Young children should be introduced to pediatric dentistry in Oak Lawn early on. This professional service can help establish lifelong healthy habits that impact a person’s teeth and overall health.
First Exam
Children should see a pediatric dentist while they still have baby teeth. These specialists are prepared for any fears that might arise. The exam will be extremely kid-friendly. The office is typically decorated for young minds. Most establishments have cartoons or movies playing, and you may even find a playroom with toys. During this first visit, parents will learn how to clean their baby’s teeth and gums.
Preventative Visits
The dental hygienist or dentist will teach older children how to brush their teeth. They often use colorful toothbrushes and silly sayings to make the lesson enjoyable. Once home, you will want to encourage your child to brush twice a day. If you can make this task fun or rewarding, the young person will quickly develop this daily habit. The dentist may recommend certain preventative treatments, such as sealants and fluoride drops. Parents may want to opt for sealants because the protective layer helps prevent cavities, and fluoride strengthens teeth.
Emergencies
Some dental emergencies parents may encounter are broken or knocked-out teeth. If a tooth breaks, make sure you find the pieces because they can be choking hazards. If a permanent tooth is knocked out, you must preserve the tooth and contact your dentist immediately.
Pediatric dentists and their staff are trained to handle routine checkups and emergencies. For more details about pediatric dentistry in Oak Lawn, contact Chicago kiDDS Pediatric Dentistry today.