A healthy smile is important for confidence and self-esteem. The best way to maintain a healthy smile throughout one’s life is by beginning healthy dental habits early in childhood. By developing these habits, and maintaining young teeth, adults will have an easier time maintaining their beautiful, healthy smile. It is the role of parent to ensure their child begins learning these habits at an early age. Pediatric Dentistry in Smyrna TN can help with this.
The importance of baby teeth
Although baby teeth are lost early in life to make room for permanent teeth, they are still important for a child’s development. They are necessary for chewing and eating a proper diet that is necessary for early growth. They are also necessary for early speech development. The main role of baby teeth is to maintain the room for adult teeth to grow in properly. Damaged or decaying baby teeth can also have an impact on a child’s early social experiences.
Early dental care
It is recommended that a child see a dentist when their first tooth erupts and no later than two years old. At this appointment, the dentist can check the child’s tooth or teeth and inspect the mouth area for any problems. The most important factor of this visit, however, is to allow the child to gain comfort and familiarity with these visits. Pediatric Dentistry in Smyrna TN can provide a safe and comfortable atmosphere for the child to begin their regular dental visits without anxiety.
Proper oral hygiene
It is also important to begin a brushing routine early in the child’s life. This can even begin before the child has any teeth. At bath time, a parent can use a soft cloth to wipe the baby’s gums at an early age. This can help the child learn this habit and become familiar with oral hygiene very early. As teeth begin to erupt, a soft brush can be used to gently brush the teeth at regular times. Continuing this habit throughout their young lives can in-still habits that last a lifetime.
Proper dental care is necessary to maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. Instilling proper oral hygiene habits and comfort at the dentist can ensure a child maintains their teeth throughout their life. Facilities, such as Ascent Dental, can provide the care and education needed to ensure these habits remain.
