Our team offers a comforting approach to care for kids of all ages! Routine care helps children avoid issues like tooth decay and better understand their own oral health. In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO, dentist will talk about our approach to children’s dentistry, and when your kids need to begin dental care.
Checkups and Cleanings
Just like adults, kids need to undergo routine checkup and cleaning visits. The first exam should happen around age one, once the first baby tooth arrives. At age two, regular six month checkup and cleaning visits should happen. Just like we do for adults, we will use advanced digital technology to carefully examine the smile with advanced technology, identifying issues like tooth decay and gingivitis in the early stages, so we can treat them before they impact the smile. We also make sure baby teeth fall out as they should, and that permanent teeth erupt properly. The cleaning process helps fight cavities and other issues by removing all plaque and tartar from the teeth. While brushing and flossing at home is crucial, this doesn’t remove plaque and tartar that has formed, which is why even young kids need to have their teeth professionally cleaned twice a year.
Dental Sealants and Fluoride Treatments
Our team also offers unique preventive treatments to help lower the risk of cavities. During each checkup visit, we will apply a fluoride varnish to the outside of the teeth. The gel helps strengthen the outer enamel to prevent the onset of cavities, which is why fluoride is often added to a community’s drinking water. We also offer dental sealants. Kids often have difficulty reaching the rear teeth when they brush and floss due to their limited dexterity, which means cavities often form there. However, with dental sealants we apply a unique plastic coating to the teeth. This prevents food particles from becoming stuck on or between the teeth, and reduces the risk of a cavity. These last about 5 to 10 years in some cases, and wear away gently with time. We can always re-apply as needed.
If you have any questions about our approach to children’s dentistry, or if you would like to schedule your child’s next checkup and cleaning, then contact our team today to learn more. We want to help your little ones maintain their best smiles for many years to come!
Talk to Your Kansas City, MO, Dentist About Children’s Dentistry
If you have any questions about children’s dentistry or about what you can do to help protect your little one’s smile, then please contact your Kansa City, MO, dentist, Dr. Tabakh, by calling (816) 942-7669. We’re ready to help kids enjoy their best smiles!