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If you want to maintain good oral health, you need to combine good habits, such as proper brushing and flossing, with regular dental checkups. This dental care is what you call preventive dentistry, and it is crucial not only for adults but also for children. After all, proper care for teeth starts in early childhood and extends throughout one's life.
Unfortunately, some parents immediately assume that their kid's teeth condition is okay just because they are young. However, the truth is that they also experience oral health issues and may even be more prone to cavities due to the amount of sugar in their diet.
If you want to know the preventive dentistry treatments that your kids can take advantage of for better oral health, here is a list for your reference:
1. Teeth cleaning
Adults and children need to have their teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year. Teeth cleaning is the process that gets rid of one's plaque and tartar. Sometimes, brushing and flossing are not enough to remove these tough teeth problems.
Not all adults know how to brush or floss their teeth properly, and kids usually have it worse, making them more prone to plaque buildup. With the help of a dentist's specialized tools, eliminating plaque will be easier. Without plaque, kids have fewer chances of getting cavities.
2. Dental sealants
If you want your kids to minimize their chances of getting childhood cavities, a dental sealant is a treatment you should consider. A dental sealant is a translucent, plastic-like material that a dentist can easily spread on your child's teeth. This sealant remains on the chewing surfaces of your kid's teeth to stop any cavities from forming and spreading. The sealant will only take about two minutes per tooth for it to harden in place, and your child will not even feel a difference in their bite.
One requirement before getting this treatment is deep ridges. If your kid's teeth ridges are not deep enough, the sealant will not stay in place. You would not want a loose sealant on your child's teeth. Instead of protecting their teeth, a loose sealant can trap plaque, making cavities more likely.
3. Fluoride treatment
Fluoride increases your teeth's strength. It works by boosting your teeth's enamel, making it more resistant to acid and bacteria that cause tooth decay. If your kids have healthier teeth, there is a lower chance for them to experience tooth decay.
4. Mouthguards
If your kid plays a sport, a mouthguard can protect their teeth and gums from physical contact during a game. These protective devices are specially made to fit the shape of your child's mouth. Make sure to get your active kids this protection to prevent any teeth-related injuries.
5. Space maintainers
If your child loses a tooth, they can use a space maintainer to prevent their teeth from moving until the permanent tooth emerges. Space maintainers are made from plastic or metal. They are comfortable to wear and customized according to the nuances of your child's mouth. If you are hesitant about letting your child use one, think of it as a more affordable and faster solution than attempting to move teeth back to their proper positions with braces.
Conclusion
Unlike adults, kids have less control over what they eat and their daily dental routine, making them more prone to dental problems. Regular dental checkups and these preventive dentistry treatments can help lower the chances of dental issues.
Are you looking for a children's dentist in Ypsilanti? Visit us at the Dental House MI. We strive to make our clinic friendly and welcoming with caring staff and experienced dentists, perfect for your children's needs. We pride ourselves in giving gentle and responsible treatments in all aspects of dental care, and we also have various offers and discounts for different services. Book an appointment with us.
