One factor people often overlook when choosing a new dental practice is preventative care. Good oral health is essential for speaking, eating, smiling, and more. Dental practices offer checkups and cleanings but may not emphasize preventive care. They need to. Overall, oral health in America is improving. However, there is still a long way to go.
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Children and Oral Health
Many people don’t consider cavities a chronic health issue, but they are. Sadly, many children do not receive dental care promptly, which harms their overall health. Cavities are significantly more common than asthma and hay fever, and economic disparities are seen in this area. Poor children have cavities more than their affluent classmates, and these cavities often go untreated. Any untreated cavity can lead to health issues for the individual in the future.
The Role of the Dental Practice
Many cavities go untreated in children because the family lacks dental insurance. Dental costs can quickly add up, even for preventative care. People often assume that Medicaid is a stopgap for these individuals, but 66% of dentists in the country do not accept this insurance program. Therefore, parents often delay getting their children the care they need. Preventative care can help keep these costs down.
Dental practices need to emphasize preventative care. When a patient comes in for a cleaning or a checkup, the dental hygienist or dentist should discuss properly caring for their teeth. Parents must be educated on caring for their children’s teeth from birth until adulthood.
Getting a child into the Twin Falls dentist may be the biggest challenge, as parents often lack the time and money for these appointments. Dental practices should reach out to the community to offer this preventative care. They may visit preschools, elementary schools, and other places where young children gather. Doing so exposes the children to a dentist and can provide parents with valuable information on caring for their child’s teeth and preventing future problems.
The Dangers of Poor Oral Health in Children
Children with dental issues may struggle to learn, their appetite may decrease because they struggle to eat without pain, they may be unable to focus in school, and they may become depressed. These issues can lead to a decrease in school attendance and learning performance. Children with dental problems miss more school days than their peers, negatively impacting their learning.
The Importance of Preventative Care
Proper oral care can prevent most dental issues. Dentists should emphasize the importance of brushing and flossing and ensure the parents and child know how to do both tasks properly. Research shows that every dollar a family spends on preventative dental care can save them up to $50 on restorative and emergency care. In addition, the dentist can take steps to help reduce the risk of oral issues. Sealants, for example, can prevent most cavities in children.
Parents must talk with their pediatricians, dentists, and others to learn how to care for their children’s teeth. Regular dental care is best, and schools may wish to become involved. They can have dental professionals visit their practices and schools and show the children how to brush and floss properly. They may also work with schools to provide toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss to needy children. When everyone works together, preventative dental care becomes a priority, and the children benefit from it.
