When it comes to our teeth, the care we receive as children has a life-long impact on our future habits and oral health. Children in Ashburn, VA should begin to see a pediatric dentist when they have their first tooth and should continue to see one regularly to ensure any potential problems are caught early and treated before they can bloom into serious issues. The importance of ongoing preventative dentistry for children cannot and should not be overlooked, as there are multiple reasons that it should be a priority in every child’s life.
Instilling Good Habits
Seeing a pediatric dentist on a schedule is crucial for teaching your child from a very young age that oral health is a priority. Our dentist can ensure that your child is brushing and flossing properly and provide guidance if there are areas being overlooked. Instilling these habits young will help put your child on the path to a healthy, bright smile for their entire life. A child that is not seen by a pediatric dentist regularly has no way to know if their brushing and flossing is effective, and improper oral care as a child can lead to tooth loss, decay and gum disease as an adult.
Treating Issues as They Arise
It is much easier to treat a tiny cavity than to restore a tooth in need of a root canal. The same can be said for minor bite problems that can bloom into poor wear patterns in need of crowns and caps over time. Catching small problems before they can turn into major issues is important, especially when it comes to our teeth. Our dentist in Ashburn, VA will be monitoring the position of your child’s teeth, the alignment of their bite and will watch carefully for any signs of decay, infection or disease. Getting treatment as an ongoing process will help stave off major dental work in adulthood.
Oral Health as Part of Overall Health
Our teeth and jaw alignment have an impact on our overall health. An infection in the teeth can sometimes present as pain in the sinuses or ears, which may go misdiagnosed by a general practitioner. Some migraine sufferers have noticed a reduction or cessation of their headaches after having their dental issues addressed. Some digestive issues, such as indigestion and constipation, can also be linked back to tooth problems and poor bite. Without healthy, strong teeth and a correct bite, other aspects of our health can be impacted in ways we might not even realize.
Ongoing preventative dental care should be a priority for every child’s upbringing. If your child has not been examined in the past six months or you have not established a relationship with a pediatric dentist, schedule an appointment at Ashburn Children’s Dentistry in Ashburn, VA. We look forward to meeting you and your child and helping them keep a bright, healthy smile for life. Contact us today to book an appointment for your little one!