Most schools require a dental exam as part of the health documentation for your child to attend school. This is a great time to ask your child’s dentist some important questions. Here are some suggestions to help you make the most of your child’s back-to-school dental visit.
- What is the status of my child’s overall dental health? During a dental visit, your dentist will typically assess your child’s overall dental health. They will check to ensure the teeth are aligned correctly, as well as look for any signs of tooth or gum disease.
- Should I schedule a professional teeth cleaning for my child? Even children who observe the rules of proper oral hygiene will see an accumulation of bacteria along the gum lines which can lead to decay and the formation of cavities. So yes, a professional teeth cleaning is recommended.
- Will my child need a dental X-Ray? An X-ray can be useful to monitor the growth of your child’s teeth, as well as checking the health of the roots. They are also used to identify signs of decay and cavities. However, most dentists only conduct X-ray exams as needed, not on a regular basis.
- Does my child need a mouthguard? If your child is, or is planning on being active in school sports, it’s important to have your child fitted for a mouthguard. It is also important to bring that mouthguard to subsequent visits to make sure it still fits properly and remains functional.
- What are sealants? A good way to prevent your child from getting cavities is by using dental sealants. These sealants are plastic, and although they stop bacteria from reaching the tooth’s surface, your child will still need to observe good oral hygiene habits.
- What treatment options are available? If your child is diagnosed with a dental problem, as your dentist about suitable treatment options. There is often more than one treatment choice available for any problem that your child may incur.
- What can I do to help keep my child’s teeth healthy? Understanding how to keep your child’s teeth healthy will go a long way to increasing the chance of his or her adult teeth being healthy. Dental professionals can offer a variety of cleaning and brushing techniques to encourage your child to follow good oral hygiene practices.
Childhood Check-Ups with a Knowledgeable and Affordable Dentist near Lincoln Square
One question that many parents would like answered, but often hesitate to ask, is, “Why are childhood dental checkups important?” Many parents underestimate the importance of baby teeth – since they are going to fall out anyway. However, the health of these temporary teeth significantly contributes to the growth and health of the adult teeth. Start your child off on the road to a lifetime of healthy smiles by visiting our knowledgeable and affordable dentist near Lincoln Square – Cornerstone Dental.
