When it comes to dental care as an adult most of us know what to do. Brushing and flossing are of course a necessity everyday, as is regular dental cleanings and checkups. Dental care for children is not all that different than dental care for adults. Good oral hygiene on a daily basis is a must as are regular dental checkups. However, it's important to note that there are a few ways in which dental health care for children differs from that for adults. Here are a few things that you should know when it comes to your child and dental care.
When to Start Going to the Dentist
The first thing that you need to know about your child's dental care is when it should start. Waiting too long to take them to their first dental checkup can lead to an enhanced risk of tooth decay. It's recommended that you take your child to their first dental checkup by the age of 1. After this first visit, dental cleanings and checkups are often recommended every six months. However, depending on your child's needs, more frequent visits to the dentist may be required.
Pediatric Dentists are an Option
Another thing that you should be aware of is that a pediatric dentist may be the best option for your child. While many family dentists are happy to take on children as patients there are dentists who work specifically with children. These dentists are referred to as pediatric dentists or children's dentists. They are able to provide dental care for your child from when their first tooth makes an appearance all the way through adolescence. A pediatric dentist can monitor the development of your child's teeth and identify potential problems early on.
Treatments to Protect Their Teeth
As children's teeth develop, preventing cavities is an absolute must. There are treatments available that can help protect developing teeth. Dental sealants and fluoride treatments can help prevent decay and lead to healthier teeth. Dental sealants are applied to the exterior of the tooth in order to act as a barrier to tooth decay. These sealants cost between $30 and $40 per tooth and can reduce cavities in children by up to 60 percent. Fluoride treatments can be done in-office and can prevent tooth decay. The average cost of fluoride treatments range from $20 to $50.
Dental care during childhood is very important. Children should have their first dental checkup by the age of 1. Pediatric dentists specialize in working with children and may be the right option for your child. You may also want to look into treatments such as dental sealants and fluoride treatments in order to protect your child's teeth.
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