The American Dental Association (ADA) advises that all children receive a professional teeth cleaning and examination twice every year. With their training and advanced instrumentation, dental professionals are able to remove plaque and tarter that even grown-up patients can’t eliminate themselves. Plaque and tarter cause tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease, that can cause pain, and even tooth loss. Children are especially cavity prone. Dental caries is actually the most prevalent chronic illness among children in the United States. In fact, it is five times more common than asthma. Moreover, about 25% of kids develop at least one cavity by the time they turn five-years-old. Dental problems can severely impact the quality of a child’s life. Dental issues are the most common reason children miss school. In addition, poor oral health has also been associated with poor academic performance.

Despite the fact that baby teeth will eventually fall out to be replaced by permanent teeth, they are still important in helping children speak and eat properly. Also, cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues are painful. In addition, left untreated, such dental problems can cause significant health problems, including bacterial infections and malnutrition. For a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums, dental care should begin early. Parents should even use a damp washcloth to clean the gums of babies who do not have teeth after they eat or drink.

At Kids Dental the entire staff, from those who greet young patients as they enter the practice to the expert team of hygienists and dentists who perform treatments, know how to put child at ease.