Taking care of your little one’s well-being matters every step of the way. It is extremely important to start your child off with healthy oral habits from a young age. Their initial dental visit should be when that first tooth pokes through the gums or when they turn one, whichever happens first. Visiting a pediatric dentist for check-ups and teeth cleaning in Calgary’s NE is the foundation for a strong, happy mouth.
Why Baby Teeth Are So Important
Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, it is important to take care of all of them. Primary teeth play an important role in a myriad of things.
- Chewing and Digestion – Growth and health come with getting proper nutrients and these nutrients are found in food that must be chewed. Chewing can be difficult when teeth don’t develop properly. Chewing allows for food to be broken down from solid form so the body can easily digest it and gain the benefits from each source.
- Speech – When teeth grow in straight it makes it easier to speak clearly. Teeth support the tongue and lips which lends itself to how words are articulated.
- Facial Structure – As baby teeth develop further the facial muscles and bone begin to develop. The facial structure relies on the proper growth of these things for symmetry. When teeth can’t be used for support then the face begins to sag.
Why Teeth Cleaning in Calgary’s NE Is Important
It is never a good thing to have teeth ridden with plaque and tartar, but this is what happens when they aren’t taken care of. Little teeth and adult teeth need to be cleaned to avoid oral health issues. Plaque and tartar can lead to decay and severe gum disease, lending itself to premature tooth loss. Luckily, regular brushing and flossing along with a dental hygienist consultation and once or twice per year dentist appointments help keep precious enamel and gums healthy.
Your little one’s pediatric dentist will be able to catch any sign of early tooth trouble and correct it. Your child’s first teeth cleaning will start with an inspection of their teeth, jaw, and gums. The hygienist also examines their bite. Specialized, small tools that comfortably fit inside your little one’s mouth are used to further inspect areas that are difficult to see. Any plaque and tartar found are gently removed to prevent issues. The hygienist will recommend flossing and brushing techniques to ensure a solid cleaning routine at home. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush in circular motions is the ideal way to clean teeth without damage.
Additional Benefits of Pediatric Dentistry
- Further Education – A pediatric dentist will help you learn techniques to keep your child’s mouth healthy. While you may already know most of these, you may have forgotten some important steps.
- Regularly scheduled Visits – A Healthy future is often reliant upon forming healthy habits at a young age. When your little one gets used to cleaning their teeth well and visiting the dentist once or twice a year, they are more likely to keep this up in the future.
- Breaking of Bad Habits – Everyone has them, but bad habits can be broken, especially if discovered early in life. A pediatric dentist may point out things that interfere with the proper development of teeth and gums. Thumb sucking past two years old can cause overbite or crossbite leading to orthodontic visits. Helping your child curb this habit early on is easier on you, them, and your pocket.
How to Keep Your Child Comfortable at the Dentist
Visiting a dentist for the first time is often intimidating since your child is being introduced to a new space. They may be scared to see all the dental tools splayed out on the table and be reluctant to get in the dental chair. You can, however, help ease their mind in these situations.
- Education – Be sure to talk to your child about their teeth by informing them about proper hygiene, nutrition, and good habits. Let them know why visiting a dentist is a good thing and can be a positive experience. It is easier for children to accept things when they understand why they are necessary and what to expect.
- Stay With Them – Hold your child’s hand through their dental appointment to keep them comfortable and let them know you are there for them. They will feel more confident knowing someone they know, and trust is beside them.
- Pre-Visit – Let your child get to know the space before the day of their appointment. Take a tour of the dentist’s office so they are not hit with a new environment on the day they get treatment. This will help ease their mind and reduce any dental anxiety due to some familiarity.
Dental Discovery
As your child grows so do their experiences with the dentist. Over time, they will get used to everything related to their oral health. At Savanna Market Dental, we ensure your little one is as comfortable as they can be from their initial appointment through adulthood. We are familiar with children’s dentistry and know how to communicate on an understanding level. Getting a teeth cleaning in Calgary’s NE, or any treatment will become part of their routine.
