Nothing may put your child in a worse mood than telling them: it’s time for your dentist appointment! This is often met with kicking, screaming, and complaining throughout the trip there. But taking your child to the dentist twice a year is important; our teeth are with us for our whole lives, and healthy oral habits must start at an early age. Here’s why your child should see the dentist regularly:

A dentist can catch cavities early. Lots of kids get cavities; in fact, 20% of children have had at least one cavity. They might be common, but they shouldn’t be ignored. Most small cavities can be repaired with a filling. Left untreated, a cavity can begin to erode the roots of the teeth. This will require more extensive work, like a crown or a root canal. Seeing the dentist semi-annually will save your child from experiencing these uncomfortable procedures - their teeth can be repaired with fillings before it’s too late.

A dentist can alleviate pain. Toothaches are uncomfortable, whether you’re an adult or a child. If your kid has a painful tooth, they can visit a Charleswood dentist. Once the cavity is filled, the discomfort and sensitivity will subside. The fluoride treatment that dentists apply helps keep your child’s teeth strong.

It creates healthy habits. Your child might notice the connection between better oral care and easier dental visits. When they neglect their teeth and get cavities, they’ll need fillings - that will involve needles and drilling, which most people dislike. Regular dental visits will teach them that maintaining their teeth will make their lives less painful. A child that learns these habits from a young age will carry them into adulthood with healthier teeth.

Dentists can protect your child’s teeth. Is your young one experiencing tooth decay? A dentist can apply a sealant, which is a plastic resin barrier that’s placed over the chewing areas of the teeth. It saves the enamel from enduring damage due to acidic and sugary foods. Sealants can last several years before they need a replacement. Many parents don’t see the point in repairing cavities on baby teeth since they eventually fall out. But since your child’s permanent teeth grow directly underneath them, they are impacted by the health of the gums, and so baby teeth need care also. 

A toothbrush can’t clean every tooth. Much as we try, even those who are the most attentive to oral care miss spots here and there. The dentist has the tools to remove plaque and tartar from hard to reach places. They’ll also be able to floss the teeth at the back of the mouth, which children might have trouble with.

Dentists can teach them about how to care for their teeth. The dentist can show your child how to properly brush and floss each tooth. They can teach your child which foods to avoid for healthy gums to prevent periodontal disease. Any questions that your child may have about oral health can be answered by a professional.

Regular visits will help children overcome dental anxiety. Many children feel uncomfortable about dental check-ups. This anxiety can get worse if it’s left to fester in their heads; they may imagine tools of torture and cruel dentists that are far from reality. Sometimes, it’s best to face these fears head-on. You can address their anxieties and adjust their perception by taking them into the dental office. When they meet a friendly dentist who uses techniques to make the experience less uncomfortable, they’ll realize that going to the dentist isn’t as terrible as they’d thought it might be.

It can improve their self-esteem. If your child has yellow or damaged teeth, then they may feel embarrassed to smile. It can impact their confidence and make them feel shy or uncomfortable about laughing and talking. Take them to the dentist to polish their pearly whites. It will increase their confidence in their smile. If your child needs braces, then a dentist can refer you to a local orthodontist.

Have you ever met a child who likes going to the dentist? Me neither. But just because a kid may not like having their teeth cleaned doesn’t mean they should skip their dental check-up - it will only result in pain down the line. Regular dental visits set your child up for a lifetime of excellent oral health.