Ensure Proper Oral Heath with Regular Dental Visits
In order to take care of oral health, it’s important to visit the dentist on a regular basis. Unfortunately, however, many Americans wait an average of 3 years between dental appointments. During this time, a variety of issues can emerge, such as tooth decay, untreated cavities, and other issues that can have an adverse effect on overall health.
Untreated Cavities in Children and Young Adults
Tooth decay is all too common within the United States. It has been found to be even more prevalent than both diabetes and childhood asthma. Since many people, including children, don’t visit the dentist on a regular basis, tooth decay and other issues are being left untreated.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that 19% of children and young adults between the ages of 2 to 19 have untreated cavities. By the time they’re in kindergarten, over 40% of children will have cavities. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research indicated that 42% of children between the ages of 2 to 11 will have these cavities in their primary teeth.
Children and Dental Injuries
Approximately 10% to 39% of dental injuries are caused by children playing sports, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). Some of the more common injuries include chipped and broken teeth. Whether they’re skateboarding, bike riding, or playing ball, these types of injuries do occur. Many of these injuries could be prevented by wearing a helmet and other appropriate protective gear.
Cosmetic dentistry procedures can, of course, address these injuries. If a baby tooth is broken, for example, then a dentist may recommend a tooth extraction. When an adult tooth is chipped, however, a dentist may recommend a dental crown.
Proper Oral Hygiene for Children and Adults
Experts recommend that children, as well as adults, should brush their teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes. When children are between the ages of 4 and 5, parents can assist them with brushing. As they become older and learn how to brush their teeth by themselves, it’s still important to provide parental supervision until they are 7 or 8 years of age.
When to Visit the Family Dentist
In addition to regular dental visits, children should be taken to the dentist when they experience dental pain. When children have poor oral health, it’s not unusual for them to also have untreated cavities or other issues that are causing them pain. These children are 3 times more likely to be absent from school as a result. Furthermore, this type of pain can also affect their ability to focus on their lessons and other activities.
