High-quality pediatric dental care can help our young patients develop healthy oral hygiene habits that extend into adulthood. The American Dental Association recommends that young patients complete professional cleanings every six months, and develop thorough at-home oral hygiene routines. Our Glendale dentists are here to help patients do all of these things! Today we’re going to be talking about the basics of a strong pediatric dental routine. Let’s get started!
Professional pediatric dental care is important for a number of reasons:
- Timely cleanings help patients avoid developing dental cavities as well as gum disease
- Prompt treatment of dental problems helps minimize the patient’s risk of suffering from related long-term oral health issues
- Positive dental experiences in childhood help patients avoid developing dental anxiety and phobias
- Our dental team works to educate pediatric patients about the importance of dental care, and how to care for their smiles
Some parents and caregivers have asked why professional dental care is necessary for pediatric patients, when these patients will lose their primary teeth anyway. The answer is that dental problems that begin in the teeth can quickly extend to other parts of the patient’s smile—including the gum tissue and the jawbone tissue. Additionally, it is important for young patients to retain their primary teeth so that they can develop healthy speech patterns and eat comfortably.
When helping your child care for their smile at home you want to emphasize:
- Brushing teeth gently—applying too much pressure can lead to dental damage
- Brushing for at least two minutes—try setting a timer to keep your child on track
- Learning not to swallow toothpaste—children should not use fluoridated toothpaste until they have mastered this
Our Glendale dentists are here to provide you and your child with the guidance you need to establish a strong pediatric oral hygiene routine. Give us a call to learn more!