Your
pediatric dentist practices preventive dentistry.
Q:
Why is preventive dentistry important?
A:
Preventive dentistry means a healthy smile for your child. Children
with healthy mouths chew more easily and gain more nutrients from
the foods they eat. They learn to speak more quickly and clearly.
They have a better chance of general health, because disease in
the mouth can endanger the rest of the body. A healthy mouth is
more attractive, giving children confidence in their appearance.
Finally, preventive dentistry means less extensive, and less expensive,
treatment for your child.
Q: When should preventive dentistry
start?
A:
Preventive dentistry begins with the first tooth. The first dental
visit should be when the child is comfortable with the process
and at least the first tooth has erupted. The earlier the dental
visit, the better the chance of preventing dental disease and
helping your child belong to the cavity-free generation.
Q:
What role do parents play in prevention?
A:
After evaluating your child's dental health, your pediatric dentist
will design a personalized program of home care for your child.
This program will include brushing and flossing instructions,
diet counseling, and if necessary, fluoride recommendations. By
following these directions, you can help give your child a lifetime
of healthy habits.
Q:
How do pediatric dentists help prevent dental problems?
A: Tooth cleaning and polishing and fluoride treatments are all
part of your child's prevention program. But there's much more.
For example, your pediatric dentist can apply sealants to protect
your child from tooth decay, help you select a mouth guard to
prevent sports injuries to the face and teeth, and provide early
diagnosis and care of orthodontic problems. Your pediatric dentist
is uniquely trained to develop a combination of office and home
preventive care to insure your child a happy smile.
