How can I ensure the best dental health for my child?

The best way to ensure your child has a lifetime of beautiful, healthy teeth is to bring them into our office for regular dental hygiene and exams. At Smile Wright Dental, we follow the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics and suggest having dental hygiene exams and cleanings every six months, even for babies. The optimal schedule is:

• First visit: Age 1 or when the first baby tooth comes in
• Every six months: After age one for cleaning and exams
• Fluoride treatments: As needed after age 1
• Dental X-rays: Ages 2-3, then annually
• Dental sealants: Ages 5-14 as molars come in

Following this schedule is important for:

• Establishing a trusting relationship with the dentist
• Helping proper speech development
• Promoting healthy nutrition by enabling appropriate chewing habits
• Guiding permanent teeth by holding space for them

What happens during a dental hygiene appointment?

When you bring your child into Smile Wright Dental for a dental hygiene appointment, you can be sure that all of our staff will make them feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible. One of our friendly hygienists will gently clean your child’s teeth and gums by removing any plaque or tartar that can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease. The hygienist will also floss and polish the patient’s teeth for a bright smile. We take care to explain everything we are doing to each patient so they don’t feel surprised by any of the feelings or noises they feel and hear. After the cleaning, we may take X-rays of your child’s teeth and jaw, then Dr. Wright will examine your child’s mouth for any problems. This is also a time for you to ask any questions you may have about your child’s oral health and to learn about any treatments your child may need.

What can I do at home to help my child with their dental hygiene?

In addition to following an appropriate schedule at the dentist, it’s important to have a good oral care routine at home to minimize problems when you do visit us. We recommend beginning a routine when your child is an infant when you will clean the infant’s mouth and gums with a soft cloth and water. As their teeth come in, you should use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste to brush their teeth twice a day. As soon as they are capable, your child should brush their own teeth with a pea-sized drop of toothpaste twice a day.

Contact Smile Wright Dental today to schedule your child’s next dental hygiene exam appointment.