At SmilesHQ, our goal is to help every patient achieve and maintain the best oral health possible. That’s why we focus on preventive dental check-ups, cleans and at-home oral care for all our patients. However, we also understand that children’s dentistry can pose its own set of dental issues, So, keep reading to learn more about some of the more common dental issues kids face.
Cavities: Causes and Prevention
A cavity occurs when the bacteria in your mouth mix with sugars and starches from what you eat and form acids. These acids eventually become dental plaque, which sticks to your teeth.
Unless you remove the plaque by brushing and flossing, it dissolves your tooth enamel and causes a hole, or cavity, in your tooth.
Here are some ways to prevent cavities and keep your mouth healthy:
- Avoid sugary drinks and snacks, and avoid snacking between meals.
- Brush your teeth in the morning and evening with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss your teeth once a day.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Make regular visits to your dentist every six months.
Tooth Decay in Young Children
Your child’s baby teeth are essential; they help build jaw and facial muscles and enable them to chew, smile and speak correctly. Baby teeth are also vital to maintaining proper nutrition, so keeping them healthy is integral to their oral health journey.
Young children are susceptible to baby bottle tooth decay, which occurs when they use a sippy cup or bottle as a pacifier. The bacteria in their mouths mix with the sugar and attack their tooth enamel.
To avoid baby bottle tooth decay, do not give your child juice or milk while they are in bed and clean their teeth and gums often.
Bringing Your Child to the Dentist for the First Time Near Newcastle
We recommend bringing your child to our dental clinic for a regular check-up around age two. Because children are naturally curious, this is the perfect time to show them how fun it can be to visit the dentist and begin building a lifelong relationship with them.
We also understand how essential it is to combine regular dental cleanings with at-home care to help your child keep their natural teeth for a lifetime.
Looking for Children’s Dentistry in Warners Bay, NSW?
If you need a kid-friendly dentist in Warners Bay or Newcastle, consider the SmilesHQ team. We look forward to educating our young patients on the importance of at-home oral care and making their visits to our dental clinic something they look forward to. To arrange an appointment, call us at (02) 4062 0705.