Children’s Dental Checkups

Children’s dental checkups are quick, affordable, painless, and, most importantly, critical in maintaining your child’s oral health care. This means that your child will be able to avoid potential dental issues or stop them before they become complicated. The sad reality is most of us wait until a child is three or older to take them to a dentist. By this time, a child would have developed serious dental problems that damage their gums and teeth. A child’s teeth have a significant role as they grow older. Without regular checkups and cleanings, most dental problems may go unnoticed when they are still young. Dr. Vanessa Wadden serves families and children in Muscatine and the surrounding areas. We ensure that your child gets the best dental pediatric care.

What is the purpose of Children’s Dental Checkups?

Plaque is common in children since they form whenever a child eats. It is the sticky deposits on teeth that harbor millions of bacteria and provides a conducive environment for the bacteria to proliferate. Though plaque can be eliminated by brushing and flossing, the probability of buildups is still significant in children depending on their hygiene, diet, and genetics. The bacteria usually cause gum disease and cavities. When plaque hardens into tartar, also known as calculus, its removal becomes even more complicated.

Tartar forms within 48 hours, and in just a few days, its removal becomes almost impossible until you visit a dentist. On the other hand, cavities in children are painful and potentially lead to infections, tooth loss, and even permanent damage to your child’s mouth.

Dental cleanings and checkups are meant to avoid problems such as:

• Tooth decay
• Swelling
• Infection
• Periodontal disease
• Gingivitis (bleeding gums)
• Pain

Are dental checkups necessary if your child has healthy teeth?

The answer is YES. Children, unlike adults, are vulnerable to a variety of oral problems. Six months after the last checkup is a lot of time for dental issues to develop. Changes in behavior in children, for example, thumb sucking, can put them at risk of misalignment. In addition to the visual assessments and cleanings, we monitor your child’s fluoride levels and also apply dental sealants when necessary. Using a fluoride varnish or gel protects your child’s teeth from acid attacks and tooth decay. Fluoride varnish treatments are essential at least 2 to 4 times a year, though its necessity may vary. On the other hand, Sealants, which are strong liquid plastic substances, protect your child’s back teeth (molars) from harmful bacteria, acid, or debris.

How often should your child have dental checkups?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD) recommends children to make biannual dental visits when a child is one year old or six months after the first tooth appears. However, parents should feel free visiting a dentist earlier, partly because it is essential for children to develop a trusting relationship with their dentist at a young age. This makes them feel at ease while undergoing oral checkups. On the other hand, dental visits at a young age assist us in monitoring new developments. We also evaluate the changes in the condition of gums & teeth. If you have any concerns about whether your child is ready to see a dentist, don’t hesitate to consult with us.

Benefits of dental visits:

Whether it’s for their baby teeth or adult permanent teeth, it’s crucial to start dental care early.

• Your child becomes familiar with professional dental care
• We are able to monitor your child’s oral health
• Keeps your child’s oral system clean
• Teaches you child the importance of oral hygiene
• Prevents misalignment
• Prevents tooth decay
• Prevents gum problems
• Teaches children the importance of choosing healthy foods by avoiding or reducing sugar intake
• As a parent, you will be able to know the essential information needed on how to provide dental care at home. It would also ease common concerns on oral habits such as lip-sucking and tongue-thrusting
• It reduces potential oral care expenses in your child’s lifetime

Set up your kids’ dental appointment with us!

We are passionate about children’s health. We understand that healthy practices in children influence their habits when they grow older. A simple cleaning from us could be just what your child needs for a whiter smile or fresh breath. With Dr. Vanessa Wadden leading our team, we guarantee you quality. Consider Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry your best option for pediatric dentistry services in Muscatine and the surrounding areas.

Book an appointment with us today!