Parents may think that it’s not as important for their children to visit the dentist every six months like they do, but that’s simply wrong. In fact, it may even be more important for pediatric patients to get professional exams and cleanings at least twice a year, as children are more likely to develop cavities and may encounter a number of developmental problems that can affect their oral health.
When a dentist is examining your teeth every six months, it is easier to identify problems like cavities or gum disease in their earliest stages, when they can be treated relatively easily. For example, it’s preferable to restore a small cavity rather than to place a crown or extract a tooth, even a primary tooth.
Additionally, having a hygienist clean your child’s teeth every six months helps to remove any plaque and tartar that have accumulated despite your child’s best efforts at brushing and flossing. This is particularly important for children who may not yet have mastered the motor skills necessary to brush and floss effectively. Furthermore, the hygienists can also use these visits as opportunities to check in with your child to provide education on the proper oral hygiene techniques.
Professional providers can also regularly monitor your child for signs that might warrant an orthodontic intervention, which can also be tremendously valuable when provided early.
It’s important to present these visits to the dentist as routine and ordinary. If you have some dental anxiety or fear yourself, do not convey this to your child, as it may make him or her unnecessarily fearful of the process, as well.
Your child does need to have dental exams and professional cleanings at least twice a year in order to maintain a healthy smile as well as establish a regimen of good oral hygiene care both at home and from professionals. When they get into the habit of semi-annual visits at a young age, hopefully that will carry through into adulthood.
Contact us at one of our convenient locations at Dental Depot to schedule an appointment!