It’s easy to accidentally skip a trip to the dentist, especially if everyone in your family is brushing and flossing every day. As long as no one has any pain, why rush in for an appointment? However, regular dental care is essential for oral health at any age, and establishing a habit of visiting the dentist twice a year can prevent serious problems for your child. 

Why Should Your Child Visit the Dentist Regularly?

For most people, a visit to the dentist means having their teeth cleaned and checked by the doctor. At least one annual visit might also include taking X-rays. All of these procedures need to be done regularly to prevent small problems from becoming larger and more painful ones.

Even when they practice good dental care at home and clean their teeth, it’s impossible for children to remove all of the plaque and tartar. This can lead to cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. The dentist will also check for signs of oral diseases, damage to your teeth, shifting, issues with existing fillings, and other problems that you might not otherwise notice until it’s too late.

What Are the Consequences of Not Receiving Dental Care? 

Your child’s oral health is a large part of their overall health, and not taking care of their teeth can contribute to serious diseases. For example, bacteria on the teeth has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Regular cleanings can reduce risk for those conditions. Many problems with the teeth aren’t immediately apparent, either. Catching issues early prevents the need for more aggressive responses and saves money. 

If you’re looking for a kid-friendly dentist to help your child build excellent dental care habits, schedule an appointment with the team at Alaska Dentistry for Kids in Anchorage. Dr. Chris Coplin and his staff will make visiting the dentist fun for your kids and provide you with advice on how to keep your child’s teeth healthy throughout their childhood. Call (907) 274-2525 or visit them online to learn more about their services.