Did you know your little one should have their first dentist appointment by the time they develop their first tooth? These early visits are essential to getting your child comfortable with the dentist. At Pacific Hills Dental in Omaha, Nebraska, we offer compassionate care for your entire family, including kids. In today’s blog, learn how these appointments keep your little one’s smile in good health.
Why Preventive Care Is Important
There are several reasons why starting dental checkups young is important. These visits track the development of your little one’s growing teeth, monitor for cavities, and help build long-lasting habits. Around the age of one, your child’s first pearly whites should begin growing. This is the perfect time to take them to the dentist. This appointment is different than a checkup and cleaning. Instead of performing X-rays and checking for cavities, this appointment is used to get your little one comfortable with the dentist. Then, around the age of three, regular dental checkups can begin.
Taking Care At Home And During Appointments
Oral hygiene practice starts at home. Even before your little one grows in their primary dentition, you should make it a habit to keep their gums clean. When the teeth do develop, brush their teeth with a soft-bristled brush to prevent cavities and other problems. Around three years old, you can supervise your child as they learn to do their oral hygiene routine. It is not uncommon for your toddler to dislike this process, so to make it more enjoyable, you can use different flavored toothpaste or turn the activity into a game.
At their twice-yearly checkups, the dental team will ensure that your little one is doing a thorough job at brushing and flossing. If we notice any missed areas, we can offer tips for better care. During their appointment, we may also take X-rays along with performing a cleaning. Professional dental cleanings can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, as well as leave your smile feeling clean.
If Your Child Develops A Cavity
Tooth decay is common among children, so if your little one develops a cavity, you don’t need to stress. To treat cavities, we will remove the damaged area and fill the decayed tooth with composite resin. Fillings prevent decay from progressing and blends in with their smile. For an extra layer of support, we can also apply sealants to their molars. We use these teeth to help chew food, and it can be easy for food to be stuck there. To prevent cavities, sealants can be applied as an extra layer. We also offer fluoride, which can re-mineralize the enamel, thus preventing tooth decay.
Schedule Their First Appointment Today
If your child has grown in their first tooth, it is time for their first checkup. To schedule a visit, call Pacific Hills Dental in Omaha, NE, today at (402)330-2243.
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