Preventive Dentistry

What is preventive dentistry?

Preventive dentistry protects your child’s teeth by taking proactive measures, such as brushing and flossing, visiting the dentist regularly, and avoiding sugary foods and beverages.

These and other practices can keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy, preventing the need for fillings, extractions, and other more complex treatments. 

How does preventive dentistry protect my child’s oral health?

Preventive dentistry protects your child from developing dental problems later on. By participating in preventive dentistry, your child is much less likely to experience gingivitis, enamel loss, periodontitis, and cavities.

Preventive dentistry also makes it possible to catch alignment problems, overcrowding, and impacted teeth early on. This can significantly reduce their risk of infection or the need for oral surgery. 

What does preventive dentistry include?

Preventive dentistry refers to several different practices, including:

Brushing 

It’s important that your child brushes their teeth at least twice each day, using fluoride toothpaste. Encourage your child to brush for at least two minutes each time, and make sure they get the tops, sides, front, and back of each tooth. 

To ensure the best possible outcome, invest in a new toothbrush every three or four months, or whenever the bristles start to fray.

Flossing

Flossing may seem time-consuming or tedious, but it’s the only way to remove food particles and plaque from the spaces between your child’s teeth and underneath their gum line. If your child has braces, flossing is particularly important, as the wires and brackets are notorious for catching bits of food.

Visiting the dentist

The team at Yorktown Pediatric Dentistry recommends children undergo a comprehensive oral exam and professional dental cleaning every six months. Common problems like cavities and gum disease don’t always present obvious symptoms early on. Regular check-ups can detect them early on before they cause more serious problems. 

Eating a healthy diet

The foods and beverages your child consumes directly affect their oral health and well-being. Try to limit sugary or starchy snacks and prepare meals that contain fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Vitamins are a crucial component of good oral health, and a balanced diet ensures your child receives the nutrients they need to have a bright white smile.

If you want to keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy, it’s important to schedule a preventive dentistry appointment at Yorktown Pediatric Dentistry. Book a consultation online, or call the office and speak with a friendly staff member today.