Did you know that more than one-half of all children aged 5-9 years have at least one cavity or filling in their smile? If this condition is left undiagnosed, it can ultimately harm your child, as a painful tooth or chronic dental problem can lead to difficulty in eating, speaking and concentrating.
It is important to understand that children with chronic dental pain may not always tell you what is happening to them. You might only notice that they appear anxious, depressed or tired, and even their teachers may not recognize their pain. Untreated dental problems can even end up causing many children to miss school.
Our dentists, Dr. Jessie Hunter and Dr. Karen Coe, practicing in Allen, Texas, are happy to help you decide how often your child should be seen for dental checkups. We will look at the following to help make this assessment:
— Your child’s eating habits.
— How well your child’s teeth are maintained.
— Any past treatment your child has received and what their current needs are.
— Whether your child drinks fluoridated water.
— Any factors that may indicate susceptibility to oral diseases.
Oral health truly begins in the home. While children can usually begin brushing their own teeth by the time they are seven years old, they usually need supervising until they are around 10-11 years old. We advise flossing your child’s teeth until they are around ten years old, as flossing is a skill that takes longer to master.
In addition to healthy home habits, periodic dental cleanings will help your child achieve healthy, confident smiles. Please call our Allen Pediatric Dentistry team in Allen, Texas at 972-535-8169 to schedule your child’s appointment with Dr. Jessie Hunter and Dr. Karen Coe. We know how important your child’s smile is for optimal health!