Parents spend a lot of their time making their children smile, all in efforts to bring the child joy. Protecting this smile should be a top priority, increasing the importance of your child’s first dental visit. Dr. Alan J. Dinkin has helped children achieve good dental health for over 30 years, helping young patients to take care of their teeth as they grow up and become adults. If you’re a parent looking for gentle dental care for your child, call us today.
Growing up with Dentistry
Dental care and habits should be part of growing up. During this experience, children learn about taking care of themselves. Even at one year of age, children are absorbing habits and behaviors of their parents and developing their understanding of themselves. For older kids with fuller smiles, dental care is increasingly important, for their teeth are permanent and become the teeth they will have the rest of their life.
Besides introducing oral care to children, visiting your family dentist will protect them from dental anxiety. Even if they are afraid or can’t sit still, children should be brought to the dentist so they may be acquainted with the tooth cleaning process, and be treated with dental examinations. Dr. Dinkin invites parents to join their children in operatories to help them get through this intimidating process. He also talks gently with your child, explaining every step to parents, and keeping them informed on the progression of tooth development, or any possible health concerns.
Improving your Child’s Habits
Busy parents may need help when teaching their child how to brush and floss, or even just to brush regularly. It’s easy for kids to forget this daily habit, but with a few adjustments, parents can improve their child’s hygiene routine. It’s not only crucial for kids to have regular dental habits daily, but also to have them done properly.
Try out these methods for helping your child:
• Brush and floss with them
• Use a timer (two minutes for brushing)
• Purchase Kid-focused brushes, toothpaste, and floss
• Use apps on a smartphone or tablet
• Introduce a reward system
For more ideas, speak with Dr. Dinkin. He can recommend ways to help your child improve their at-home oral care, and also the best products that support healthy enamel and resist cavities.
Call us for your child’s first appointment or necessary checkup, we’re here to help protect your child's beautiful smile for a lifetime!