Early dental visits are essential for keeping kids cavity-free because they give your pediatric dentist an opportunity to identify potential problems before they become serious. Did you know that over 50% of Arizona children have a cavity (tooth decay) by age 5? Don't become a statistic and start your child's oral health journey early. This is also why the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends your child establish a dental home no later than age 1.
Here are some ways in which early dental visits can help prevent cavities in children:
1) Establishing good oral hygiene habits: Early dental visits can help parents learn how to properly care for their child's teeth, including how to brush and floss effectively. Establishing good oral hygiene habits early on can help prevent cavities and other dental problems from developing.
2) Identifying potential issues: During a child's first dental visit, the pediatric dentist will examine their teeth, gums, and mouth to look for any potential issues and assess overall development. If problems are identified early, they can be addressed before they become more serious, potentially preventing cavities from developing.
3) Applying preventive treatments: Applying preventive treatments, such as fluoride varnish, to a child's teeth is completed during their early dental visits. These treatments can help strengthen the teeth and protect enamel from damage caused by cavity-causing bacteria.
4) Providing dietary guidance: Your pediatric dental team can provide parents with guidance on the best foods and drinks to give their children to promote good oral health. This guidance can help prevent cavities by reducing the amount of sugar and acid that a child's teeth are exposed to during meals and snacks.
Overall, early dental visits are critical for establishing good oral hygiene habits, identifying potential issues, applying preventive treatments, and providing dietary guidance. By taking a proactive approach to dental care, parents can help their children maintain healthy teeth and avoid cavities. The best part is that if dental visits start before there is a problem, then your child has the opportunity to build more positive dental visits early in life that can lead to a lifetime of oral health and wellness.