Pediatric Dentist in Wheaton, IL
At 20/32 Dental Co., our dentist and team offer pediatric care for our Wheaton patients. With regular check-ups and cleanings, we can help to ensure healthy and happy smiles. The American Dental Association recommends for all patients to have routine six-month check-up exams. This is particularly important for children, who should begin dental visits within six months after the presence of the first tooth.
At your visit, we will screen your child’s mouth for tooth decay and gum disease. Regular professional dental cleanings are essential for a healthy mouth because the dentist can catch the early signs of problems. During your child’s dental cleaning, we will gently remove any buildup of plaque or tartar.
How important is it to keep baby teeth healthy?
If our kids are just going to lose their baby teeth in a few years anyway, does it really matter if they get cavities? A lot of parents think this way, but that’s something we strongly discourage. Just because baby teeth are temporary doesn’t mean they’re not important. Baby teeth are essential for chewing food, learning to speak clearly, and mastering lifelong dental health habits like brushing and flossing. They also guide the adult teeth into place. Your child will also be happier if their teeth are healthy.
When is the right time for a child’s first dental appointment?
A child can benefit from a dentist as soon as their first tooth appears! That’s why we, along with the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, recommend bringing them to see us around six months old (and no later than their first birthday). The earlier you bring them in, the more advice we can offer on taking care of incoming baby teeth and managing those difficult teething periods.
Treatments
We may also recommend dental sealants for your child. Sealants protect against tooth decay and cavities on your child’s molars. Molars are the most susceptible to cavities and receive the least benefit from topical fluoride. The dentist applies sealants to the chewing surfaces of back teeth and are highly effective in preventing tooth decay. Fluoride may be applied to the teeth as well. Topical fluoride is used to strengthen enamel and make teeth more resistant to tooth decay.
Without proper dental care, children are susceptible to oral decay. Healthy smiles should not stop at our dental office. The dentist and our team will educate you and your child on how to make good food choices and how to properly brush and floss at home.
Fluoride: Fluoride is effective in preventing cavities and tooth decay by coating teeth and preventing plaque from building up and hardening on the tooth’s surface. It also gives the teeth more building blocks for keeping the tooth enamel strong.
Sealants: Dental sealants are plastic resins that bond and harden in the deep grooves on the tooth’s surface. When a tooth is sealed, the tiny grooves become smooth and are less likely to harbor plaque. With sealants, brushing becomes easier and more effective against tooth decay.
20/32 Dental Co. and Your Child’s Smile
The entire team here at 20/32 Dental Co. in Wheaton, IL is committed to providing an anxiety-free dental experience. We love serving our local community and we would love to serve you. Please give us a call if you’re interested in a free dental consultation. Check out our business site to learn more about us and make sure to get directions before you head our way.
Contact our office for more information
At 20/32 Dental Co., our knowledgeable team has the experience and qualifications to care for your child’s teeth, gums and mouth throughout various stages of childhood.
