Getting dental care for your kids is an important part of setting them up for a lifetime of oral health. In order to ensure that you get the proper type of dental care for your kids it is important to understand what they need. Some of the care kids need is the same as adults but there are elements of dental care that are unique to kids who are growing and changing.

Routine cleanings

Routine dental cleanings are an important part of proper oral care for kids. These cleanings should happen at least twice per year – the same as with adults. During routine cleanings any plaque, tartar, or other buildup on your child’s teeth will be removed. This will help protect against decay and gum problems. Your child will also learn about properly cleaning and caring for his or her teeth during routine dental visits. Another benefit of these visits is that your child will get in the habit of going to the dentist twice per year. Starting early with this important habit can impact your child’s oral health throughout life.

Treatment for cavities

It is not uncommon for children to get cavities. Part of getting your kids the dental care they need is making sure they get treatment for any cavities that develop. Routine dental visits will allow your child’s dentist to notice signs of cavities before the decay can do too much damage to the tooth. Decay is a progressive issue that will not go away on its own. The only way to protect your child’s teeth from the damage of decay is to get prompt treatment for cavities.

Monitoring of changes

Another important part of getting your kids the dental care they need is monitoring for changes. Things can change quickly inside the mouth of a growing child. As your child has teeth grow in it is important to have them looked at by the dentist relatively quickly. This is important when your child has baby teeth and when the permanent teeth start to grow in. The dentist will look for signs of issues that may need further attention. Examples of issues that can be caught early are problems with bite and crooked teeth. If your child needs specialized help your dentist can make a recommendation so you can get intervention early on.

Getting your kids to the dentist regularly will help prevent issues related to plaque and tartar buildup. Routine cleanings are an important part of protecting your child’s oral health and developing good habits. They will also allow you to get them treatment for cavities and referrals to specialists when needed. All of these elements work together to provide your kids with the dental care they need.