Blog

Preventative Dental Care for Children Lays the Best Foundation for a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles

Most of us know the saying, “a strong house is built on a solid foundation.” That goes for teeth as well! The dental care children get at a young age helps build a foundation of strong, healthy teeth for the rest of their lives. The best approaches to providing dental care for children involve both dentists and parents working together to provide prevention and treatment for the child’s teeth. Keep reading below to see what preventive steps can be taken to ensure your child has a healthy, beautiful smile their entire lives!

The Dental Care Children Receive Makes a Lifetime of Difference

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, AAPD, recommends children begin to routinely visit a dentist for check ups starting at the age of one and continuing every six months afterward. Your child will become more familiar with the checkup process and instills at a young age the importance of regular visits to the dentist for the rest of their lives. Let’s see a few more ways to provide the best dental care for children.

Solid Routine at Home

The dental care children receive needs to start at home. Developing a consistent routine of brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash will not only protect their little teeth now but sets up a foundation of strong teeth for the rest of their lives. In addition, as parents and caregivers, when you set a good example and practice these routines as well, the child will be much more likely to carry proper dental care with them later in life.

Consistent Dental Checkups

The AAPD recommends checkups for children twice a year. The dental care children receive should consist of a thorough dental exam, cleaning, evaluating the condition of the child’s teeth, and recommending any possible treatments. X-rays should be taken as well to monitor teeth development and ensure healthy growth is occurring.

Opt for Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a naturally occurring element that can be used as a varnish on teeth. It prevents acid and bacteria from eroding teeth and causing decay by strengthening the tooth’s enamel. The American Dental Association, ADA, recommends fluoride treatments twice a year. The treatment is fast, painless, and 30-minutes after treatment, you can eat and drink like normal.

Mouth Guard Protection

Most of us have seen pictures of hockey players and other athletes losing teeth during the course of a game. The same thing can happen to little kids as well. It’s a good idea to invest in a mouth guard for your child if they will be participating in sports. The guards can often be formed in your dentist’s office to fit your child’s mouth for optimal protection.

Now you see how the dental care children receive can make a lifetime of difference for them. But who should you turn to for the best care possible? The answer is simple! Dr. Julie Liberman, DDS of Great Neck Dental Care NY, proudly serves patients of all ages in the Great Neck area, spanning New Hyde Park, Floral Park, Douglaston, Jericho, Roslyn, etc. Book your checkup today to build a foundation of healthy teeth and a beautiful smile for your child!