Whether your child will be in the classroom or learning from home, a healthy smile is still a back-to-school essential. Some schools require a yearly dental exam. The end of summer is always a good time to schedule one of your child’s dental visits. It is also a great time to help get back into a routine if your child’s dental habits fell short this summer.
Here are a few questions to ask the dentist at your child’s appointment:
How Is My Child’s Dental Health?
The dentist will be looking at your child’s mouth, including teeth and gums. He or she will check to make sure the teeth are lining up correctly and watch for any orthodontic issues that may show up later.
Will My Child Need X-Rays?
Dental x-rays help your dentist see how your child’s teeth are developing and make sure the roots of the teeth are healthy. They also are used to see if there is any tooth decay between your child’s teeth. Your child may not need an x-ray at every visit.
Will My Child Get a Teeth Cleaning Today?
Yes, no matter how well your child brushes his or her teeth. Even if your child brushes twice a day, it’s not possible to get rid of all the bacteria that can lead to cavities. That’s why a professional teeth cleaning goes a long way. It will remove harmful plaque and tartar between your child’s teeth and along the gum line. It can also remove stains from the teeth.
My Child Plays Sports. Does He Need a Mouthguard?
If your child plays sports year-round, you should consider getting him or her a mouthguard to protect the teeth. Athletic mouthguards help cushion blows to your face or mouth, minimizing the risk of broken teeth and injuries to your lips, tongue, face, or jaw. They cover the upper teeth and are an important piece of equipment if you participate in organized sports or other physical activities.
Make sure you bring the mouthguard to your child’s dental visit so your dentist can check for wear, tear and fit. The mouthguard may need to be refitted if your child is having a growth spurt.
Does My Child Need Sealants?
Sealants are not a substitute for brushing and flossing but can help keep your child from getting cavities. A sealant is a thin, protective coating that your dentist can place on the chewing surfaces of your child’s permanent back teeth (molars). They work to keep cavity-causing bacteria and bits of food from settling into the nooks and crannies your child’s toothbrush can’t reach. This helps keep cavities from forming and tiny existing spots of decay from getting worse.
Having sealants on your permanent molars reduces the risk of cavities by 80%. It’s best to get sealants as soon as your child’s permanent molars come through their gums. Most sealants last for years, and your child’s dentist will check them at every regular visit.
Family Dentistry
The staff at Webster Dental is warm and friendly, creating a welcoming atmosphere that is family-oriented and will put you and your child at ease. If it’s time to schedule your next dental appointment, let Webster Dental show you how much we care about your oral health and gleaming smile. Call our office today at (630) 663-0554. Webster Dental is located at 1121 Warren Avenue, Suite 130, in Downers Grove, Illinois.