Speaking as a parent, it is our responsibility to look after the health and well being of our children. We are all aware of the need for doctor’s appointments for vaccinations and for routine sight and hearing tests in those early years. But what about dental appointments?
The best advice for parents is to attend with their children from a young age. The old adage that ‘prevention is better than cure’ is very true. By getting your child examined by a dentist from an early age (even two years old) you can instil in them the good habit of a lifetime. The dentist can examine the developing teeth and give advice on diet, nutrition, brushing and maintenance.
This also helps to build good relationships for future dental appointments. By attending regularly for check-ups, it decreases the chances of problems in later life.
Teething can be unsettling – both for baby and parent! Usually the first deciduous teeth – or milk teeth – appear at six months, though in some cases in can occur earlier. A gentle brushing to keep a toddler’s teeth clean will help to protect these important first teeth and encourage brushing in later life.
Sleep is often disturbed by teething and there are many products on the market which will aid this difficult time (such as Teetha). Occasionally babies will have sore or inflamed gums, and paediatric Calpon can help for this.
As your child grows, and foodstuffs in diet change, it is important to visit your dentist every six months. This will allow the dentist to assess growth and development and spot any future orthodontic or crowding issues that may occur. This also strengthens and builds the preventive role of attendance and should eliminate any fear.
Remember that we are all born without any cavities, and with the right advice and maintenance we can stay that way!
Paul O’Dwyer is group clinical director of Smiles Dental, one of Ireland’s leading dental groups. Visit www.smiles.ie
