CARING FOR YOUR CHILDS SMILE: A GUIDE FROM KRISHNA DENTAL HOSPITAL

Baby teeth play a crucial role in shaping the path for permanent teeth. Prioritizing your child's oral health is key to ensuring a strong foundation for their future smiles. Tooth decay concerns among children are on the rise in India, with 27% of kids aged 5-10 years left untreated for the condition (1). Nurturing good oral habits in your child early on can significantly reduce long-term oral health risks. Discover the importance of regular dental visits, what to expect during your child's appointments, and effective home care strategies.

Why are regular check-ups important?

Children's teeth develop rapidly, and issues like tooth decay and gum disease can arise swiftly. Regular check-ups enhance the chances of early problem detection, making treatment more manageable and cost-effective. Healthy baby teeth support the growth of permanent teeth beneath the gums. Damaged or missing baby teeth can impact permanent teeth, affecting overall health, proper chewing, and speech development. 

What can I expect at my child's visit?

First Visit:

The primary purpose of your child's first dental visit is to familiarize them with the dental environment, creating positive associations for future appointments. If they are comfortable, the dentist will examine their teeth, offering guidance on home care and addressing any concerns you may have.

Regular Check-ups:

Subsequent regular check-ups, recommended from around the second birthday, allow the dentist to monitor tooth and jaw development, identifying signs of decay or other issues. As your child grows, the dentist may introduce oral hygiene treatments like professional cleaning and scaling, along with orthodontic assessments around the age of 7.

Dental Treatments:

If a dental issue is detected, treatments such as fillings may be recommended, with explanations provided to ensure informed decisions. Preventive measures, like fissure sealants and custom mouthguards for sports, might also be suggested based on your child's oral health risks.

How often should my child see the dentist?

Your child's dentist will recommend check-ups every 6 to 12 months, adjusting the frequency based on individual needs. Additional visits may be advised for children with ongoing oral health concerns or undergoing treatment. Emergency dental care is available outside regular schedules for urgent situations.

How to care for your child's teeth at home:

Beyond dental visits, maintaining a robust oral hygiene routine at home is vital:

Brushing:

• Begin brushing your child's teeth as soon as they appear, using a soft children's toothbrush. Fluoride toothpaste is crucial for preventing decay, but if swallowing is a concern, water can be used initially, progressing to low-fluoride children's toothpaste around age 6.
• Supervise brushing until around age 7, ensuring proper technique and duration. Electric toothbrushes are suitable from age 3, and replacements should be made every 3 months.

Flossing:

• Start flossing as soon as your child's teeth touch, around the time they start to close gaps. Assist with flossing until around age 10, considering floss holders, interdental brushes, or water flossers if needed.

Healthy Diet:

• Reduce overall sugar intake to combat tooth decay. Hidden sugars in packaged foods and drinks contribute to decay. A balanced diet, with water as the primary drink, fosters both oral and overall health.

Seeking a Kids' Dentist in Hyderabad?

For your child's first check-up or family-friendly dental care in Hyderabad, connect with our team at Krishna Dental Hospital. To book an appointment or learn more, call 8886845454.