Advice from the Dental Implant Specialist in Chandler, Arizona: The Importance of Early Dental Care for Your Children

Online, September 26, 2013 (Newswire.com) - As a new parent, or even a second, third or fourth time parent, your life becomes consumed by a love and concern for your precious brood. But many parents make the mistake of focusing solely upon their children's general health and fail to take into account that regular professional dental care is just as important to their development and well-being.

"You should book your child's first dental appointment at the age of one," says an experienced general and dental implant dentist in Chandler, Arizona, Dr. Kevin Gasser. "Even though your child won't have his or her complete set of teeth yet, it pays in the long run to establish a relationship with your child's healthcare professional.

"First of all, getting your child used to receiving dental attention will make it easier for you, for them and for your dentist to provide them with the care they need to maintain an excellent standard of oral health and hygiene. Many children who only see their dentist later on in their young development tend to react poorly," explains the dental implant dentist in Arizona. "If your child is accustomed to the dentist, they'll be far more accepting of treatment. As a parent myself, I know what it is to contend with a crying, screaming child!"

Early dental appointments are also crucial for parents to learn about how to care for their child's developing teeth and how to teach their children to do the same. "Maintaining a dialogue with your dentist about oral care will equip you with the necessary education; it'll also prepare you for the various challenges to come," explains Dr. Gasser. "You send your children to school to learn about life in all its diversity and complexity; going to the dentist teaches your children about the importance of looking after their teeth and this is a lesson that should last them a lifetime."

So, what can one expect from a child's dental appointment?

Childhood Dental Check-Ups

Your child's first appointment with a dentist should take place around the age of one, even if they only have a few teeth peeking out of their gums. "Even though we all get a new set of teeth in our later childhood, the developmental health of your milk teeth sets the stage for your lifelong oral health. Problems during this time can spell problems for your adult teeth," says the dental implant specialist in Chandler. "I know because a major part of my practice is dedicated to replacing decayed and irreparably damaged teeth!"

Your child's early dental appointments will consist of a physical examination after which your dentist will discuss to you in detail what they have noticed and what you can expect in the following months to a year. He or she will also explain to you how you should be caring for your tot's teeth at each stage of their development.

Frequent problems arise when, for example, parents give their child a bedtime bottle to suck overnight. Their teeth and gums are left to bathe in the sugars of their formula or juice, which can lead to decay of their baby teeth. While this makes perfect sense, many parents just don't know any better. "Feed your child before you put them to bed and then gently clean his or her mouth with a moist cloth," advise Arizona implant dentists.

Another common mistake parents make is to allow their babies to suck on pacifiers until well after age 2. The pressure sucking puts on the palate can affect the shape of its development, resulting in maxillofacial anomalies. "Your dentist will be able to determine from an early age whether your kid will have any orthodontic problems and will recommend the appropriate time to take him or her to an orthodontist," says Dr. Gasser.

Here is an approximate time line for your child's dental care:

• First appointment at age 1

• If you get the "all clear", you can bring your child back for their second appointment at age 2.

• From this point onwards, appointments should take place every six months.

• Your child should receive their first set of X-rays between age 4 and 6 to identify any cavities that can't be seen by the naked eye.

• From age 6 to 12, parents should be especially vigilant about maintaining good oral hygiene and teach their children how to brush and floss correctly. Prevention is crucial at this stage, as a child's baby teeth will be giving way to their adult teeth.

• Between the age of 7 and 9, your dentist may opt to place sealants on the biting surfaces of molars that have especially deep cusps to prevent bacteria and food debris from becoming trapped.

Early Orthodontic Evaluation and Treatment

Your child should see the orthodontist around the age of 7 for an evaluation. "An early orthodontic appointment will determine whether your child has any existing or potential problems relating to jawbone development and bite occlusion," explains the dental implant dentist in Chandler. "While orthodontic treatment - such as braces - will likely only begin in their early teens, when all their adult teeth have emerged, you can do much to ensure that your children mature with beautiful teeth by preventing problems, rather than treating them."

Other Crucial Advice

Your child's dental health doesn't only hinge on regular professional attention and home oral hygiene. You'll also need to watch their diet. "Kids love snacking and, of course, they love sugary treats," says Dr. Gasser. "For the sake of their oral and general health, you should get them used to drinking water, not juice and try to encourage healthy meals rather than constant snacking. Last, but not least... if your child is especially resistant to going to the dentist, the promise of a toy always works as a treat. But only if they behave nicely!"

Contact Dr. Kevin Gasser

Gasser Dental Implant Center is conveniently located in Sun City, Arizona, just east of Boswell Hospital.

Kevin L. Gasser, D.D.S.
13000 N. 103rd Avenue, Ste. 76,
Sun City, AZ 85351
Phone: (623) 972-8217
Fax: (623) 972-1406

Dr. Kevin Gasser In Arizona: Operating Hours

Monday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am - 5:00pm

Website: http://www.drgasser.com
Contact number: (623) 972-8217