Watching your child’s first teeth erupt is an exciting milestone. Once the initial teeth come in, it’s not long before the rest follow. Parents are responsible for protecting their child’s teeth from cavities and other damage. Children’s Dentistry in Broken Arrow OK offers several treatments to keep your child’s mouth as healthy as possible.
Annual Exams
Before a child’s second birthday, they should visit a local dentist for their first annual exam. Although baby teeth eventually fall out, it’s important to keep them healthy while they are still intact. Young children are prone to the same dental problems as adults, including decay and gum disease.
During an annual exam, the dentist should examine all of your childhood’s teeth. As the child gets older, x-rays may be used to look for hidden cavities. If a problem is found during this yearly appointment, the dentist will offer a treatment plan to address it.
Orthodontics
As your child gets older, the dentist may become more concerned about the alignment of their smile. If the teeth are crowed or crooked, it may cause problems with your child’s bite. Some patients even develop speech impediments due to misaligned teeth.
Orthodontic procedures are very common with children, especially teenagers. A dentist that provides Childrens Dentistry in Broken Arrow OK will recommend a treatment plan for your child. Common orthodontic treatments include braces, tooth extraction and dental appliances.
Preventative Care
Of course, the best way to keep your child’s smile healthy and white is by preventing a problem in the first place. Dentists have a variety of treatments designed to do just this. If your child plays sports, for example, your dentist may create a special mouth guard to protect their teeth during the game.
Cavities can also be prevented with in-office procedures. Fluoride treatments are commonly used to help harden tooth enamel. Sealants may also be applied to prevent bacteria from causing decay. Both of these treatments are very popular with younger patients.
Children have their own dental needs. Baby teeth should be protected, and it’s important to teach your child about the importance of proper oral hygiene while they are still young. Visit Tulsakidsdental.com to find out how you can make sure your child’s smile always looks its best.
