Family Dentistry
Serving Bonnie Doon & Whyte Ave. Area
Family Dentistry at 82 Dental
Did you know? Dentists frequently play a pivotal role in identifying early signs of health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, oral cancers, and osteoporosis. In particular, the strong correlation between smoking and periodontal disease has brought dentists to the front lines of anti-smoking efforts.
Family in Dentistry
As a parent or caregiver, your role extends beyond loving and nurturing your child to ensuring their physical well-being, with oral health being a significant aspect. Here are some guidelines to consider for maintaining your child’s radiant and healthy smile at all ages.
Oral Care for Infants
Even prior to your child’s first tooth emergence, you can start an oral hygiene routine. Dip a soft gauze or an infant washcloth, which is typically thinner and softer, in warm water. Gently cleanse your baby’s gums to eliminate bacteria that accumulates from milk consumption. This practice also helps acclimatize your child to the sensation of oral hygiene activities.
Arrival of the First Tooth
Once your child’s first tooth surfaces, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean it, and continue this with each new tooth as it appears. The dentist can recommend a non-fluoride toothpaste, use a miniscule amount when you brush your child’s teeth.
Book an Appointment Online
Don’t wait another day to prioritize your oral health. Book an appointment with our experienced dental team and take the first step towards a healthier and brighter smile.
Toddler to Tween
Continue to assist your child in brushing and flossing until they can competently and thoroughly do it independently. The age at which a child can do this varies, and often aligns with when your older child can write their name.
When your child develops sufficient dexterity, it’s time for them to assume responsibility for brushing, flossing, and rinsing their teeth. Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day, preferably before bedtime, with a small pea-sized quantity of toothpaste. Encourage flossing once a day; by this stage, they should begin to floss independently. We suggest inspecting their work in the early years.
Tweens & Teens
At this stage, they’re independently brushing and flossing, yet they still need reminders, sometimes constant, to maintain their dental hygiene. One motivation for teens to keep a good oral hygiene routine is understanding the importance of a bright smile and fresh breath.
Caring for primary teeth is crucial because:
- Primary teeth enable children to consume a variety of food groups, hence ensuring nutrition and enjoyment.
- They help shape your child’s face.
- Baby teeth also guide the growth of permanent teeth, which is essential in learning to eat and speak.
- Primary teeth have thinner enamel (the outer, white layer of the tooth) than adult teeth, making them more susceptible to early childhood tooth decay.
- Plaque and tartar build-up can cause gum disease in children.
- Clean teeth are a social norm.
- Establishing an effective homecare routine for kids from early on leads to lifelong benefits including a healthy mouth, confidence, and a beautiful smile.
What Triggers Tooth Decay?
- Sugars (substances ending in “ose”) feed bacteria that excrete acids resulting in decay.
- Insufficient and irregular cleaning of teeth can cause decay, which leads to pain, unsightly discoloration, and bad breath.
- Decay can interfere with your child’s sleep, eating, or speaking abilities and can affect their concentration and learning.
82nd Dental is Your Family Dentist
We always welcome children to our practice and appreciate their enthusiasm and curiosity. This is the ideal age to cultivate a sense of pride in oral hygiene and establishing regular check-us and cleanings as “normal”. Our staff is equipped to communicate with children using accessible language and a friendly, non-threatening approach…while ensuring the visit is enjoyable.
Regular check-ups also enable us to identify and address any issues early on, maintaining your child’s dental health from infancy through to adulthood.
Remember: It’s never too early to introduce your child to a dental clinic, as soon as their milk teeth start to appear bring them along with older family members to dental appointments. Acquainting them with the environment and the dentist from an early age can foster friendly relations before more formal visits when they’re older.
If you are looking for a friendly and welcoming family dentist in Edmonton, reach out to the dental care team at 82nd Dental-we welcome your family!
All dental services performed by a general dentist.
Our Clinic Location
Your Trusted Bonnie Doon Dental
Address: 8104 Whyte Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6C 0Y4
Phone: (780) 468-2811