Similar to how we create a balance between their nutrition, exercise, recreational activities, and holidays, we also need to equally prioritise their dental hygiene. Unlike the rest, dental hygiene is often a huge problem area for most parents. Specialist dentists for children practice paediatric dentistry in NSW, which deals with dental issues for children from infancy through adolescence. A child’s smile, as cheerful as it seems, represents a significant part of their well-being, growth, and self-esteem. Read on to discover the crucial role of paediatric dentistry for your child’s wellbeing.
Developing Good Practices at A Younger Age
Preventive oral-care practices should commence with the first visible tooth, usually after the baby turns six months old. Paediatric dentists, as per the American Academy of Paediatric Dentistry Association (AAPD), recommend that children at least be registered by the time they turn one, or six months after their first visible tooth. Such appointments should be regarded as educational opportunities because parents get to learn various helpful guidelines including knowing good oral hygiene, preventive measures for most troubles, and how to oversee their children’s oral development.
By assisting them with their first dentist visit as a child, you prepare them for what to expect in the future and eliminate any fear they might have about coming to the office. Regular visits also allow the dentist to catch any potential issues, like cavities and misaligned teeth, before they become more serious problems.
Avoiding Tooth Decay and Cavities
Cavities and tooth decay are some of the most common diseases suffered by children around the world. A paediatric dentist in NSW can spot indicators of decay you may not notice at home. They can also administer preventive measures like fluoride treatments and dental sealants to help protect your child from potential cavities.
Fluoride strengthens the teeth enamel, and sealants are thin layers that cover the chewing surfaces of teeth at the back, where most cavities are formed. These preventive methods will ensure that your child’s teeth remain healthy and do not suffer from decay for several years.
Encouraging Development and Healthy Growth
As children grow, their mouths and jaws develop, so Australia’s paediatric dentistry is crucial. A paediatric dentist monitors the growth of teeth and jaws and spots crowding, misalignment, or bite problems. They proactively position the teeth to reduce complex orthodontic care during adolescence.
Visiting the paediatric dentist frequently ensures that a child’s permanent teeth come in properly aligned, thus reducing the chances of overbite or underbites that would need braces in the future.
Instilling Good Behaviour
Paediatric dentists are not only highly skilled in treatment but preventative care as well, aiding in teaching both children and parents. For instance, they can help children learn how to appropriately brush and floss, thus transforming dental care into an enjoyable learning experience. By instilling good habits early on, kids learn to appreciate caring for their teeth.
Paediatric dentists empower families by providing the necessary tips and tricks to help promote dental hygiene, such as selecting an appropriate toothbrush and toothpaste, and concocting imaginative oral hygiene routines that are guaranteed to make children excited. Sugary snacks and drinks tend to cause cavities and tooth decay, thus they would advise on dietary choices.
Dealing With Anxiety and Fear around Dental Care
For some children, a trip to the dentist could be distressing. However, paediatric dentists are specially trained to handle younger patients. Their clinics have a child-friendly and comforting atmosphere, with toys, colourful décor, and a relaxing ambiance. Furthermore, paediatric dentists ensure that they incorporate gentle techniques and use language that is comforting to children’s ears.
Helping kids build a good relationship with the dentist from an early age means that children are able to avoid dental stress that would carry on to their adult years. Besides, children are likely to develop a good sense of caring for their oral health and will make it part of their habits for many years.
