Parents should bring their child in for a first visit as soon as their first tooth begins to show, but many wonder why visits at this young age are necessary. The professionals at St. Cloud Family and Cosmetic Dentistry believe a happy smile is made before it is fully grown. The following benefits are the result of bringing children to the dentist by their first birthday:
Creating Feelings of Safety at the Dental Office
Parents and young patients alike often feel uncomfortable at the dentist. This is typically due to a poor first visit. After negative experiences, it doesn’t take long for anyone to see the dentist as intimidating, instead if helpful. The best way to ensure children feel safe and comfortable at the dentist is to make an appointment before issues develop or when required treatment is not extensive.
Children that see the dentist routinely are more comfortable than those that only come in when they have health problems. With a visit every six months, dentists can prevent decay or catch it when only a filling is needed and reinforce good hygiene habits with education. This also allows children to build trust, which makes visits are much easier for parents, kids, and the dental professional.
Achieving Good Oral Health
Oral health plays a key role in our overall health, and this is especially true for children. Good nutrition and daily hygiene will go a long way in supporting their general wellbeing and prevent health concerns from becoming severe. Brushing should begin as soon as teeth emerge, and flossing can be incorporated when they have several teeth in a row. It may be a challenge for kids to manage these habits on their own, so be sure to brush and floss with them to help actively protect their smile.
Protecting their Confidence in the Long-Term
A beautiful smile is easily maintained with proper hygiene and dental visits, and teaching children to care for their teeth helps avoid many dental problems later on. Ideally, a dentist should not have to provide restorative care, such as crowns and bridges, for children or teenagers, dental emergencies aside. Children should be caring for their smile diligently so every appointment is a minor checkup and cleaning. This allows children to feel great about the way their smiles look as they get older.
Contact Dr. Alan Heap and Dr. Jared Nestle for Children’s Dental Care
Our kind dentists take the time to make children comfortable and provide the care they need. For an appointment at our St. Cloud practice, call today!