According to the National Oral Health Plan untreated decay is still prevalent in children in Australia. However, children that visit an oral health practitioner at least once a year are significantly less likely to require extractions or filings.
By the age of 12 most children have already lost their baby teeth. This means that the teeth a 12-year-old has are the ones they will have for the rest of their lives. Unfortunately it is at this age that children become less likely to visit the dental practitioner annually.
If you have a child between the ages of 2 and 17 be sure to schedule regular visits to the dentist. Consider the following advantages of a regular check-up.
Long-Term Health
The younger a child is when they start going to the dentist, the more likely they will have healthier mouths throughout their lives. A young child can be taught appropriate techniques for keeping their teeth free of decay. In many cases, tooth decay can be prevented. This will prevent pain and other medical issues in the long-term.
Good Habits
By teaching your child to start practicing excellent oral hygiene at a young age you will be introducing good habits for life. Not only does this mean teaching them to brush and floss regularly but also to visit the dentist on an annual or more frequent basis. Children who are in the habit of regular dentist check-ups will continue this habit into adulthood and therefore avoid tooth decay and other more serious dental issues.
Reduce Anxiety
Children who visit the dentist regularly learn that the experience is not anxiety provoking. They are less likely to have dental issues requiring potentially painful procedures. They also gain confidence in their ability to properly take care of their teeth at home reducing anxiety that an issue will be identified when they are having a check-up.
If you are the parent of a child between the ages of 2 and 17 consider the importance of children’s dentistry.
Contact us and schedule an appointment today. You will be making the first step in ensuring your child has healthy teeth for the rest of their lives.