Did you know we offer Pediatric Dentistry? At Buckingham Dental we know you care about your child’s health. You want to do everything you can to ensure they have strong health teeth and gums now and throughout their life. Good oral health starts early, just as their baby teeth appear. Many parents don’t realize that their child should have their first visit to the dentist about six months after their first teeth erupt, and no later than their first birthday. Bringing your child in at a very early age helps you prevent tooth decay and will educate yourself and your child about proper home care and hygiene. It also early gets your child used to coming to the dentist and prevents any fear or trepidation about dental visits in the future.
Getting Ready for Your Child’s First Visit
Before your child’s visit ask the dentist about the procedures and ask any questions you may have. Have a plan in case your child is uncooperative or fussy. Many young children can’t sit for a long time, and may become fussy if required to sit for long periods. Talk to your child and get them excited to come see the dentist. Explain to them what will take place in terms they can understand. Bring any records you may have of your child’s medical history as well as a list of medication your child takes.
If your child is very young you may be required to sit in the chair and hold him or her while the dentist examines them. Most children do well with appointments early in the day since they will be rested and fresh during that time. At Buckingham Dental we will make every effort to help you and your child feel at ease and comfortable during your visits.
Cleaning and Fluoride
Your child’s teeth face the same risks for decay and cavities as you do. Their permanent teeth are developing at this stage in life, and by taking good care of your child’s baby teeth you can help their permanent teeth to be healthy and strong. Dr. Buckingham recommends a thorough cleaning of your child’s teeth every six months. This removes any food debris, built up plaque, and tartar from the teeth which can contribute to tooth decay and cavities. During a regular cleaning we can also monitor any changes in your child’s teeth and gums and address them before they become painful and expensive problems.
Application of fluoride helps build and maintain strong enamel. Enamel protects the teeth from decay and damage. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral and bonds with your child’s teeth to help strengthen and protect them. Fluoride application is quick and easy, and a safe and effective way to protect your child’s teeth. The doctor may apply fluoride in a gel, foam, or brush on liquid.
Sealants
Another measure of protection you can give your child is the application of sealants. Sealants are a thin plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Sealants serve as a barrier to food and plaque. The back teeth may have deep grooves which brushing and flossing may not reach to remove food debris and plaque. This may lead to the formation of harmful bacteria which can cause tooth decay and cavities. The application of sealants is quick and easy, and gives your child another measure of protection against decay and cavities.
Fillings
Even with the best oral care cavities may form. This is because food debris and plaque make the mouth the perfect breeding ground of harmful bacteria. The bacteria cause tooth decay and can cause cavities. You may wonder why you need to fix cavities in baby teeth. There are several compelling reasons to fill cavities in your child’s baby teeth. Your child’s baby, or primary, teeth help develop good speech skills and contribute to your child’s ability to eat and gain the nutrients from food. Your child’s baby teeth also guide the proper eruption of their permanent teeth. The baby teeth must be in place for his or her permanent teeth to come in properly. This is why your dentist will recommend filling a tooth instead of pulling it in children.
At Buckingham Dental we know visiting the dentist can be a scary prospect for children, and getting a tooth filled can cause anxiety and fear in children. We use the latest pediatric dentistry practices and we make sure you and your child are comfortable before we proceed. We will answer any questions you may have and explain the procedure thoroughly. Your child will be made comfortable and at ease before and during the filling procedure. We offer composite, tooth colored, fillings which look and feel like the natural tooth.
At Buckingham Dental we believe your child deserves the healthiest and brightest smile possible. Call or contact us today and ask about our pediatric dental services. We love kids and this shows in the high level of care and compassion we have for each one of our young patients and their families.