Pediatric Dentistry
Menasha, WI
Taking care of your mouth is important for maintaining optimal oral health. In addition to brushing and flossing, it is also important to have your mouth professionally cared for as well. Did you know that these same habits are just as important for your child as they are for you? The needs of your child, however, are a bit different than your own. At Mid Valley Dental, we can provide for these needs with pediatric dentistry.
When Should My Child First Be Seen?
Many parents wonder when their child should have their first dental appointment. It is recommended that your child first is seen six months following the eruption of their first baby tooth or no later than their first birthday. This visit, in addition to the next few following, is essential for helping your child to grow comfortable with us, and to help you provide your child with proper dental care at home.
Cleanings and Exams
Your child, like you, should have their teeth professionally cleaned and examined every six months. During cleanings, we can remove all buildup from the surfaces of their teeth, including those areas that your child might not be able to thoroughly clean on their own. Cleanings allow us to help your child more effectively prevent issues like cavities. With exams, we can check their teeth and gums for signs of issues such as cavities and gum disease. We can spot the early warning signs of issues and stop them in their tracks.
Dental X-Rays
Dental X-rays are another important component of dental exams. Typically, your child receives their first X-rays around the age of 6 or 7. X-rays allow us to see the hidden areas in the mouth, including between the teeth and below the gum line. We can spot cavities between teeth, examine the developing adult teeth, and monitor the development of the jaw. X-rays at this age are also important for early orthodontic evaluations. These evaluations enable us to detect the presence of orthodontic issues and predict the likelihood of issues, which then allows for effective treatment planning to ensure optimal growth and development of the teeth and jaws.
Additional Preventative Care
Children are typically more prone to cavities than adults. We can help to provide them with additional protection with treatments such as fluoride and sealants. Fluoride treatments are performed during routine cleanings. After the teeth are cleaned, a fluoride gel is applied to the surfaces of the teeth. The fluoride absorbs directly into the enamel and goes to work strengthening the teeth, allowing them to more effectively defend against acid attacks from plaque and bacteria.
Sealants are an application placed on the chewing surfaces of the molars. Made of plastic, sealants effectively seal the crevices on these surfaces. This prevents food particles and bacteria from getting trapped. They also aid in helping your child to more properly clean their teeth.
Professional dental care for your child is essential for ensuring that their teeth and jaws grow and develop properly and that they develop the oral care habits necessary for maintaining optimal oral health. For more information, and to schedule an appointment for your child, call Mid Valley Dental at (920) 215-4160 today. |
