Why Bring In Your Child for Routine Dental Exams

All children are susceptible to dental caries or cavities. Several factors contribute to tooth decay. These include a diet high in sugar, increased levels of bacteria living in the mouth that cause plaque, and poor oral hygiene. The earlier your kid starts getting their regular dental checkup, the healthier their oral system will be throughout their lives. Here are some of the reasons why you should bring in your child for routine dental exams:

It Keeps Cavities From Forming 

One of the most common chronic diseases in children is cavities. If left untreated, these decayed areas of your kid’s teeth become holes. These tiny openings will not only cause pain and infection. But it can also lead to problems with eating and speaking. Besides, if your child’s milk teeth are lost too soon, it can lead to their adult teeth to come through crooked or misaligned. Fortunately, tooth cavities are preventable with routine dental exams.

It’s Crucial in Early Detection and Intervention

One of the objectives of regular dental visits is to find problems early on. Catching dental issues early on can stop and manage tooth decay. With prompt treatment, you can prevent oral diseases from getting worse. Besides, preventive care and early intervention usually cost a lot less than the orthodontic or cosmetic dentistry treatment your child might require later on.

It Helps Identify Issues That May Require Orthodontic Treatments 

With regular visits, the dentist can monitor how your kid’s adult teeth are developing. If needed, they will refer your child to an orthodontist for treatment. This way, you can ensure that they won’t need to have braces in the future. Genetics is one of the many reasons why a child may have an orthodontic problem. But some cases are preventable to some degree. For example, your dentist or orthodontist will be able to advise you on how to break your kid’s thumb-sucking habit. This may seem harmless. But if your kid still sucks their thumb by the time they turn one or two, this can have a detrimental impact on their teeth and speech.

It Encourages Good Oral Hygiene Practices 

Teaching your child about the value of oral health care should begin at an early age. It’s highly advisable to bring them into a dental clinic when they turn two years of age. The dentist will help them choose a toothbrush specifically designed for their soft gums. They will learn the amount of toothpaste to use and correct brushing motion. Proper coaching and follow through at home are essential. This way, your child will quickly and happily adopt good dental habits as part of their daily routine. Besides, routine dental exams can take the fear out of checkups.

It Teaches Your Child the Importance of Less Sugar Intake

Children are programmed to like the sweet stuff. It’s because the sweet taste fills their biological need to search out for energy-giving foods. It’s almost impossible to keep them from candies and chocolates. But by bringing your child to a dentist regularly, they will learn how a diet rich in sugar and starches can affect their teeth. Over time, they will reduce their sugar intake.

Regular visits to the dentist help prevent cavities and tooth decay. Schedule your child’s dental exam today with Dr. Rudell Gary S. Jacinto, DMD. Call our clinic now at (323) 405-9428 in Los Angeles, California, to make an appointment.