It’s never too early for preventative dentistry.

You may think that bringing a toddler to the dentist is too early to start their oral health care, but you’d be wrong! At Must Love Kids Pediatric Dentistry in Vancouver, Dr. G and Dr. Mo recommend your child make their first dental visit around the same time their first tooth erupts. This is often before their first birthday.

An early start on a good oral health routine will help keep your little one’s smile bright, and will help them get used to the sights and sounds of the dental office. Dr. G and Dr. Mo specialize in pediatric dentistry, so your child will be in good hands during their visits.

Why early preventative dentistry is important.

Just like your child visits their pediatrician for preventative care, visiting their pediatric dentist in Vancouver, Washington, is important for their oral health. Preventative dentistry allows the Must Love Kids Pediatric Dental team to monitor your child’s dental health and catch any dental issues before they become major problems. 

Preventative dental appointments can prevent dental issues, like cavities and gum disease, while they are in their early stages, which makes them easier to treat. Preventative dental visits also allow the team to monitor how your child’s teeth are coming in. If there is an issue with your child’s bite, it can cause problems eating and speaking. If the alignment of their teeth is off enough or there is a tooth crowding or spacing issue, your child may need orthodontic intervention. Dr. Mo has training in orthodontics and can assess your child for braces, if they should need it.

Another reason preventative dental appointments at Must Love Kids Pediatric Dentistry are important is because they get your child used to what goes on in a dental clinic. Frequent visits allow your child to get used to the sights and sounds of the dental office, which can be unfamiliar and scary if your child doesn’t visit us on a regular basis. We recommend biannual dental checkups to help keep their dental health a top priority.

Finally, preventative dental care serves as a stepping stone for good oral health habits for their entire lives. Getting children in the habit of visiting the dentist twice a year sets them up for a routine and for success. 

Key Preventative Measures for Children

The basis for a preventative dental appointment at Must Love Kids is for a thorough dental checkup, followed by a cleaning. During each appointment, your child can expect our team to perform a full evaluation of their mouth and teeth, followed by dental X-rays to catch any small dental issues that can’t be seen with the naked eye, like the start of a cavity. Following that, your child will receive a professional dental cleaning and polishing, which will leave your child’s teeth sparkling.

During these dental evaluations, our team can go over proper brushing and flossing techniques at home. Sometimes, children can have a hard time properly caring for their teeth, so our team is willing to take the time to show your child the proper way to brush their teeth and floss.

At your child’s dental appointment, Dr. G or Dr. Mo may recommend extra dental treatments that will help your child’s teeth stay strong and prevent cavities. 

One recommendation is fluoride treatments. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps keep the enamel, or outer layer of the tooth, strong. A fluoride treatment is simple, painless, and easy. It can be done in the office in a matter of minutes. A fluoride treatment consists of applying a fluoride solution to your child’s teeth, then allowing it to cure under a special dental light for a few moments. That is all there is to it!

A second treatment your dentist may recommend is a dental sealant on your child’s molars. The molars, or back teeth, are often hard for children to brush properly, making them susceptible to cavities. To help prevent this, your dentist may recommend a dental sealant. A dental sealant is a protective coating applied to the molars to give them an extra layer of protection. This is a treatment that can be done in minutes right in our office, and won’t cause your child any pain or discomfort.

The Role of Parents in Preventative Dentistry

Besides being the one to make the appointment, as a parent, you play an important role in your child’s dental health. Preventative dental care starts at home, and often, children look up to their parents, so take time to brush your teeth together. Make it a point to show your children that proper oral hygiene habits will last them a lifetime and will help keep their smile healthy. So if you or your child haven’t been to the dentist within the last six months, schedule an appointment today!