Your child should be naturally proud of his or her smile. It expresses joy, laughter, and fun! To make sure your child has a healthy and attractive smile, start early. Really early.
Doctor Stuart Youmans recommends a child’s first dental visit when their first tooth erupts. An early check is the first step in preventing problems and setting the stage for lifelong dental health. Doctor Youmans will keep the visit short, but perform a thorough visual examination to make sure there are no concerns.
Doctor Youmans will advise you on good dental procedures at home, such as correct brushing and flossing. You will also be guided regarding healthy eating choices and the effects of poor choices. It is especially vital to keep your toddler from eating sticky or hard candies that lodge in molars and spaces between teeth. It is also important to monitor the amount of juice they drink and keep it in a cup instead of a bottle.
Any time sugary foods or drinks are in contact with teeth, the enamel is weakened from the acid those substances contain. Prolonged exposure begins to wear the enamel away, setting the stage for cavities. Unlike broken bones that regenerate, once enamel is gone, it’s essentially gone, though fluoride can remineralize weakened enamel to a small degree.
Promoting a healthy, low-sugar diet is always prime for your toddler’s teeth. If your baby or toddler needs a bottle to calm down and go to sleep, make sure that the bottle contains only water.
Other vital habits are to brush and floss your teeth in front of your child. (If you have never been regular flossing – it’s time to start!) Let them see that it is a priority and a comfortable habit in your life. Brush their teeth with a soft-bristled brush and a small amount of toothpaste. Let them try it, but always go over their teeth afterward, making sure each tooth is brushed. When finished, give them a cup of water to help rinse the toothpaste out.
Before coming to Aspen Ridge Dental, communicate with your child about the upcoming appointment and let them know that their teeth are going to be checked. Dr. Youmans will help your child feel proud of their effort and help them have a favorable visit, the first of many to come.
Remember also to call any time between scheduled visits with any questions or concerns that might arise. We are enthusiastic about your child’s lifelong dental health.
Youmans serves many families in the Casper area with ability and compassion. At Aspen Ridge Dental, we love working with children and will help your child have a favorable experience learning to care for their teeth.
Each member of our caring team is committed to making our youngest patients feel safe and comfortable. Our patients enjoy the friendly atmosphere while benefitting from our state-of-the-art technology.
Where Beautiful Smiles Are Created
Contact Aspen Ridge Dental:
307-234-6054
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1122 S Conwell St
Casper, Wyoming
82601
