How To Know When To Take Your Child To The Dentist

August 11, 2021


How To Know When To Take Your Child To The Dentist
Baby boy smiling
Chairside dental treatment with handpieces and suction

Several parents put off having their children's teeth checked until it is too late, and they may be missing out on critical early treatment if they do not take them to the dentist. When you have a child, it's natural to want to make sure they're healthy. Ready to take your child to the dentist? A child's behavior is an indication that it might be time to visit the dentist.


The dentist Doesn't Have To Be Scary


Unfortuanlerty, too many people are scared to visit the dentist because of horror stories relating to drills and extractions, etc. Not only is this fear unfounded in most cases, but it also discourages you and your children from visiting the dentist for dental care. This can be detrimental to their oral hygiene if problems are left untreated. Fortunately, these days, technology has rendered most of the old-fashioned fears obsolete. Pioneers of laser dentistry MN in Minnesota use laser technology to do away with the past's scary drills and painful anesthetic injections. This is great because you can more easily convince your child to go to the dentist using this laser system. Additionally, you can make it an exciting experience. Most dentists are happy to indulge your child by explaining to them about all of the incredible technology they will use to keep their teeth in fine fettle.


When Should Your Child Visit The Dentist?


Now that you know how to convince them to go to the dentist when they need it, you may want to know a few warning signs that they need to have their teeth checked.


Persistent Sore Throat Or Pain While Eating


Persistent sore throat or pain while eating can be a sign of painful teeth, and in this case, your child should have their teeth inspected by a dentist. Pain originates from the roots of the teeth, which are located in the bone and gums. If left untreated, this will cause further complications, such as tooth loss and infection. You will be able to see this immediately as your child will be acting differently than usual. You must try to get them to eat something, but it is better to take them to the dentist to see what is wrong.


Long-Lasting Toothache Or Sensitivity To Hot And Cold Temperatures


A toothache occurs when the teeth are sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, and dull pain in the teeth characterizes it. Various factors can cause toothache, such as cavities, tooth decay, dry sockets, teeth grinding, or clenching while sleeping. The exposed nerves bring on tooth sensitivity in the tooth, which is sensitive to temperature levels. Some of the signs that you may have a toothache include:

 

• Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
• Sharp pain when chewing on certain foods.
• An increased sensitivity to touch around your teeth.


Difficulty Swallowing Food And Drinks


A toothache can cause many pain and discomfort, making it difficult to eat, drink, and even speak. In general, toothaches are characterized by pain. Pain is usually the first symptom of a toothache, but the intensity varies from person to person. Some people may only feel a mild ache, while others may experience extreme pain that is enough to make them sick or unable to sleep at night. Other symptoms include:


• Sensitive teeth.
• Difficulty eating.
• Cheek swelling.
• Fluid build-up inside the cheeks or throat.

 

Your child is not eating properly because of pain or you notice any visual signs of a problem tooth, you should book an appointment as soon as possible. If you leave it, there is a high chance that things will get far worse, and the pain will increase over time.

 

Bad Breath


There are different causes of bad breath, such as decayed teeth or food stuck between the teeth. It may also stem from a respiratory tract infection or other medical condition. In some cases, it may even occur as a side effect of certain medications prescribed to control diabetes or heart disease. In order to determine the cause of bad breath in your child, it is vital to have it checked by a dentist who will examine them for any physical problems that may contribute to it.


How To Keep Your Child's Teeth Healthy?


While it is essential to understand some of the warning signs that might require a trip to the dentist, the best cure is often prevention. Therefore, what can you do to help your child take better care of their teeth?


Brush Teeth Twice Per Day


Among professionals, this is the advice they most commonly give. There are several benefits your child will gain from brushing their teeth twice a day, and they include:


• Teeth get cleaner and healthier by removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria.
• Strengthens tooth enamel which reduces the risk of tooth decay.
• Maintains healthy gums.
• Ensures that food particles are removed so that bad breath is discouraged and decay is kept at bay.
• If your child has braces or dentures, it's an essential part of maintaining them in good health.

 

If you set up a routine, your child will end up brushing their teeth without supervision. Nonetheless, it would help if you teach them the correct way when they are starting.


Eat Healthy Foods And Drink Plenty Of Water


Your eating and drinking habits heavily influence oral health. Children tend to head directly for the sugary candy and beverages, which is bad for their teeth and their overall health. You should teach them the importance of eating natural foods and drinking water rather than soft drinks. The more you remind them, the more they understand, even though it is often easier said than done. However, it would help if you kept grinding away at it as the more you bother them, the more they will remember it.

 

Frequent trips to the dentist are an essential part of maintaining oral health for children. Unfortunately, many times parents are unsure when to take their children to the dentist. While some children are typically seen at an early age, others should be seen at the dentist at specific periods in their lives.

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