Preventive dental care is the answer if you want the best oral health for your children. This applies to parents and children who want to commit to a more extensive yet beneficial way of taking good care of their oral health. But what’s the catch? If it is good, then there might be a catch, right? Honestly speaking, it can be a bit pricey. But who puts a price on safety and health, right?
In this article, we will cover why you should invest in preventive dental care and its benefits, and we will answer all your questions about it. Remember, prevention is better than cure. Let’s dive in!
What is preventive dental care?
Preventive dentistry is the practice of caring for one’s teeth to maintain their health. It requires both frequent dental checkups and the formation of healthy habits, such as brushing and flossing. Preventive dental care is often accorded a higher priority by dental insurance coverage due to its important contribution to patients’ oral health. As a result, preventative dental services are often fully covered, with extremely low or nonexistent deductibles and no out-of-pocket costs to the patient. It also usually involves routine x-rays to see if the teeth are growing according to plan.
What are the benefit of preventative dental care?
You all know that prevention is better than cure, right? Coming from the word ‘preventive,’ this type of dental care focuses on preventing dental problems, especially in children. Try to think of it as a maintenance medicine to prevent complications. As we said, it’s a combination of habits and dental checkups; thus, aside from going to the dentist, you should also take good care of your teeth at home.
The benefits of preventive dental care are straightforward. It prevents cavities, tooth decay, and even toothaches. It also gives your child the advantage of growing a great set of teeth that doesn’t need braces or retainers. Preventive dental care also promotes strong teeth that are not prone to fractures. Overall, the benefits will mostly be seen in the future. That’s why investing in preventive dental care for your kids is important and should be taken seriously by parents.
How should your child practice preventive dental care?
Here are some of the best habits you can teach your child to do their part in preventive dental care.
- Children must make brushing their teeth a daily habit. Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice daily is the best strategy to prevent cavities and gum disease. Remember to brush their tongue while you’re at it. This action will benefit them by reducing the number of bacteria in their mouths and improving their breath.
- The recommended period between toothbrush replacements is three to four times a year or whenever the bristles get frayed.
- If they are night teeth grinders, you may wish to suggest a nocturnal mouth guard to protect their gums.
- Do not skip flossing. Daily flossing can help reduce plaque accumulation by eliminating food particles between teeth.
- If food remains lodged between teeth after flossing, gargling with mouthwash can help.
- Acidic foods can harm the enamel of your teeth, and thus it is recommended to avoid them.
- Once a year, you should visit the dentist for a screening examination to check for abnormalities with your teeth and gums. See the dentist more frequently if you have a high risk for dental problems. They have at least something to gain from this.
- Consume foods from several food groups. A diet rich in vitamins and minerals is necessary to preserve healthy teeth and gums. Limiting sugary foods and drinks as much as possible is also crucial. Daily water consumption is also recommended.
These habits, along with regular dental checkups and cleaning, can improve your child’s oral health. Remember to consult a pediatric dentist to help you and your kid.
If you are looking for a pediatric dentist in Herndon, VA, look no further than Junior Smiles of Stafford. Their team of experienced professionals provides a welcoming environment and specialized care for children, ensuring that your child’s dental visit is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Conclusion
Practicing good preventive health can save you money by lowering the possibility that your child will experience other health problems. Even if a person has dental insurance, the expenditures associated with poor oral hygiene can pile up over time. Oral care routines are just as vital as dental visits. Thus, make sure you continue your routine of cleaning your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, and eating a balanced diet.
