Should you be worried that your child might experience problems with dental decay? The truth is that cavities should be a concern for people at any age. Once teeth start to erupt, kids are vulnerable to issues that can require restorative dental work. With that said, there are actions that you can take to limit their risk for problems over time. One thing that can help is starting routine pediatric dental appointments at an early age. Early preventive appointments ensure that kids receive protection from their dentist. They also help you make it clear to your children that the health of their teeth matters, and that they should take care to protect their smile when they are old enough to care for their teeth on their own. Our Ankeny, IA dentist’s office is proud to help patients of all ages, which means we can help you and your children maintain healthy, lovely smiles!
People Of All Ages Are At Risk For Dental Decay
If you have teeth, you face risks from tooth decay. Fortunately, the right preventive efforts can help you consistently avoid problems that might require restorative dental work. While young children are not ready to start brushing and flossing their own teeth, the effort you put into maintaining their developing smile can keep them safe against oral bacteria and plaque buildup. You can further help your kids avoid trouble by providing them a varied, nutrient-rich diet that limits sugar.
Encouragement At An Early Age Can Help Kids Keep Their Teeth Healthy
While kids tend to be too young to brush and floss for themselves until the ages of six or seven, they can respond positively to efforts to convince them that smile care matters. At pediatric dental appointments, their dentist will provide education on oral hygiene as well as the preventive services that adults enjoy during routine dental checkups. These visits can also take time out to show kids how to brush and floss thoroughly, and why they should take care to keep their teeth clean. These lessons can help them form good habits when they are older and take more responsibility for their dental care.
What You Can Do To Help Kids Stay Cavity-Free Between Checkups
When they are still receiving your help with brushing and flossing, be as consistent and caring as possible with your kids while cleaning their teeth. Make sure that you do not rush into letting them care for their teeth on their own, as they need to be coordinated enough to effectively clean harder to reach spaces. You should also show them that you care about good oral health by modeling good brushing and flossing habits, and by making preventive care a priority for yourself.
Our Ankeny, IA Dentist Can Help Your Kids Stay Protected Against Dental Decay
With the right support and encouragement, kids can stay safe against tooth decay. To learn how our Ankeny, IA dental office can help you protect your child’s developing smile, call Dental Impressions at (515) 965-0230 to schedule a visit.
