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The Battle Against Tooth Decay: Preventive Dentistry for Kids

February 26, 2024
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Posted By: SmilesHQ
young girl smiling in dental chair in warners bay

As a parent, you have a seemingly endless number of things you must accomplish daily. So, when it’s time to visit your Warners Bay dentist for exams and cleanings, it may be easy to postpone appointments if your child isn’t experiencing any dental concerns. Although it may seem tempting, given your time constraints, preventive dentistry is the cornerstone of long-term oral health. So, in the battle against tooth decay, why is preventive dentistry so important?

The Importance of Regular Dental Cleanings and Exams

Your kid’s dentist at SmilesHQ wants you to bring your child in for their first exam by the time they turn one. It’s essential to visit your dentist early and regularly to build a firm foundation for their oral health and help them avoid tooth decay. Here’s what you can expect when you bring your child in for an exam:

  1. First, we will help your child get comfortable and ease their anxiety.
  2. Then, we will examine your child’s teeth and gums, watching for any evidence of tooth decay or other issues.
  3. We will gently remove any plaque and tartar from their teeth before providing a fluoride treatment.
  4. We will apply dental sealants to protect your child’s teeth if necessary.

At-Home Oral Health Tips

Here are some things you can do at home to help your child avoid cavities:

  • Brush their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss their teeth once a day.
  • When they are old enough, teach them to brush their teeth, but monitor their brushing.
  • Make brushing and flossing fun by singing songs or listening to music while brushing.
  • Brush your teeth simultaneously with your kids to reinforce the importance of good dental hygiene habits.

Foods and Drinks to Avoid

There are certain foods and drinks associated with tooth decay; try to avoid or limit the following foods and beverages:

  • Chips
  • Muffins
  • Cake
  • Cookies
  • Hard candy
  • Fruit snacks
  • Sports drinks
  • Fruit juice
  • Carbonated beverages containing sugar

Looking for Kid’s Dentistry in Warners Bay, NSW?

If you need kid’s dentistry in Warners Bay or the surrounding communities, the dental team at SmilesHQ would be happy to assist you! Our focus on preventive dentistry can help your child avoid tooth decay. You can call us on (02) 4062 0705 for more information or to arrange an appointment.