How Often Should Children Have Routine Dental Care Appointments?

For most children, routine dental care differs little from that of an adult, which includes recommended biannual visits to the dentist. Though children lose baby teeth as they grow, it is still important to care for a child's changing smile. Without proper home care and regular checkups, kids could face a host of problems that can impact dental health for years to come.

Understanding a child's need for routine dental care

Consistent visits to the dentist should begin early in life. Children should be taken to see a dentist every six months for cleanings and checkups for numerous reasons. Sometimes, a dentist may recommend more frequent visits to prevent or monitor the development of certain dental issues.

Prevent decay and gum disease

Children are especially prone to tooth decay and gum disease. While genetics may play a role, children are also:

• Less likely to brush and floss thoroughly on their own
• More likely to consume a sugary diet
• More prone to infections from tooth and gum injuries because of an active lifestyle

These factors can make it easy for children to develop cavities and gingivitis at a young age. For some, these issues could become chronic.

Detect dental issues early in life

The severity of tooth alignment problems can often be reduced with early intervention and preventative care. In other situations, treatment during childhood can lead to better, faster results in adolescence. When children receive routine dental care, the dentist can take small but important steps to help improve bite patterns and tooth alignment.

Develop a healthy attitude towards oral health care

When children are brought to the dentist on a regular basis, it helps prevent the development of dental anxiety. This can have a positive impact on a child's future and how they approach oral health and personal dental hygiene habits. Putting a child at ease and modeling the importance of dental care can help children build good habits for a healthier life.

Maintaining proper dental care at home

Taking a child to the dentist on a regular basis is just the start of oral care for kids. Healthy home care habits are just as critical in keeping young teeth clean and strong. When brushing and flossing, parents should assist until the child is able to address every tooth surface thoroughly and independently. The fine motor skills needed for detailed tooth cleaning do not typically develop until the age of six or seven.

After breakfast and before bed, children should brush for two minutes and then floss with help as needed. Older children can also benefit from using a cavity prevention mouthwash as an extra layer of protection. Finally, parents should limit sticky, sugary foods and try to curtail bad dental habits, such as finger sucking, nail-biting, and chewing on foreign objects.   

Conclusion

Regular six-month checkups are a key part of routine dental care for most kids. Otherwise, a child could develop serious dental issues that can affect oral health later in life. Parents should also follow a dentist's recommendations on which home care techniques and products to use and when to schedule the next appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://dentistryonpark.com or call Dentistry on Park, LLC at (781) 443-8131 for an appointment in our Stoughton office.

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