This is a critical period in your child’s life where they really start playing sports, getting into other activities, and maybe even making a few friends that will last a lifetime.
Even though this is a very busy period in your child’s life, you still need to make sure that they are taking proper care of their teeth and gums, as well as visiting a pediatric dentist twice per year.
Here are a few tips that we have for ensuring your kids take care of their teeth and gums while enjoying the joys of elementary school and all that comes along with it:
Parents Should Still Supervise Brushing and Flossing
While 10-11 year olds can likely handle their own dental hygiene, it’s still important that parents supervise children ages 6-9 as they brush their teeth and floss. Your child may love to take care of their teeth (some children do), or they may think it’s something annoying that gets in their way of having fun.
Either way, parents should supervise to ensure they are not only brushing twice a day and flossing, but doing it correctly. Remember, your child should floss once per day, and brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes!
Ask Us About Dental Sealants
During these years, your child will develop most, if not all of their permanent teeth. It’s very important to take care of permanent teeth during these early years, and one way that we do that at Children’s Dental Zone is by protecting the teeth with dental sealants.
We’ll probably mention dental sealants to you first (as they are a great line of defense against cavities), but if we don’t, make sure to mention it your pediatric dentist and hygienist.
We Really Recommend You Invest in a Sports Mouthguard
The days of going to the store down the street and getting a boil and bite mouthguard off of the rack are over. Sure, those are better than no protection at all, but is that really what you want your child to be wearing when they get hit square in the mouth with a soccer ball, basketball, or even a baseball.
At Children’s Dental Zone we highly recommend that you invest in a custom mouthguard for your child, and will be happy to point you in the right direction. While these mouthguards aren’t cheap, they are very affordable when you consider what your medical bills might be if their teeth aren’t adequately protected!
Your Child Should Have their First Orthodontic Evaluation Around Age 7
Many parents think that if their child’s teeth seem to be coming in straight, then a trip to the orthodontist isn’t necessary, and that can be a mistake.
Sure, there are obvious cases where a child needs orthodontic care, but the American Association of Orthodontists recommend that a child get their first orthodontic evaluation around the age of 7.
Sometimes the problems aren’t so obvious, and minor, less expensive treatment at an early age can keep you from having bigger orthodontic bills down the road.