5 benefits of early childhood trips to the dentist

While it is a bit of a generalisation, it is an almost universal fact that children dislike having to undertake a dental check-up, despite the fact it is known to be important in maintaining oral health for children.

Parents across the UK are often less than eager to tell their children that it’s time for a dental visit, but, while it can seem like a pain to have to take your rambunctious toddler for an oral check-up, it is more important in early childhood than at any other time.

Indeed, innumerable studies have found a direct link between early dental visits and better oral health as adults; in other words, if you introduce your children to your dentist Sydney as early as possible, the more likely they are to recognise the importance of dental health in their adult life.

What are some of the other reasons for getting your child to visit the dentist from 12 months of age?

Advice

If you are a first-time parent, there is advice that your child’s dentist from Sydney can offer you in relation to keeping their oral health in good shape.

For instance, many dental professionals advise parents to remove a juice or milk bottle from their child’s mouths as soon as they fall asleep, to prevent the sugar in the juice and the lactose in the milk from causing cavities.

Similarly, if your child sucks a pacifier, your child dental team can offer you tips on how to wean them away from it, to prevent their teeth from developing at odd angles.

Correct brushing technique

As adults, it is easy to forget how tough it is to learn how to brush your teeth correctly.

Once again, a visit to a medical professional who specializes in general dentistry can help show your child how to clean each tooth in their mouth, using an oversized tooth and brush.

Orthodontic identification

Another advantage of visiting dental surgeries early in life is that it allows dental professionals to assess for potential orthodontic issues.

While most children will visit an orthodontist by the time they are 7, earlier detection of orthodontic issues can mean less invasive treatments in the future.

Reduces phobias

As mentioned briefly earlier, there has been a link found time and time again between check-ups early in life and better oral health in adulthood.

While there may be a myriad of reasons for this, experts often put it down to children being aware of how to manage their oral health from a younger age and the familiarity of the entire routine.

It is a traumatising experience having teeth removed by an unknown medical professional, so exposing your child to dental surgeries earlier in life equips them with the tools they will need to maintain good oral health throughout life.

Higher confidence

Better oral health equates to better confidence in childhood and beyond, creating a lifetime of beautiful smiles from your child. What’s not to like about that?

DISCLAIMER

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.