When you have children, you want what’s best for them. The best food, the best education and of course, the best healthcare. While many parents assume that childhood dentistry is no different from adult dentistry, there are many differences. One obvious difference is that children have 2 sets of teeth that require attention; their baby teeth and their adult teeth which are forming under their gum line. You will want to ensure that any dental professional you choose for your child is experienced in both preventive treatments and diagnostics.
So whether you are new to the city of London, or have just welcomed a new addition to your family, here are a few things to look for in a children’s dentist in W1.
Fluoride applications
When your child has their full set of baby teeth, it is important that they attend a dentist in W1.
Baby teeth, contrary to belief, are significantly softer than adult teeth; the layer of enamel is thinner, leading to a higher likelihood of your child developing decay. This is also exacerbated by childhood related consumption of sweets and chocolates, so it is vital to attend check-ups with your child every 6 months.
If your child’s dental practitioner notices the formation of a cavity, they will apply a fluoride sealant to the surface of the tooth. Similar to applying nail polish, this painless process involves painting on a layer of fluoride, which will strengthen the weakened enamel against further deterioration and create a protective barrier.
Fluoride sealants are also beneficial if your child has sensitive teeth, as they seal the microscopic holes that create sensitivity.
Orthodontics
One of the most dreaded areas of childhood dentistry for many parents is the visit to the orthodontist.
Usually performed by age 7 in the UK, dental professionals refer children for a check-up with an orthodontist, who can assess your child’s jaw, mouth, and teeth for any issues with alignment, protrusions or crowding.
While it can seem unnecessary, orthodontic issues are easier to resolve earlier in life, as your child’s adult teeth have not become fixed in place. Preventive orthodontics is a great way to ensure your child’s mouth stays healthy.
Adult teeth
As mentioned before, it is important when selecting a dental surgery for your family that there is a knowledgeable childhood dental practitioner on the team.
Children have 2 sets of teeth that require regular monitoring; their erupted baby teeth and their adult teeth, which are sitting just below the surface.
It is not uncommon for adult teeth to show issues before they erupt, such as being in an incorrect position, so it is worth ensuring that your child’s dental team is equipped to check for any potential problems.
Also, although typically the job of an orthodontist, an expert in children’s teeth is more likely to be able to spot signs of alignment issues, like overbites, underbites and crossbites. Earlier identification of these issues leads to a higher success rate in treatment through orthodontic braces and fitted aligners.
