Tooth decay affects more than half of all children between the ages of six and eight, and is second only to the common cold in frequency. Although great strides have occurred in combatting oral diseases over the past several decades, the incidence of tooth decay has increased for children under the age of five. By the time kids reach 17, 85 percent have some degree of tooth decay. The consequences of cavities can be severe: 52 million school hours are lost every year due to dental problems. Kids who have untreated cavities may find it hard to concentrate during school or struggle to eat a healthy, balanced diet. Dr. Martirosyan, our Glendale kids dental care expert, offers comprehensive dental care for children.
Developing healthy dental habits right from the start is one of the best ways for your children to maintain healthy smiles for life. You might think your baby is too young to visit Dr. Martirosyan, our expert in kids dental care in Glendale, but the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that babies have their first dental checkup by the time their first tooth erupts, or they reach 12 months of age. This helps them become familiar with dental care. You also need to clean their gums and teeth after each feed. Simply wipe them down with a damp washcloth or soft-bristled baby toothbrush.
Glendale Kids Dental Care
As your children get older, they will want to learn to brush their own teeth. Supervise their brushing habits until they demonstrate proper brushing techniques. Dr. Martirosyan, our Glendale kids dental care expert, will work with your children to teach them the proper ways to brush and floss, and will help them learn how to maintain their dental health, so you can reinforce these habits at home. Regular checkups are just as important for your kids as they are for you, and your children should have cleanings and dental exams about every six months.
Other preventive tasks care your children may need can include fluoride treatment and dental sealants. These treatments help reduce the risk of cavities. When your child reaches the age of seven, Dr. Martirosyan, our expert in kids dental care in Glendale, may recommend an orthodontic evaluation. While your child may not need braces this early, an orthodontic evaluation can identify issues that can be addressed early. Call us today to learn more or to schedule your child’s next appointment with Dr. Martirosyan, our kids dentist.