It’s important to teach kids about proper dental care at an early age. Introducing them to the dentist while they are still in the toddler stages is a great way to prevent dental fears. A dentist will also teach the child how to care for their own teeth at home. When choosing a dentist for the entire family, look for one who has a lot of experience in treating patients of all ages. A local Family Dentist in Oyster Bay NY will help keep all of the smiles in the household healthy and bright.
Most dentists recommend scheduling a child’s first dental exam shortly after their baby teeth begin to erupt. Some parents choose to wait longer, but every child should be examined by a dentist by the time they are two years old. During this exam, a Family Dentist in Oyster Bay NY will check to make sure all of the toddler’s teeth are coming in correctly. They will also take note of any decay or discoloration. Decay is common with young children, especially those who are bottle fed. Taking are of decay in the early stages may help to prevent painful cavities and toothaches down the road.
Once a child has most of their permanent teeth, usually during their teenage years, it’s time to have Locust Valley Dental Group evaluate the child’s bite. If the dentist notes particular issues with the teen’s bite, tooth alignment, or spacing, they may recommend a specific procedure to correct it. Many teenagers benefit from orthodontics, including braces. Having a straight smile is for more than just aesthetic appeal. Crooked, unaligned teeth may actually lead to tooth damage or pain. Correcting these problems during the teenage years may prevent other tooth issues as the patient continues to grow.
Every parent should be proactive in the oral health of their children. Make sure to schedule regular exams once their baby teeth begin to erupt. Instilling the value of proper dental care will make the child more likely to continue with regular dental exams when they become an adult. To see more procedures offered by a local dentist, be sure to visit the website.