Your child should be naturally proud of his or her smile. It expresses joy, laughter, and fun! To make sure your child has a healthy and appealing smile, start early. Really early.
Dr. Allan Acton recommends a child’s first dental visit when their first tooth erupts. An early check is the first step in preventing problems and setting the stage for lifelong dental health. Dr. Acton will keep the visit short, but carry out a thorough visual examination to make sure there are no concerns.
Dr. Acton will counsel you on good dental procedures at home, such as correct brushing and flossing. You will also be guided regarding healthy eating choices and the consequences of poor choices. It is especially vital to keep your toddler from eating sticky or hard candies that lodge in molars and spaces between teeth. It is also important to monitor the amount of juice they drink and keep it in a cup instead of a bottle.
Any time sugary foods or drinks are in contact with teeth, the enamel is weakened from the acid those substances contain. Prolonged exposure begins to wear the enamel away, setting the stage for cavities. Unlike broken bones that regenerate, once enamel is gone, it’s essentially gone, though fluoride can remineralize weakened enamel to a small degree.
Promoting a healthy, low-sugar diet is always optimal for your toddler’s teeth. If your baby or toddler needs a bottle to calm down and go to sleep, make sure that the bottle contains only water.
Other vital habits are to brush and floss your teeth in front of your child. (If you have never been regular flossing – it’s time to start!) Let them see that it is a priority and a comfortable habit in your life. Brush their teeth with a soft-bristled brush and a small amount of toothpaste. Let them try it, but always go over their teeth afterward, making sure each tooth is brushed. When finished, give them a cup of water to help rinse the toothpaste out.
Before coming to Cary Family Dental, speak with your child about the upcoming appointment and let them know that their teeth are going to be checked. Dr. Acton will help your child feel proud of their effort and help them have a favorable visit, the first of many to come.
Remember also to call any time between scheduled visits with any questions or concerns that might arise. We are enthusiastic about your child’s lifelong dental health.
Acton serves many families in the Raleigh area with ability and compassion. At Cary Family Dental, we love working with children and will help your child have a pleasing experience learning to care for their teeth.
Each member of our welcoming team is enthusiastic about making our youngest patients feel safe and comfortable. Our patients enjoy the friendly atmosphere while benefitting from our state-of-the-art technology.
Committed to Making You Smile
Contact Cary Family Dental:
919-371-4428
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
915 Kildaire Farm Rd
Cary, North Carolina
27511
