Prevention FAQsAt what age should my child see the dentist?We recommend that children have their first dental checkup around their first birthday, or six months after their first tooth appears. Although it is never too late to start dental care, we encourage all parents to bring their children in before their third birthday. What is the best way to clean baby teeth?To prepare baby for brushing, clean his/her mouth and gums even before teeth begin to appear. Once your baby's teeth appear, brush twice a day, after breakfast and before bed. Use an infant size toothbrush, or even a moist washcloth if baby absolutely refuses a toothbrush. Keep brushing sessions fun and short, and soon baby will accept this new daily routine. How often should my child see the dentist?As part of preventive care, children and teens should visit our office every six months in order to prevent dental decay as much as possible. Teeth cleanings remove debris that build up on teeth, irritate the gums, and cause decay. Fluoride treatments renew the fluoride content of the enamel, strengthening teeth and preventing cavities. Even if decay is found, we can then treat it early before bigger problems occur. We also utilize these six-month visits to monitor your child's dental and facial growth and development, to emphasize great home care, and to address any questions you may have. How do sealants help protect teeth from cavities?Sealants are a protective coating placed over the chewing surfaces of molars, made of a plastic material similar to tooth-colored fillings. They act as a barrier to food and bacteria that cause decay in the pits and grooves of molars. If your child has good oral hygiene and avoids biting hard objects, sealants may last for many years. So, your child will be protected throughout the most cavity-prone years. Molars that are more deeply grooved have a higher risk of developing decay, and will benefit greatly from being sealed. For a child, the teeth most at risk of decay are the six-year and twelve-year molars. |
