Learning to Manage Your Dental Problems

Your Children And The Dentist

24 April 2019 by Charlotte Beck

Oral health is key from day one for your children. Instilling proper dental care habits early on will ensure that your children have healthy teeth for years to come. Unfortunately, dental decay during childhood is far more common than you may realize. Around 20 percent of children between the ages of 5 and 11 have at least one tooth with untreated dental decay. Cavities and other forms of tooth decay are preventable, but it does require effort on your part. Here's what you should know about taking your children to the dentist.

When To Start

Knowing when to start taking your child to the dentist is the first step to a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. It's recommended that you take your child to the dentist when their first tooth erupts or no later than their first birthday. After that, a dental checkup is recommended every six months. Your kid's dentist will be able to work with you to ensure that your child is forming healthy habits early on and that their teeth and gums are developing properly. They will also be able to spot any dental issues that may become more apparent as your child ages.

Cleanings Are A Must

While it can be tempting to skip teeth cleanings, it's imperative that your child receives them as needed. Even in baby teeth, cavities and dental decay can have a negative impact on the healthy development of your child's teeth and gums. Regular cleanings will remove plaque that regular brushing and flossing cannot. The cost of teeth cleaning varies, but typically it is covered by dental insurance. Without insurance, a teeth cleaning averages between $75 to $200 with an additional $100 to $300 tacked on if x-rays are needed.

Dental Sealants Work

Another thing that you may want to consider when it comes to your children's teeth are dental sealants. Sealants can be added to the teeth in order to act as a barrier to dental decay. They are incredibly effective and can reduce cavities in children by 60 percent for up to four years after they are applied. The cost of dental sealants typically ranges from $30 to $40 per tooth. As soon as your child's permanent teeth start to come in, sealants can be applied.

When it comes to your children and the dentist, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it's recommended that their first visit to the dentist be when their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday. Regular cleanings are a must and are typically recommended twice per year. You may also want to consider dental sealants as soon as your child's permanent teeth start to come in since they are very effective at preventing dental decay. Remember to follow these rules and find a professional kids dentist to help ensure the health of your children's teeth.

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