Routine dental check-ups are essential for maintaining your child’s oral health. The American Dental Association recommends that children visit the dentist every six months. These regular visits are important as children’s mouths are continuously developing and are often more susceptible to tooth decay. Establishing proper oral health habits early on can help ensure a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

What Happens During Your Child’s Dental Visit?

At Family 1st Dental – Hawarden, we are dedicated to providing thorough dental care for children. During their routine visit, we will:

• Screen for tooth decay and gum disease: Our team will carefully check for any early signs of cavities or gum issues.
• Professional cleaning: We will clean your child’s teeth, gently removing plaque and tartar buildup, which helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
• Discuss oral hygiene: We will guide your child on proper brushing techniques. Depending on their age, we may also introduce flossing and the correct use of mouthwash. Our friendly, patient team is always happy to answer any questions from both parents and children.

Sealants: A Preventative Measure

In addition to cleaning and education, we may recommend dental sealants as a preventive treatment. Sealants are an excellent way to protect your child’s teeth, especially their molars and premolars, which are most prone to cavities due to deep grooves.

Sealants act as a protective barrier that helps keep out plaque and acids that contribute to tooth decay. This simple procedure is quick and effective. Here’s how it works:

• Teeth are cleaned: We begin by thoroughly cleaning your child’s teeth.
• Sealant application: A special solution is applied to the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
• Curing the sealant: The solution is then hardened using a special light, creating a smooth, protective surface.

Sealants are typically applied as soon as the permanent molars and premolars come in, usually around ages 6 to 14. However, adults with healthy teeth may also benefit from sealants to protect their molars.

Maintaining Healthy Teeth

While sealants provide an additional layer of protection, they are not a substitute for daily brushing and flossing. It’s important to continue practicing good oral hygiene and keep up with regular dental cleanings. Sealants typically last for several years, but we will check them during your child’s routine visits to ensure they are still intact and effective.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

At Family 1st Dental – Hawarden, we are committed to helping your child develop healthy dental habits. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, contact our office today. Our experienced dentist in Hawarden is here to support your child’s dental health at every stage of growth.