Whether this school year is your child’s first or last, or somewhere in between, a bright and healthy smile will help them start their year on the right foot. A genuine and confident smile is infectious, and studies show that the more you smile, the more enjoyable your social, professional, and personal life can be. At Lake Orion Family Dentistry, we offer quality care and personalized service even to our smallest patients.
The Importance of Baby Teeth
Your children’s first teeth are important. Although not permanent, your child’s primary teeth affect the development of their permanent teeth. The first set of teeth not only serves as placeholders for adult teeth, they also help your child learn to speak and chew properly. Assist and teach your child to brush and floss their teeth at least twice a day, and acquaint them with the habit of visiting the dentist’s office at least once every six months, or as often as Dr. Greenfield recommends. Cavities in primary teeth should also be filled quickly to prevent the decay from spreading to un-erupted, underlying permanent teeth.
A Clean Bill-of-Health for Your Child’s Teeth
Even with the strictest of oral hygiene routines, there is always a risk of infection or decay settling into your child’s teeth and gums. Like most health issues, oral conditions are more successfully treated the earlier they are addressed. Gum disease, which is the leading cause of adult tooth loss, begins as gingivitis, which is marked by red and swollen gums. Tooth decay, however, can cause extensive damage to your tooth structure before any symptoms become apparent. Be sure to schedule and attend your child’s dental exam and cleaning before the first day of school to avoid oral health issues interfering with studies.
If your children are younger, the oral hygiene habits you teach them now will remain with them throughout life. To learn about proper oral health care for children, browse the tools on our Kid Stuff page, or visit our website for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Greenfield, call Lake Orion Family Dentistry in Lake Orion, Michigan, at (248) 693-6213. We welcome patients from Lake Orion, Oxford, Rochester Hills, Clarkston, and the surrounding communities.
