, your Leawood, KS dentist takes a look at the importance of oral hygiene for children, and how attending routine checkups is necessary for optimal growth and development.
A Chance to Monitor Development
Because taking care of your smile is a consistent and lifelong process, it goes without saying that the sooner one starts practicing excellent habits and getting excited about their health, the better. That being said, our team would recommend bringing your child into our office at either the sight of their first tooth or by their first birthday. This is to help familiarize your little one with the dental environment and staff, making for a more comfortable visit down the line.
At about age three, we will begin to see your son or daughter every six months for their checkups and gentle cleanings. This process allows our team to properly monitor development and ensure minor concerns that may arise do not turn into major ones. It also allows us to gently remove any deposits of harmful plaque or tartar, as well as provide advice on what areas may need more work. For more information about this process, contact our team today.
Additional Treatment When Needed
In addition to the benefits of a cleaning and exam, children’s dentistry affords versatility in smile development through the use of dental fluorides and sealants. While you may be doing everything by the book, sometimes tiny grins need a little help. Our team offers a couple of options to help boost your little one’s oral strength, such as with fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is present in most toothpaste as well as the water we drink. It helps boost strength by working with the enamel present on teeth and rebuilding the worn-down areas.
We also offer dental sealants, which consist of painting a thin layer of dental acrylic over the surfaces of the back molars. This treatment option helps prevent the negative effects of oral bacteria such as decay by filling the tiny crevices where bacteria like to lurk.
Increasing Chances of a Lifelong grin
Oral health is a much more involved process than many initially think, which is why it is imperative to stay on top of a routine. In fact, it is never too early to get your little one excited about his or her smile, and our team is ready to help.
Schedule Your Visit
Contact Dreem Dentistry in Leawood, KS by calling 913-681-5500 to learn more about the importance of preventive dentistry for your family, or schedule your appointment with our team today.