Just as young people learn their ABCs at a young age, they also learn dental care habits very early in life. It’s estimated that 42 percent of children ages 2-11 have had dental caries (cavities) and that is often because of eating too much candy, poor brushing habits and not enough visits to the dentist. The staff at The Dental Dimensions in South San Jose, CA specializes in pediatric dentistry and can help you care for your child’s smile to avoid future dental problems.
Pediatric Dentistry
The branch of dental science that specifically deals with children under the age of 18 is called pediatric dentistry. It deals with everything from caring for the mouth when babies are teething to helping young teens straighten their smiles with braces. The goal of pediatric dentistry is to prevent dental problems in children, resolve existing issues and also to teach young people how to develop and maintain good dental habits throughout their lives.
Caring for Your Child’s Smile
The earlier a child learns how to care for his or her smile, the better for the child’s future dental health. Here are a few important tips for how to best care for your child’s smile:
- Brush your teeth with the child in the morning and at night—children learn most reliably by doing and by watching you.
- Teach children the importance of flossing and how to do it properly.
- Avoid sharing spoons with children as this can pass bad bacteria to their mouths.
- Wean young children off of pacifiers as soon as possible.
- Feed children a healthy diet that’s rich in calcium, phosphorus, protein, fruits, vegetables and water.
Protecting Your Child’s Teeth
One of the most important ways that you can care for your child’s smile is to keep up with regular dental cleaning appointments. The pediatric dentistry staff at The Dental Dimensions in South San Jose will help make every visit as pleasant an experience as possible. If your child is prone to cavities, talk to your dentist about dental sealants.
Good Dental Care Starts Young
The best way to help your child maintain good-looking, healthy teeth and gums is to get him or her familiar with the family dentist. Call The Dental Dimensions in South San Jose, CA, an office that specializes in pediatric dentistry, at (408) 225-6815 to request an appointment today.
