This February is Children’s Dental Health Month. And at Hutta & Cook Orthodontics, we’re celebrating the importance of healthy smiles all month long!
No matter how old your child is, dental health is so important. During orthodontic treatment, it can be difficult for your child to brush and floss effectively. Since food is easily stuck in brackets and wires, practicing good oral hygiene is essential to avoid cavities, tooth decay, and discoloration.
This month, help your child establish good dental habits. Here are Dr. Hutta and Dr. Cook’s top tips for healthy smiles:
- Take your child to the dentist twice a year. Up to 20% of children suffer from undiagnosed tooth decay. Don’t let your child be one of them! Regular dental appointments remove cavity-causing plaque and tartar, promote healthy gums, and help keep smiles in check. For young children with baby teeth, this is especially important as poor dental health can lead to premature tooth loss, misaligned adult teeth, and more intensive orthodontic treatment. So, whether your child is just beginning Phase 1 treatment or if he or she is braces free, book biannual dental appointments. A healthy smile is always worth it!
- Set a good example. When it comes to dental health, lead by example! Brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit the dentist twice a year. Your child is far more likely to practice good oral health habits if he or she knows that you practice them, too. Plus, by keeping your oral health in check, you’ll improve your whole-body health and enjoy your most beautiful smile!
- Schedule an appointment with our orthodontists. Orthodontists do more than just straighten smiles! Orthodontic treatment can help improve dental health, make it easier to brush and floss effectively, and properly align your child’s bite. In short, braces set up your child for a healthier future! The American Association of Orthodontists recommends your child sees an orthodontist at age 7, unless you or your dentist notices something that needs more immediate attention. Though 7 years old may seem young for braces, early intervention is a great option for many patients. With early treatment, Dr. Hutta & Dr. Cook can prevent future problems from developing, reduce the need for extractions, and set your child up for a more comfortable and effective process.
We hope these tips help you keep your child’s smile healthy! For more ideas about children’s dental health, or to book an appointment with our experts, please give us a call. Our team at Hutta & Cook Orthodontics looks forward to speaking with you soon.