We strongly feel that pediatric dental care is essential for giving children the proper foundation for a healthy life, from childhood through adolescence and beyond.
The AAPD recommends that a child’s first dental visit occur shortly after the first tooth erupts and no later than the child’s first birthday. But according to the 2005 National Survey of Childrens Health (NSHC), only 10 percent of 1-year olds and 23.8 percent of 2-year olds had been taken for a preventive dental care visit in the past year.
Studies show that children with poor oral health perform worse in school and have less success later in life, says American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) President Philip H. Hunke, D.D.S., M.S.D. Establishing the right oral care habits early helps get kids headed on the path to a lifetime of good oral health.
Baby Bottle Tooth Decay
- It is also called Nursing decay. This type of decay is caused by continuous exposure to liquids that are high in sugar content and acidic in nature. These liquids can include fruit juice, formula, milk, soft drinks, and other sweetened drinks. It is important to not allow your infant to fall asleep with a baby bottle containing any type of sweetened liquids.
Sealants
- Sealants are the number one tooth decay barrier. Its is a clear resin material that penetrates into the deep grooves and pits on the surfaces of your teeth, protecting them from sugar or acid. Sealants may be required to be replaced every few years.
Sports Guard
- Kids who play sports are prone to athletic injuries. Dental injuries are the most common type of facial injuries sustained while playing sports. Sports guard is a protective device which can prevent damage to teeth and surroundings oral tissues. The two types of sports guard that are available in the market are custom-made and other one is over the counter.
Fluoride
- Fluoride from drinking water and other sources such as toothpaste can strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent tooth decay. Fluoride is an important mineral for all children. Bacteria in the mouth combine with sugars and produce acid that can harm tooth enamel and damage teeth. Fluoride protects teeth from acid damage and helps reverse early signs of decay. Make sure your children are drinking plenty of water and brushing with toothpaste that has fluoride in it.