Pediatric dentists specialize in providing dental treatment and advice to children and teenagers. This allows them to more easily and effectively address the unique needs of these age groups when it comes to oral health and hygiene.
The Importance of Good Early Experiences
With so many adults struggling with their own dental health or feeling beset with fear or anxiety at the prospect of even a regular checkup, it should be no surprise that good early experiences with dental health are important.
By ensuring that your child or teen has positive early experiences when it comes to their oral health, you give them the best chance at keeping a healthy smile for many years to come.
Building Their Oral Health Routine
Building the foundations for an effective and long-lasting oral health routine starts at home. You should encourage your child to brush, floss, and rinse with mouthwash. For younger children, you may need to help with brushing. As they get older, you can simply monitor them to ensure they’re brushing effectively as they become increasingly competent and independent.
During this time, a pediatric dentist will be able to identify issues that you may not be able to and provide the appropriate advice to remedy them. This will ensure that your child’s oral hygiene practices aren’t lacking in any areas as they move into adolescence and eventually into adulthood.
Addressing Orthodontic Issues Early
Pediatric dentists don’t just spot issues with oral hygiene, they can also identify bigger issues that may require more work to remedy. This can include misaligned teeth and malocclusions, otherwise known as bad bites.
Whilst they may be viewed as cosmetic issues, problems such as these can have a serious impact on a child or teenager. They can have a major impact on their confidence and self-esteem which can then go on to affect their social life and even their future career. They can also make it harder to keep their teeth and mouth clean, leading to further dental issues.
Not only does addressing these issues early prevent these problems from arising, but it also allows orthodontic treatment to be given at the time when it will be most effective and deliver the fastest results, making things easier and more comfortable for everyone.
Building Confidence With Appointments
Having regular checkups from a young age will build confidence and let your child see that going to the dentist isn’t something that they need to be afraid of. This is a confidence that will carry through into their adult life, making it easier for them to keep up with their appointments.
This is incredibly important as dental issues can arise at any point during life. Having a dentist notice them early makes them much easier to treat and can avoid a lot of unnecessary discomfort.
Why Choose a Pediatric Dental Specialist?
Although many dentists can in theory treat children, there are definite advantages to choosing a practitioner who specializes in pediatric dentistry.
Pediatric dentists are more aware of the issues that are common among children, but perhaps more importantly, they know how to communicate with younger patients and put them at ease. They are more able to put their advice into words a child can understand easily and are well prepared to deal with any worries or uncertainties they may have. This all makes for a smoother and more pleasant appointment for you and your child.
If you’re looking for a practice specializing in pediatric dentistry in Kansas City, contact us today for more information or to arrange an appointment.
