Dentistry For Children In Markham – Tips For Parents

Dentistry for children and oral health in Markham is an important part of overall health care, and proper dental care should begin at an early age. As parents, ensure your children receive the necessary dental care to help avoid major oral health problems as they get older.

Regular visits to the dentist can help children get familiar with dental check-ups. This can ensure their teeth stay healthy, starting at an early age. It is important for parents of young children to understand the basics of dentistry for children in Markham and what to look for when selecting a dentist.

Why children need dental care

Preventative measures, such as regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist, are necessary for children to maintain healthy teeth and gums.  If children do not receive regular dental care, they may suffer from tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. 

Dentistry for children in Markham is essential to ensure a lifetime of good oral health. Also, early dental care can help children become familiar with the dentist. They can learn good oral health habits that will last into adulthood. 

A child’s overall physical health can be impacted by poor dental health. This is because plaque buildup and gingivitis can increase the risk of systemic diseases. Therefore, parents should ensure their children have access to quality dental care. This is what dentistry for children is about in Markham.

Tips to make going to the dentist fun for your child

Going to the dentist can be a daunting task for any child. It is therefore important to make it a fun and positive experience. 

  • Start by talking to your child about the importance of dental hygiene and the value of regular checkups. 
  • Offer rewards for good behaviour and make sure to keep appointments short and sweet. 
  • Bring along a favourite toy or book to help keep them busy. 
  • Encourage them throughout the appointment. 
  • Explain the different tools the dentist will be using and create fun stories about them. 
  • Finally, be sure to praise your child for being brave and remind them how proud you are of their good behaviour afterward. 

With these tips, you can make going to the dentist a pleasant experience for your child.

How often should children visit the dentist?

Visiting the dentist regularly is a key component of children’s oral health care. Some parents are unfamiliar with dentistry for children and are unsure of what dental professionals consider appropriate in Markham dental offices. 

Children need to see the dentist at least twice a year. During these visits, the dentist will check for cavities, and other oral health problems, and provide routine cleanings. For children with cavities or other more serious oral health issues, the dental professional may recommend more frequent visits. 

Establishing a good relationship with a dentist early in life can help to ensure that children are comfortable and familiar with their dentist. Regular dental visits can also help parents to identify potential issues earlier and set their children up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

Symptoms of tooth decay in children

Tooth decay is a common dental issue among children, and the cause of this can be a variety of factors. Common signs of tooth decay in children can include:

  • Tooth discolouration.
  • Visible cavities.
  • Pain when eating or drinking.
  • Foul odor from the mouth.
  • Sensitivity to hot and cold foods. 

If you leave these without treatment, the decay can worsen, leading to more serious complications such as toothache, abscess, and eventual tooth loss. 

Parents should monitor their children for signs of tooth decay and schedule regular visits to their dentist for checkups and cleanings. Developing good dental hygiene habits in children is essential to prevent the onset of issues that relate to decay. With early identification and treatment, children can maintain healthy teeth and gums as they grow and develop.

Benefits of using fluoride toothpaste for children

Using fluoride toothpaste for children can provide many beneficial effects on their oral health. 

  • Fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay by strengthening the enamel on the teeth, making it less susceptible to the acids bacteria produces. 
  • Fluoride also helps to remineralize the enamel, restoring areas that are already decaying or getting weak. 
  • It helps to reduce the pain associated with cavities by desensitizing the teeth. 
  • Additionally, the use of fluoride toothpaste can help to prevent plaque build-up, reducing the risk of gum disease. 

All of these benefits make fluoride toothpaste an essential product for protecting a child’s oral health.

10 fun facts about dentistry 

Here are 10 fun facts about dentistry for children in Markham

  1. In 1498, a Chinese innovator created the first toothbrush. 
  2. Animal and vegetable ingredients were used to make the first toothpaste. 
  3. An average person has 32 teeth. 
  4. To get rid of all the plaque and bacteria, the average person brushes their teeth for less than two minutes when they should brush for at least two minutes. 
  5. The average person should visit the dentist in Markham twice a year for check-ups. 
  6. Cavities are caused by bacteria that form on the teeth when we don’t brush and floss. 
  7. Dentists can repair damaged or decayed teeth with fillings and crowns. 
  8. Dental implants can replace missing teeth. 
  9. Throughout a lifetime, your mouth produces about 100,000 gallons of saliva.
  10. Teeth began to form in your gums before you were born.

How can I promote good oral hygiene in my child?

You should teach children good oral hygiene from a young age. Parents should explain to their children why it is important to take care of their teeth and gums. They should also educate the children that they should maintain brushing twice a day for two minutes, flossing, and using mouthwash daily. It can be beneficial to use a timer to ensure two minutes of brushing. Additional tips include: 

  • Regular visits to the dentist 
  • Limiting sugary snacks and drinks 
  • Replacing toothbrushes every three to four months. 

Encouraging healthy habits can help prevent cavities and other dental problems. By keeping a positive attitude and providing education, parents can help their children maintain good oral hygiene.

Dentistry for children in Markham

Regular checkups and proper oral hygiene can help to prevent the need for major procedures in the future. Dental procedures for children may vary depending on their specific needs. Common procedures that pediatric dentists  typically recommend include:

  • Fluoride treatment: this helps to strengthen enamel and protect teeth against cavities. 
  • Dental sealants: they act as a barrier to protect teeth from decay-causing bacteria.
  • Fillings: they use them to restore cavities. 
  • Extractions:  these are used to remove damaged or decayed teeth.

A professional dentist should assess your child’s specific needs to determine if any of these procedures are necessary. Give your child a good foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth with dentistry for children. Pediatric dentists are available at Forestbrook Dental in Markham. It is important to consult a qualified dentist to ensure your child’s dental health.