Good oral health is key to living a long and healthy life.
This might seem like a bit of a stretch, but history and the medical field would beg to differ. Key studies have shown that good oral health is closely linked to better physical wellness and mental well-being. Periodontal disease, missing teeth, and root canals can all contribute to long-term health conditions that impact you years down the road. When you want to give your children the best possible chance at a prosperous life, you reach out to your pediatric dental office. They’ll not just check your children’s teeth, they’ll help them learn how to help themselves.
Many Americans today are slogging through poor oral health. Learn more about what goes into a beautiful smile below.
Your Children Need A Strong, Healthy Foundation As Early As Possible
It’s best to develop good oral health habits early. Good habits are just as hard to break as bad ones, after all, and these will go a long way in creating the bright future they deserve. According to recent data nearly 20% of today’s children have untreated dental cavities — this is even higher for adults at around 30%, making this one of the most common health problems around. An untreated cavity can cause sensitivity and aching over time. Left to its devices it can turn into a root canal, a very painful condition that requires medical attention.
Even Adults Will Fall Back On Poor Oral Health Habits
It’s not just children who need to learn how to take care of their teeth. Many adults today either don’t follow good oral habits or are too inconsistent, leaving their health in flux. More than one out of four adults in the United States has untreated tooth decay, right alongside another 45% over the age of 30 also having gum disease. Brushing and flossing should be done every day (with many dentists recommending twice a day). Children can learn to take care of their teeth through fun games and challenges.
Gum Disease Is A More Serious Issue Than You Think
Does your child complain of sensitive gums or bleeding while brushing? It’s best to talk to your pediatric dental office now and get that looked at. Less than 60% of people with gum disease even know they have the condition because early symptoms are very easy to miss. Common signs include (but aren’t limited to) bleeding gums, sensitivity to cold, sensitivity to pressure, receding gum lines, and excess plaque build-up. General maintenance goes a long way to reduce this.
Daily Maintenance Is Better Than Last-Minute Teeth Cleanings
The only thing better than dental care services is day-to-day maintenance. Children can start brushing their teeth as soon as they’re visible, though you should talk to your dentist about which kind of toothpaste to use. Flossing is essential to remove stuck food and bacteria between gums, not just between teeth. The AAPD recommends children see a pediatric dental office every six months for regular check-ups. These include a general exam, a teeth cleaning session, fluoride treatment, x-rays, and consultation.
Pediatric Dental Offices Can Spot What Slips Through The Cracks
Even if your children are brushing and flossing regularly, the best Arizona dental offices should still be seen. That’s because some issues slip right between the cracks, waiting to announce themselves when you need it least. Oral cancers are found to be common in older adults, particularly those older than 55 who smoke and drink heavily. Rinsing is a useful addition to an oral health regimen that can go the extra mile to keep many issues at bay. Little by little, your children will build the skills needed to keep smiling year-round.
Embrace the art of oral health. Talk to your pediatric dentist about a teeth cleaning session this month and set your child up for life.
