If you were asked which childhood illness is the most prevalent, what would you say? Based on experience, you might guess something like ear infections. But the most common chronic childhood illness of children between ages 6 and 11 is dental caries (cavities).
Helping Your Child Enjoy Great Oral Health
Fortunately, it isn’t necessary for kids to suffer with unhealthy teeth. While cavities are common, they are also highly preventable with a healthy diet, proper oral hygiene, and routine checkups with your dentist.
Minimizing your child’s risk for decay isn’t just critical for their oral health. Kids who suffer from oral health problems often experience discomfort, which can result in difficulties speaking correctly, eating comfortably, and missed time from school.
Your child deserves the gift of excellent oral health, which is not difficult to achieve. Our goal at Saticoy Plaza Dentistry is to educate parents about how they can minimize their child’s risk of decay.
Here are some steps you can take to ensure that your child enjoys a healthy smile:
- Just like you, your child should brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- When your child is able, show them how to clean between their teeth with floss.
- Carefully monitor your child’s eating habits. Making healthier food choices for them can minimize a lot of oral health issues.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional exams and cleaning appointments.
Childhood Preventive Treatments
During your child’s visit, we may recommend dental sealants. This protective plastic coating is applied to uneven chewing surfaces like molars to block out decay. We may also find that your child would benefit from supplemental fluoride to strengthen their teeth. Some studies show that fluoridated water has helped reduce cavities in baby teeth by as much as 40%.
Every child deserves a happy, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. If you would like more information about how kid’s dentistry in Van Nuys can benefit your child, please call Saticoy Plaza Dentistry.