Children Dentistry

Parents aiming to teach their children about the importance of an effective oral health routine could benefit from a range of treatments and preventative measures offered by dentists at Pearl Dental Clinic.

The following children’s dentistry advice may help guardians prevent the onset of tooth decay. It could also familiarise youngsters with the feel of the dental practice to help eradicate any dental phobias, fears or concerns in later life.

Why are healthy teeth so important?

Ensuring baby teeth remain healthy is vital for a child to eat and maintain good nutrition. In addition, healthy and correctly aligned teeth allow clear pronunciation and speech habits. They also help to guide the growth of permanent adult teeth in later life.

When will my child start teething?

A child’s baby teeth begin to develop before they are born. The first signs of eruption can occur as early as four months of age. Infants generally have all of their baby teeth by the time they reach three years old.

If milk teeth eruption is causing pain then rubbing the gum with a clean finger or the back of a cold spoon can provide relief. Parents should avoid the use of teething biscuits due to a high sugar content.

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Preventing tooth decay

There are a number of different actions a parent can take to limit the risk of tooth decay among their children. Pearl Dental Clinic professionals advise parents to avoid the consumption of milk when falling asleep.

In addition, it is vital for guardians to monitor the signs of tooth decay in an infant. Checking the side of the tongue for dull spots every two weeks should prevent the issue from worsening.

Is a healthy diet important?

Encouraging children to eat healthy foods is vital in the prevention of emerging problems with teeth and gums. The consumption of a wide variety of foods is recommended. This will help to provide nutrients to ensure the teeth, bones, and soft tissue in the mouth remain in a good condition.

First dental visit

We recommend parents should take their child to their first dental visit close to their first birthday. A child should ideally see a dentist for a routine check-up once every 6-12 months. Regular dental visits are very important in running an effective preventative program.

What is a dental sealant?

A dental sealant is a natural-looking mini-filling, which is used to prevent the onset of cavities after the growth of permanent back-teeth molars. The sealant offers children an effective level of protection against the development of potentially harmful bacteria.

Fissure sealants used in Children’s dentistry

A fissure sealant is a colourless protective liquid, which hardens with the application of a concentrated beam of ultraviolet light. The permanent fixture can remain in place for a number of years if they are cared for effectively.