Children are notorious for consuming too much candy, soda, and other sugary treats, but they aren’t generally known for being enthusiastic about oral hygiene. Many oral infections like cavities and gum disease can be virtually impossible for non-professionals to detect when they are in their early stages, so it’s crucial to bring your child to Lifetime Dental of Agawam for routine checkups and cleanings every six months. Here’s a quick look at why these appointments are so important, but please contact our office if you’d like to know more or wish to schedule your child’s next visit.
While it might seem tempting to avoid bringing your child to the dentist until you notice an oral health problem, this can allow infections and other issues to fester until they cause serious damage. Bringing your child to our office in Agawam every six months will allow our dentist to carefully monitor their oral health, address problems in their early stages, and advise you as to better oral hygiene habits for your child to practice at home. These visits can help prevent painful dental emergences and the expense of intensive restorative treatments, so they can be a wise investment in your child’s health as well as a great way to save money in the long run.
During your child’s checkup, our dentist will carefully examine their teeth, gums, and bite alignment as well as any existing restorative devices for signs of trouble. Most routine dental appointments will include X-rays so our skilled team can check for problems inside your child’s oral structures. If we detect any issues, we’ll develop a customized treatment plan designed to restore your child’s oral health while preserving their comfort. We’ll also take the time to answer any questions you have about your child’s treatment or their oral hygiene regimen, and we’ll review and update your child’s medical history as necessary.
Even if your child has immaculate oral hygiene habits, there are still areas of the mouth that are impossible for them to clean on their own. Our dental hygienist will use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar between the teeth and along the gumline to reduce your child’s risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. We’ll also polish your child’s teeth to remove minor surface stains, and we may also administer a fluoride treatment to reinforce your child’s enamel.