While brushing their teeth at home can keep their gums healthy and strong, it is still advised that your children develop a dental routine starting at an early age. In this way, their dentist will be able to evaluate the condition of their teeth and start planning for the necessary treatment plans right away.
Now the question is, how often should your child visit for dental cleaning? And what are the other important things you should know before going with your child to the dentist?
What Happens During a Kid’s Dental Cleaning
A child’s dental cleaning is very different from the routine preventive or a regular cleaning for adults. The main purpose of a kid’s dental cleaning is to check the development and growth of your their tooth and gums. Any dental issues that may affect the normal development of your child’s teeth and mouth will be addressed during the visit.
On the first visit, a dental X-ray will be taken. The dentist will examine the teeth and jaw to look for signs of tooth decay, developmental problems, infections, or tumors. Usually, the actual cleaning is done on the second visit.
When Should Your Child Start Going to the Dentist
A lot of kids normally start to get dental cleaning when they reach their first birthday. But it is recommended to take your child as early as six months old.
Since a kid’s dental cleaning is more of an examination and diagnosis, you do not really need to worry whether your child will be able to handle the procedure.
How Often Should Your Child Visit
Your child can visit the dentist for a regular or preventive checkup once every six months.
Now, if your child has special dental needs, you may want to schedule regular checkups on a more frequent basis. This may include children who have special medical conditions that affect their dental and overall health.
Why Consistent Dental Cleaning Is Important
Keeping your child’s teeth clean is not only important to keep a healthy smile but also to maintain their overall health. The mouth and teeth are the first line of defense against diseases. Your child’s mouth is filled with bacteria and food debris. With good oral hygiene, the germs and bacteria as well as plaque are removed and kept away from the rest of the body.
Maintaining a healthy smile can keep a lot of oral diseases away. It also helps to prevent gum disease and tooth decay, both of which are common among children.
If you notice any signs of dental issues, such as bleeding gums, bad breath, and swollen gums, visit a dentist as soon as possible. This can prevent the development of more serious dental problems.
Prevent Gum Disease
Gum disease is one of the most common dental issues among children. Aside from brushing their teeth regularly and having them floss their teeth at least once a day, it is essential that you take them to the dentist for dental cleaning.
During the appointment, the dentist will be able to detect any signs of gum disease.
If the condition is still minimal, the dentist will be able to treat the disease right away. If the disease is already severe, dental treatment may be needed to arrest the condition.
Clean Tartar and Plaque
Your child’s teeth are going to be exposed to tartar and plaque as they grow older. There are certain foods that can contribute to the buildup of tartar and plaque, such as sticky or sugary foods.
By getting your kid’s teeth cleaned every six months, you are able to remove the bacteria and tartar that can cause gum disease.
Conclusion
There are a lot of dental issues that can affect the overall health of your child, as well as the development of their teeth. By regularly getting dental checkups, you are able to prevent a lot of dental problems now and in the future.
Smart Dental Care is a smart pediatric dentistry in Provo, Utah. Let us help your child maintain a healthy bright smile. Schedule an appointment with us today!