Why Kids Need Six Month Checkups
When was the last time you contacted our team to schedule your child’s dental exam? Starting at around age two, kids need to begin seeing us for checkups and cleanings every six months! In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX, pediatric dentist talks about the importance of routine checkups and cleanings for kids.
Kids Need Dental Exams
When should kids start seeing the dentist? The first visit, which is a simple knee-to-knee exam, should take place after the arrival of the first baby tooth, which usually happens at around age one. Once your child is two, we recommend a visit for a checkup and cleaning every six months. With these visits, we can monitor the smile as it grows, and catch issues early, such as tooth decay or even concerns with the eruption/loss of your child’s baby teeth, which can impact alignment issues. These visits also help your little ones get used to seeing the dentist and gain a better understanding of their oral health, which fights dental anxiety and helps them become more likely to continue caring for their smiles on their own as adults.
The Cleaning Process
In the same sitting, we will also clean the teeth. With a dental cleaning, our team will thoroughly remove all plaque and tartar from the teeth with an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool. The process only takes a few minutes and enables our team to lower the risk of tooth decay, gingivitis, bad breath, and teeth stains.
Safeguarding Teeth in Between These Visits
Our team will also take time to talk to your kids about caring for their smiles in between these office visits. Good oral hygiene habits at home are crucial for keeping smiles strong and healthy. Your children should brush for two minutes in the morning and then do so again before going to bed. Each time, use a soft-bristled and age-appropriate toothbrush. We also suggest fluoride toothpaste to keep enamel strong. Children three and younger should use a rice sized amount, and kids over the age of three need a pea sized blot. Children also need to floss every evening before they brush the second time, as this removes what a toothbrush alone cannot.
If you have any questions about our dental exams, or if you would like to schedule one for your child, then contact our team today to learn more. We want to help you children smile with confidence and enjoy their best possible smile.
Ready to Schedule Your Child’s Next Dental Exam?
Our team is ready to offer treatment to keep little smiles healthy and strong for years to come. Call the team at Pediatric Dental Care at Casa Linda in Dallas, TX, today at (214) 321-4880.
filed under: Children's Dental Services