The habits we develop as children often establish our behaviors as adults. If dental hygiene is a priority early in life, there is a better chance that your long-term oral health will be preserved.
While prevention at home is essential to guaranteeing quality of life, it’s also important to form a working relationship with a dentist you and your child can trust. At the office of Dr. Mary Spencer, we pride ourselves on providing patients of all ages with quality dental care in a comfortable environment, and it all starts with that first appointment.
You and Your Child’s Oral Health Development
Children typically base their reactions on those of their parents. This idea extends not only to oral hygiene routines, but to a child’s mood before their dental appointment. It’s important to maintain a positive attitude around your children before and during appointments with the dentist office.
If you are nervous about your child’s appointment, try your best not to let this mood affect theirs. You should treat your child’s first or latest dental visit like the special event it is; after all, your trusted dentist wants to help your child develop and maintain a healthy smile. Through preventive education in a relaxing environment, your child will learn to enjoy taking care of their teeth and gums.
One thing to keep in mind when considering the importance of oral health is the oral-systemic connection. Your smile more often than not reflects your overall wellbeing. A bright and healthy smile typically indicates positive habits and upkeep. When issues such as gum disease develop, your entire health, not just your smile, is at risk. Gum disease and health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease tend to complicate each other and compromise your overall wellbeing.
The Value of Prevention
The earlier your child sees a dentist, the more likely their oral health can be preserved. Your family dentist will be able to monitor their development and diagnose issues as they arise. If your child needs help with hard to reach areas of their smile, beneficial solutions such as sealants can be added to their treatment plan and protect their smile from cavities.
While many effective dental treatments can correct a variety of unique concerns, prevention is still the most reliable tool in dentistry. Preventing cavities and gum disease can save you both time and money while preserving your long-term health. With a trusted dentist as your partner in oral health, you can ensure the health and beauty of your child’s smile.
Dr. Mary Spencer helps patients of all ages improve and maintain their beautiful smiles. For more information on our pediatric services in Chula Vista or to schedule a consultation, call our office in today!