You are hypervigilant about scheduling your child’s doctor’s appointments, but when it comes to their oral health, you may wonder if you really need to schedule a dental cleaning. After all, aren’t children pretty resilient when it comes to dental health? And aren’t their baby teeth going to come out anyway? Actually, dental cleanings are a vital part of children’s dentistry from about the time of your child’s first birthday, and they can ensure better dental health for life.
Dr. Julie Glud provides dental cleanings for patients of all ages at Dental Care of Lombard. To learn more about the importance of dental cleanings or to schedule an appointment, contact our office today.
Why are dental cleanings so important?
Cavities develop when starches and sugars remain in the mouth. Bacteria feed off of these substances, forming a sticky film called plaque. Eventually, plaque will harden into stubborn tartar. Plaque and tartar erode the protective enamel on teeth, making way for acids and bacteria to access the softer tissue beneath. Over time, the bacteria and acids create small holes in the teeth, and the microbes can then move on to the dental nerves.
Children are quite susceptible to dental decay. In fact, over half of all children between the ages of 6 and 8 have developed at least one cavity. While it is true that children will eventually lose their baby teeth, cavities in these first teeth can still have devastating consequences. Untreated, the bacteria can cause significant discomfort. Children can also develop an abscess below the gums, and bacteria can spread to other parts of the body, leading to widespread infection. Furthermore, decay in baby teeth can also affect the permanent teeth beneath if the bacteria spread to those dental roots. And if your child loses a tooth prematurely, it can alter the alignment of his or her emerging adult teeth.
When should I schedule a dental cleaning?
In accordance with established medical guidelines, Dr. Glud recommends that children come in for their first dental visit around their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. At the first visit, she can evaluate your child’s dental development and look for any signs of concern. As your child grows, you should schedule a dental cleaning every six months, just as you would for yourself. At these biannual visits, your hygienist will eliminate the plaque and tartar that lead to cavities, setting the stage for lifelong dental wellness. When your child comes into our office, Dr. Glud can provide additional preventative services for children, such as sealants and fluoride treatments.
How else can I protect my child’s teeth?
Although routine cleanings are vital to your child’s dental health, there are other things you can do to help prevent dental decay. These include:
- Wiping your baby’s gums with a soft cloth after feeding (before any teeth come in)
- Not allowing your child to go to sleep with a bottle
- Brushing your baby’s teeth as soon as they appear
- Flossing as soon as your child has two teeth that touch
- Limiting sugary and starchy foods
Book Your Child’s Dental Cleaning
Your child’s smile lights up your world. Take steps to protect it by scheduling a dental cleaning at Dental Care of Lombard. Call 630-629-5700 to speak to a member of our team. We look forward to caring for you and your family!
