Our Dental hygienist Mel, explains brushing techniques for your children as they do have limited dexterity.
It is very important for children to have a proper brushing and flossing routine ti ensure healthy teeth for life.
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Emergency Dental Care In Calgary
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It is generally recommended that a child be seen by a dentist by the age of 1 or within 6 months after his or her first tooth comes in. at a young age is the best way to prevent problems such as tooth decay, and can help parents learn how to clean their child’s teeth and identify his or her fluoride needs. After all, decay can occur as soon as teeth appear. Bringing your child to the dentist early often leads to a lifetime of good oral care habits and acclimates your child to the dental office, thereby reducing anxiety and fear, which will make for plenty of stress-free visits in the future.
What will happen in the first visit?
Many first visits are nothing more than introductory icebreakers to acquaint your child with the dentist and the practice. Short, successive visits are meant to build the child’s trust in the dentist and the dental office, and can prove invaluable if your child needs to be treated later for any dental problem.
If the child is compliant, the first session often lasts between 15 and 30 minutes and may include the following, depending on age:
A gentle but thorough examination of the teeth, jaw, bite, gums and oral tissues to monitor growth and development and observe any problem areas
If indicated, a gentle cleaning, which includes polishing teeth and removing any plaque, tartar buildup or stains
X-rays
A demonstration on proper home cleaning
Assessment of the need for fluoride
Going to the dentist starts long before your child’s first appointment. If you have hesitation about going to the dentist, he/she will sense this and be apprehensive as well. Believe it or not, some children actually look forward to going to the dentist, but this takes preparation and teamwork to make this happen.
You can prepare your kids by reading books about visiting the dentist. Books explain why we need to visit the dentist and what happens at the dental clinic, from arrival to the waiting room to the equipment used and what the dentist will do. One of the main reasons children might fear the dentist is the unknown – if they have an idea of what to expect it makes it easier for them. Secondly, be a positive role model. Visit the dentist regularly yourself and brush your teeth with them.
Children may have any number of dental health problems over the years. For instance, they may require braces to help with straightening their teeth. They could need to have fillings put in to prevent worsening of cavities and further damage to their teeth. Very young children will need to be taught good oral hygiene practices, and the dentist’s office is the perfect place to reinforce what they are learning at home.
