The secret to implementing effective oral hygiene habits for your children is getting started as early as possible. In addition to teaching them all the good habits that you’re already following, you should also start taking them for dental visits from a very young age.
You may think that this also requires a specialised dentist. However, many parents have found that a family focused dental specialist is the more effective approach to take. This means having the same dentist for the whole family. This post takes a closer look at how this will benefit you and your family.
Simplify the Dental Care Approach
Many Australians are already enjoying the benefits of family dentistry. If this concept is new to you, then we urge you to keep reading as we highlight the key benefits of having the same dentist for the whole family, no matter what the age groups are.
One Dental Practitioner is Super Convenient
The primary reason that family-focused dental care works well for Australian families is the convenience it offers. Scheduling dental visits for you and your spouse and then for your children can be a nightmare if you aren’t all seeing the same doctor. Appointments need to be made to coincide with time off work and school, and if you’re in a job where time off is hard to come by, it can be easy to neglect these appointments.
Opting to use a family dentist makes the scheduling process more convenient. Additionally, routine checkups can easily be scheduled for all the kids on the same day, saving time on the frustration and time off. You can simplify the process even further by finding a local dentist, as this cuts down on travel time and is more convenient in case of an emergency.
You’ll Get Support With Your Early Dental Care Training
Teaching your children to follow healthy dental habits can be challenging when you’re dealing with kids of different ages. They can bounce between being eager to learn and choosing to ignore you. You may also be wondering if you’re teaching them everything they need to know.
A family dentist will be able to assist and support you with this. They will help guide correct brushing and flossing for various ages. Some dentists have a knack with kids and can make the learning process more fun.
May Help Minimise Fear of Visiting the Dentist
Fear of visiting the dentist is one of the more common fears among people of all ages. Experts suggest that at least 75% of adults have a fear or phobia of visiting the dentist. More commonly referred to as dentophobia, this fear usually originates from negative childhood experiences at the dentist.
In some cases, this can be due to only being introduced to a dentist in an emergency, or not going often enough as a child. Avoid this by introducing your children to the dentist at a very young age and explaining the process. Encourage questions and let your children see you visiting the dentist without fear. Be sure to reinforce the positives of visiting your dentist.
Enables a More Coordinated Approach to Additional Care
In some cases, more specialised dental care is needed, which may involve seeing a specialist. When this happens, your family dentist can easily make the best recommendation based on your location and medical needs.
Periodontists and endodontists are two common examples of additional dental care professionals your family may need. Going to a doctor recommended by your current dentist will assure you that your children will receive the best possible care.
Simpler for Your Dentist to Counter Hereditary Issues
Dental issues, such as other medical conditions, can often be hereditary. When this happens, it’s often easier for your dentist to treat and even prevent dental issues in younger children that they have seen developing in you or your older children. This can make dealing with anything from excessive cavities to bite problems considerably more effective.
Takes the Stress Out of Emergency Dental Care
Accidents can happen in an instant, especially when you’re dealing with active children. This increases the likelihood of a facial injury, which can also result in a dental emergency. Having a local family dentist means that you instantly have someone to call in these types of emergencies, no matter what time they occur.
There’s no need to look for an available doctor, and you’ll also have the reassurance that your child knows the person they’re seeing. They’re more likely to feel at ease if they’re familiar with the doctor. This will be especially helpful if the injury is significant and will require several follow-up visits.
Final Thoughts
Getting your child comfortable with visiting the dentist starts when they see you also going to the dentist. This means choosing a family dentist rather than seeing a separate dental practitioner. A family dentist is the perfect way for your children to learn the best practices for early dental care. These habits will set them up for a lifetime of good oral hygiene habits!