Schedule A Checkup For The Whole Family

In a recent blog, we discussed why you should see the dentist regularly even if you take great care of your pearly whites at home. Your little one should be getting checkups, too. The team at Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, offers care for patients of all ages so that you can ensure your entire family’s smile is healthy. Whether this is your child’s first visit or a routine checkup, we will do our best to help them feel at ease.

Cleanings Are Not Just For Adults

At what age should you start bringing your child in for dental visits? You can bring them in for their very first appointment around the age of one. This appointment can be used as a way to help them feel comfortable with our team. Then, regular checkups can start around the age of three years old. Your little one needs to start seeing the dentist at a young age so that they can create good, long-lasting habits. Along with routine cleanings and examinations, you should also teach them a good hygiene routine at home that consists of brushing and flossing. If your child struggles with this, your dental team may be able to give you helpful tips to make this an easier experience for you and your little one. Remember to lead by example by taking care of your own smile and visiting the dentist regularly as well.

What To Expect At The First Appointment

As mentioned earlier, their initial appointment may not include a thorough cleaning and X-rays. Instead, it can be used to help them get familiar with their dentist and hygienist. This visit should happen around the age of six months to a year old, or when their first tooth appears. At the next appointment, cleanings and exams may begin. During the cleaning, plaque buildup can be removed, and their teeth may be polished. This helps to prevent harmful bacteria from sticking to their teeth and forming cavities. Your dentist may also use X-rays or intraoral cameras to get a closer look at the oral cavity. These images are important because they help track the growth and development of your little one’s smile.

When We Use Fluoride Treatments Or Sealants

Cavities are a common problem among younger patients, but there are ways to help prevent them. Fluoride treatments and sealants can be used in combination with a consistent oral hygiene routine to protect their teeth from dental decay. Fluoride can be applied to strengthen your tooth’s enamel to prevent cavities from wearing it down. Sealants are thin layers of acrylic that are often applied to the molars. These help prevent food particles from getting stuck in the grooves of these teeth and turning into cavities. If a cavity does form, dental fillings can be used to restore the area.

Call Our Team Today

Coming in twice a year is a helpful way to prevent many common dental problems. To book your next visit, call  Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA at (515) 965-0230.