Did you know that kids are at a high risk for cavities before the age of 10? (Okay, if you’ve ever seen kids devour candy, that probably isn’t surprising!) At first, the dentist can seem scary, especially for toddlers, but regular dental cleanings with a family dentist will help make kids more comfortable with the strange instruments and loud noises.
Even if you’re covering the basics at home – brushing every day, flossing every day, eating healthy, avoiding too much sugar – kids still need as many teeth cleanings as adults do! These are a few of the many, many reasons why it’s important for kids to see the dentist every six months.
First Dental Visit for Teeth Cleaning
When should kids have their teeth examined for the first time? It’s recommended that kids see a dentist by their first birthday, but don’t worry, the first few visits will be pretty simple. The dentist will clean and polish teeth, of course, and demonstrate how to use the suction straw (which is weird when you think about it). Then, it’s time to pick a goodie as a reward!
Twice-yearly dental visits are also important because they help establish healthy habits at home. Starting with that first dental visit, the dentist will show kids how to brush properly and explain how to prevent cavities.
Kids Learn How to Brush and Floss
Going to the dentist regularly is a healthy habit that helps develop other healthy habits. Kids can receive personalized instruction from the dentist for tips on the best ways to take care of teeth and gums with proper brushing and flossing technique. Even adult patients need to be reminded about proper oral hygiene from time to time, so these opportunities are super valuable for kids!
The dentist is also there to help parents, too! It can be a real struggle to clean your child’s teeth when they don’t feel like it, and flossing can be an even greater challenge, so don’t hesitate to ask for some tips about caring for your child’s teeth at home.
“Do I Need Braces?”
Most kids get braces between the ages of 10 and 14, but often times it is better to start earlier. Dr. McLaughlin has undergone many hours of advanced orthodontic training as well as growth and development education. We have often found that by helping children grow to their genetic potential, we can eliminate the need for removing permanent teeth and create beautiful, healthy smiles.
If you’re looking for a family dentist, talk to Dr. McLaughlin and the team at Dental Touch Associates in Cedar Rapids. Nothing compares to seeing a patient look at their new smile for the first time!