When should I take my child to the Lexington pediatric dentist for the first time? Many parents struggle to determine how much dental care their children require. They understand the importance of cavity prevention, but they aren’t always sure how to go about it. Here are some pointers and recommendations.
What Age Should Children Begin Brushing Their Teeth?
Dental hygiene begins even before a child’s first tooth shows. It doesn’t mean the teeth aren’t there just because you can’t see them. Teeth begin to develop throughout the second trimester of pregnancy. Your kid gets 20 primary teeth at birth, with some of them fully grown in the jaw.
When Should Your Child Visit a Dentist in Lexington NC?
Children should see a pediatric dentist in Lexington NC by their first birthday, according to the American Dental Association. The Lexington pediatric dentist will explain correct brushing and flossing procedures as well as do a modified exam while your infant sits on your lap during this initial visit.
These checkups can help identify problems early on and help children become accustomed to coming to the dentist, reducing their fear of attending as they get older.
How Can You Protect Your Child’s teeth?
When bacteria and food left on the teeth after eating are not cleaned away, cavities develop. Acid builds up on a tooth’s enamel, weakening it until a hole — or cavity — appears.
Good oral habits should be instilled in children from a young age. Teach your children to wash their teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day and floss on a regular basis.
Here’s how to avoid cavities:
- Good oral habits should be instilled in children from a young age. Teach children to clean their teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day.
- Make sure you’re getting enough fluoride. Fluoride hardens the enamel, making it more difficult for acid to penetrate.
- Some foods should be limited or avoided. Cavities are caused by sugary foods, liquids, and sweets (particularly sticky gummy candies, gummy vitamins, or fruit leather or “roll-ups”).
Mouthguards / Dental guards in Lexington, NC:
Mouthguards, also known as mouth protectors, cushion the impact of a hit to the face, reducing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to the lips, tongue, cheeks, and jaw. They usually cover the upper teeth and provide excellent protection for the tongue, lips, and cheek lining.
Dr. Thomas Long, a private practice dentist and team dentist for the Carolina Hurricanes professional hockey club, says, “Your front teeth receive the brunt of trauma because they stick out more.” “Because your bottom teeth are further back, they are a little more protected.”
Click on the link here to find out if your child needs a night guard? Also click on the link here to find out the differences between Night guards and mouth guards