Kids go through so many stages from infancy through preschool, middle school, the teenage years all the way to young adulthood, and with each age comes new challenges. Dental issues also change along with each phase of the child’s growth. Pediatric dentists have gone through the extra training and achieved the expertise to deal with every possible contingency.
Both the ADA (American Dental Association) and the AAPD (American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry) recommend that parents find a pediatric dental home as soon as their child’s teeth begin to come in. The reason being that earlier the child becomes accustomed to the sights and sounds of the dental office the more at ease they will feel about future experiences.
Pediatric dentists recommend that parents use a size-appropriate soft bristle toothbrush and water to clean their child’s teeth but by the age of 3 he should begin to learn to brush his teeth using a fluoride toothpaste. Flossing should be introduced when the back molars start to erupt and the teeth come together.
Fluoride is an excellent cavity fighter and with the right toothpaste and a fluoridated drinking water supply children should be well protected. If a pediatric dentist detects that a child is at high risk for cavities he may suggest an in-office fluoride treatment.
Kaelin Pediatric Dentistry is focused on the prevention and education that will work toward the goal of giving every patient a happy and healthy smile. Call 303-805-8266 for your appointment with Dr. Kaelin.