Establishing good dental habits early on in life will help ensure that your child has fewer dental problems later on. While many parents take the time to find a dependable and experienced pediatrician, many don’t consider the importance of finding a qualified pediatric dentist. Manchester CT pediatric dentists specialize in the dental development of infants, children and adolescents to ensure healthy teeth and gums. Many parents take their child to see the dentist for the first time at age 4 or 5; however, dental care should start much earlier. Learn the many reasons why it’s so important to have a pediatric dentist for your child.
How to Care for a Child’s Teeth
Dental care for children change at various times in their development. From birth until six months of age, gums should be cleaned with a wet cloth or soft infant toothbrush after feedings and before bed. From six to 12 months of age, bring your child to a pediatric dentist for an early consultation to allow your child to establish a relationship with the dentist. During this time, parents can also brush the child’s teeth with a soft toothbrush after feedings and before going to sleep. At 12 to 24 months, children can start using a pea-sized amount of children’s toothpaste to clean their teeth after eating. At age 2, they can learn to rinse and spit.
Reasons to Visit the Pediatric Dentist
Children are prone to oral diseases and tooth decay due to poor dental hygiene. Taking your child to see a pediatric dentist encourages better dental care and promotes a better understanding of the importance of caring for your teeth and gums. Children can be taught how to maintain good oral hygiene, the importance of brushing and flossing and the best techniques to get their teeth cleaned properly. Kids will also learn what foods can cause damage to their teeth, such as foods rich in starches and sugars. When you visit a pediatric dentist, your child can also have his teeth cleaned to remove any particles of food stuck in the teeth to prevent the buildup of bacteria and to ward off cavities.
Range of Children’s Dental Services
Children can undergo a range of dental services to help keep their teeth and gums healthy as they grow. Information on services can be found by asking your pediatric dentist. Pediatric dentists Manchester CT area typically provide fluoride treatments that make teeth stronger and more resistant to harmful chemicals, like acids. Children six years and older can also begin to use dental floss and mouthwash to keep bacteria in the mouth to a minimum.
