The Importance Of Dentistry For Children

During the first six months of life, children will begin to develop their baby teeth and by the age of 6 or 7 years, they will start to lose their first set of teeth.  Once a child loses their first set of teeth, they will eventually be replaced by secondary, permanent teeth.

Choosing the Right Pediatric Dentist

Without the right dentist, children face the possibility of developing oral decay and disease that can cause a lifetime of pain and complications. Early childhood dental care is incredibly important because the habits your children from now will shape how they take care of their teeth in the future.

The Particulars of Pediatric Dentistry

Parental involvement in kids' oral health helps prevent tooth decay--the number one chronic health problem in American children. The staff at TLC Family Dentistry teaches kids and parents that mom and dad must brush toddlers' teeth for them and supervise kids at least up to the age of 8. Twice daily brushing with a soft-bristled brush and a small amount of fluoride toothpaste is the rule, and parents must realize that young children do not have the dexterity to brush and floss by themselves.

We also stress nutritious, low-sugar diets and drinking plenty of water to wash tooth surfaces and promote production of saliva. Saliva keeps teeth and gums clean--important in between meals and during the night.

Additionally, the pediatric dentist often recommends fluoride treatments and plastic sealants for young teeth--particularly molars that have intricately-grooved chewing surfaces. These simple "painted-on" dental materials quickly and comfortably provide protection against decay, and for adults, fluoride reduces dental sensitivity.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises that any decay found in children's teeth be treated. The health and development of baby teeth impacts how their adult teeth look, function and erupt into the mouth. Furthermore, it's wise for children to receive a complete orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early orthodontic treatment wards off problems from crooked teeth later on in life--decay, gum disease and self-image issues specifically. Early intervention takes advantage of the developing jaw, making treatment easier and less complex than older teen or adult treatment.

What Makes Our Office Right For Your Children:

At TLC Family Dentistry, we strive to provide your child with optimal dental health care so that he or she can maintain a healthy, glowing smile for a lifetime. We offer an array of treatment options, as well as expertise and training to properly care for your child. We want to ensure that both you and your children feel comfortable at our office for each and every visit. Going to the dentist should be fun, schedule an appointment  today to ensure your child’s smile is healthy for a lifetime.

Looking for more information on dentistry for children from TLC Family Dentistry?
Call our Lee's Summit, MO office at (816) 537-6161 to learn more