When it comes to children’s dentistry in McKinney, there is much information that most parents are unaware of. Even if you consider yourself to be a proactive parent who is diligent about helping your little one take better care of their smile, you’re likely missing some key points. Fortunately, Dr. Justin and Dr. Sage are here to impart some additional wisdom by providing 3 unique facts about your child’s oral health that can make a big difference when it comes to their future smile.
Academic Performance Can Be Impacted By Poor Oral Health
It is estimated that more than 51 million school hours are lost each year because children experience oral health problems. When a toothache occurs or one is knocked out during a game of football or baseball, a pediatric dentist in McKinney must examine the problem and provide appropriate treatment. Because many of these appointments occur during the daytime, children must miss valuable classroom instruction that can impact their academic performance. If oral health issues are left untreated, additional pain can form, causing your child to no longer focus on schoolwork. Not to mention, they may feel more self-conscious if they have decayed or damaged teeth or bad breath. Scheduling regular dental checkups and cleanings can help to minimize potential problems by catching them early on.
Sports Are a Leading Cause of Dental Accidents
If your child is an avid athlete, you’ll want to make sure they’re outfitted with all the necessary equipment, right? If a customized mouthguard isn’t on your list, add it now. Knocked-out, chipped, and broken teeth are not uncommon in youth sports. Neither are soft tissue injuries. Fortunately, with the help of your child’s pediatric dentist and a skilled lab technician, an oral device can be created to offer maximum support and protection while on the field, court, or track. By having your child wear a custom-made mouthguard, you can rest easier knowing they’re less likely to sustain a mouth injury that results in a trip to the emergency dental office in McKinney.
Cavities Don’t Have to Be “Normal”
Although it is not uncommon for young smiles to develop cavities early on, it doesn’t have to be the “norm.” There are things you and your child can do to minimize their risk and keep their teeth free of any harmful bacteria and acid that may try to eat away at their tooth enamel. Some of these include:
- Making sure your child consumes fluoridated water regularly
- Use fluoride toothpaste when brushing their teeth
- Ask the pediatric dentist about topical fluoride treatments to help strengthen tooth enamel and combat decay
Now that you know more about your child’s oral health, it’s time to consider ways you can establish protective and preventive measures. Minimizing decay, disease, and damage are key, so don’t hesitate to discuss further with their pediatric dentist if you need assistance.
About the Authors
At Sprout Dentistry for Kids, Dr. Justin Chan and Dr. Sage Yoo are board-certified pediatric dentists who are fathers first. Realizing most parents want to do the right thing by keeping their children on a regular six-month schedule for dental checkups and cleanings, we strive to provide additional insight on ways parents and children can be more proactive at home when it comes to oral health. Visit our website or call (469) 294-8217 if you want to learn more about children’s dentistry and what you can do to minimize the risk for serious dental problems in the future.