When Should Your Child See an Orthodontist?

When it comes to pediatric dental care, preventive treatment is key. One such way to be proactive with our child’s oral health is to set up a consultation with an orthodontist. An orthodontist can target problem areas early on and perform treatment that eliminates dental concerns in the future. But how do you know when it’s time for your child to visit the orthodontist? Keep reading and find out!

Start at age 7: If, so far, you have noticed nothing amiss with your child’s teeth, it’s best to have them visit an orthodontist by the time they turn 7 years old. Most problems can be identified by that age and an appropriate treatment plan can be created.

Keep track of the teeth that fall out: Baby teeth typically fall out in a certain order, so any deviations should be kept track of. Teeth falling out in a non-traditional order could be a sign of an orthodontic issue in the future.

Count the number of teeth that grow in: Permanent teeth will begin to erupt at a certain age. Six-year molars should develop by the age of six, for instance. If certain teeth are not growing in according to their traditional timeline, you should schedule a visit to the orthodontist.

Check for crowding and spacing: Once permanent teeth begin to grow in, you will begin to notice whether the teeth are becoming crowded or spaced too far apart. Crowding and spacing issues are harder to clean, and by straightening the teeth, your child’s oral health can improve.

Assess teeth alignment or bite position: Crooked teeth or over, under, and crossbites have poor effects on oral health and have costly social implications. Scheduling an orthodontic visit early can take care of cosmetic dental issues and increase the chances of a healthy smile.

Contact Huntington Beach Pediatric Dentist, Dr. Dimitri Bizoumis

If you would like more information about orthodontics or overall dental care for your child, contact Dr. Dimitri Bizoumis today! We would be happy to a schedule a dental exam or complimentary orthodontic consultation for your child!

Why Does Your Child Need Fluoride?

When you begin scheduling dental appointments for your child, you may hear this buzzword getting thrown around: Fluoride. You probably know that fluoride is important for your child’s oral health, but do you know why? Read on to find out more.

Fluoride is a mineral that is present in many natural environments. Certain foods and water all contain some amount of fluoride. The mineral is also vital for the beginning stages of your child’s dentition. It acts as an additional layer that resists acids from plaque and bacteria, lessening the chances of cavities and tooth decay.

You will find your dentist suggesting fluoride for your child because its application helps reverse early tooth decay. Fluoride treatment is vital for the health of permanent teeth, which is why your dentist will apply it early and while your child’s teeth are still developing.

Fluoride treatment is a preventive and proactive approach to good oral health and should be used on children between the ages of six and sixteen – when the teeth are still developing and becoming permanent. There are many forms of fluoride available and your dentist will determine the best method for your child depending on their dentition and overall health. Fluoride can be applied as a gel, foam, or varnish and can also be taken in liquid or tablet form with a prescription.

Overall, it is important that your child receive fluoride treatment as a preventive measure for their oral health and your local dentist can always help you choose the appropriate treatment method for your child’s individual case.

Contact Dimitri Bizoumis, DDS for More Information

Dr. Dimitri Bizoumis is a pediatric dentist located in Huntington Beach who provides fluoride treatment for all of his young patients. If you would like more information about fluoride and its impact on oral health, contact Dr. Bizoumis and schedule an appointment.