There is a common fear of going to the dentist, but it is also highly irrational. However, for children, this fear creates a level of anxiety that is uncomfortable and even disruptive to their daily lives. Therefore, the recommendation that children should see a dentist every six months can create a level of discomfort in the home, which can motivate some parents to avoid the routine visits altogether, opting instead for the schedule-when-needed approach. Don’t go down that path. There are at least five reasons why taking your child to a Morrisville, North Carolina dentist every six months is a great idea.
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Oral Exams
First, tooth decay is one of the most common and chronic diseases facing American children, and it is preventable. However, preventative care means routine visits to the dentist office. During these visits, the dentist in Morrisville may take dental x-rays and inspect your child’s baby teeth for signs of decay and gum disease, offering a treatment plan if anything is discovered.
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Cleanings
While some parents may feel that having a daily brushing routine is enough to ensure their children have and maintain a healthy smile, brushing can only accomplish so much. Unfortunately, while brushing and flossing are excellent ways to remove plaque, professional cleanings are required to remove hardened plaque or tartar along the gum line and between teeth.
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Sealants
When parents choose to avoid routine dental visits to reduce their child’s anxiety, they may risk there child’s permanent teeth. For instance, it is not uncommon for molars to develop with deep grooves or pits that are playgrounds for food particles and bacteria. A Morrisville dentist will notice these areas apply sealants, which prevent particles from getting trapped in the tooth and eroding the enamel.
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Healthy Habits and Dietary Guidance
Beyond a doctor for your child’s teeth, a Morrisville dentist is also an advocate for their oral health. These professionals can give you guidance on your child’s diet and even explain the importance of these dietary decisions to your child in a way that they will understand. One common practice most dentist urge against is allowing your child to take milk or juice to bed. While these items may stress natural sugars, each can lead to tooth decay if consumed too often. Therefore, most dentists recommend only allowing these drinks during meals.
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Comfort
Last, parents should bring their kids to the dentist once every six months to increase their comfort level. It is good for your child to associate dental exams with positive experiences, and the only way to form those experiences is through exposure.
Has your child had their first dental appointment? If not, contact a dentist Morrisville families trust from Alliance Dentistry and discuss how to make the process fun and exciting instead of fearful.