4 reasons why specialized dentistry for children is important
What if you could find a dental practice that encourages dentistry for children, and believes in teaching healthy dental habits for patients of all ages?
At Silverwood Dental, you will find just that. At our patient-centric dental practice, your comfort and oral health needs come first – including those of your little ones. Although it may seem at times impossible to combine “child-friendly” and “dental clinic” in the same sentence, when you arrive at our Saskatoon dental office you will find a compassionate and caring team, and fun activities to entertain your kids while their siblings are in the see the dentist.
We recommend bringing your child in for a dental exam by the age of three, unless there’s a dental issue that develops sooner. By taking your child to regular dental appointments, potential problems can be addressed early on to protect their vulnerable teeth. The dentist will also identify whether teeth are coming in as they should.
Below are some reasons that highlight why dentistry for children is important.
Cavity prevention
Due to the ongoing development of your child’s teeth, they are more susceptible to tooth decay. This is partially a result of soft enamel, which makes teeth more vulnerable to the sugars in the foods and beverages consumed. Cow’s milk, mother’s milk, and fruit juices all contain sugar. If your child goes to bed with a bottle or continually drinks from a sippy cup of fruit juice, they are at risk of encountering cavities. Through routine dental exams, the dentist can keep an eye on your child’s primary teeth.
The health of your child’s primary teeth can have either a positive or negative effect on permanent teeth. If the dentist starts to notice enamel demineralization, he may recommend dental sealants. These plastic coatings are designed to fit seamlessly over teeth to protect them from food and plaque build-up. At your child’s professional cleaning, the hygienist may also recommend fluoride treatment, a mouth rinse used to strengthen growing teeth.
Proper dental hygiene
Teaching proper dental hygiene habits early is crucial to keeping your child’s teeth healthy. At your visit with us, one of our dentists or friendly hygienists will instruct you and the family on the proper way to brush and floss teeth, the best type of toothbrush to use, and ways you can make oral hygiene more fun for both you and your kids. It is our job to make dental hygiene as easy and stress-free as possible for both parent and child. Children who practice good dental hygiene at a young age are more likely to preserve their teeth and maintain good habits throughout their teenage and adult years.
Correcting bite disorders and dental misalignment
At your child’s dental examination, digital x-rays will be performed to keep an eye on teeth that are above the gum line, and teeth that are still waiting to erupt. With this digital dental technology, our dentists are able to determine teeth growth patterns, and whether orthodontic treatment may be necessary. Correcting bite disorders and dental misalignment while the jaw is still developing can help your child enjoy straighter teeth as an adult, as well as lower their risk of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder. This condition is caused by inflammation and irritation in the hinge joints that connect your lower and upper jaw, and can cause chronic pain, teeth grinding, and other uncomfortable side effects.
Reducing dental anxiety
As per the Canadian Dental Association, dental anxiety affects roughly 10 to 20 percent of the Canadian population. The level of fear differs amongst patients, but at it’s most severe, dental anxiety can keep patients from visiting the dentist altogether, leading to all sorts of health problems. Children who start visiting the dentist at a young age and have a good rapport with their dentist may be less likely to develop dental anxiety as adults. As adults, we should try to be conscious of how we refer to the dentist in front of children – they’re little ears are always listening, and you never know how what you say may affect their attitude towards the dentist.
To help keep your child’s anxiety levels low, we provide child-friendly entertainment in our waiting room, stocked with colouring books and toys. You will also have the opportunity to sit with them during their dental exam, where the dentist will take the time to explain the details of the exam and answer all questions until you and your child feel comfortable and relaxed.
Book an appointment for your kids at Silverwood Dental in Saskatoon, SK
If you are looking for a dental office that places great importance on treating patients of all ages, we invite you to schedule a consultation for your kids and the entire family. Our friendly and professional team will ensure your family is always well taken care of. Schedule an appointment online, or call (306) 242-5233.