Has your child been to the dentist yet? If they have grown in their first tooth, these visits can begin. Regular dentist appointments and a consistent at-home oral hygiene routine can help create good habits that can last a lifetime. As your child grows up, we can also help guide you through the process of orthodontic care. Your Shirley Orthodontics and Pediatrics dental team is here today to explain the importance of bringing your kids in for a visit.
Their Very First Visit
During your child’s first visit, our primary goal is to help them feel comfortable with our team. We will perform a cleaning and examination to assess where their oral health is. The first step of the appointment is a dental cleaning. This helps remove plaque buildup and check for visual concerns that may arise. Then, a thorough examination can be done with X-rays to help get a closer look at their smiles. This will help us create an effective treatment plan for the next visit. Your kid can come in for their first visit around one year old, or by the time their first tooth grows in. Then, consistent visits can begin when they enter the toddler stages. Biannual dental visits should continue throughout their entire life, starting at childhood.
If They Need Extra Treatments
A common dental problem that younger patients may face is cavities. This may be due to eating more sugary snacks and learning how to take care of their own smiles. It can be difficult for your little one to thoroughly brush on their own. If their hygienist notices that some areas are being missed during their hygiene routine, they can help give tips on how to improve this. Your dentist may also recommend extra treatments, such as fluoride or sealants, to add extra protection from tooth decay. Fluoride is a mineral that can help remineralize their enamel and guard against cavities. Sealants are a thin layer that can be applied to areas like the back molar to protect against decay.
Starting Orthodontic Treatment
Our team is here for your child as they continue to grow up. Around the age of seven years old, they can come in for their first orthodontic consultation. While this may seem young, this is a great age to begin phase one treatment and ensure their jaw is growing properly before beginning braces. During phase one treatment, steps such as retainers or space maintainers may be used to help guide the growth of their jaw and make sure their teeth are growing correctly. Then, when they are ready, braces can be applied to help gradually align their teeth into proper alignment.
Schedule Their Appointment Today
To schedule your child’s first appointment, call Shirley Orthodontics and Pediatrics at 631.399.1600.
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