Why should I find a 'dental home' for my child?
Good oral health is a vital part of overall health and well-being, and finding a dental home will ensure the best care for little teeth.
Today's guest blogger is Edward Moody, DDS, a pediatric dentist in Morristown, Tennessee and President of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
As parents and caregivers resolve to develop new healthy habits for their families in 2015, finding a dental home – the home base for your child's oral health needs – should be at the top of your list. If you are among those parents striving to fulfill a checklist of healthy promises for your family, remember that good oral health is a vital part of overall health and well-being, and finding a dental home will ensure the best care for little teeth.
What is a dental home?
A dental home is the ongoing relationship between the dentist and the patient, inclusive of all aspects of oral health care delivered in a comprehensive, continuously accessible and family-centered way. While it's ideal to establish a dental home by age 1, it is never too late! In addition to the regular cleaning and care provided at twice yearly check-ups, your pediatric dentist will provide parents and caregivers personalized guidance and tips to help children establish healthy habits at home.
Why is this important?
Finding a pediatric dentist to establish a dental home is vital to keeping little teeth healthy - here are some important reasons why:
Prevention keeps kids cavity-free. Tooth decay is a significant problem with young children in the U.S. – nearly 60 percent of children have it by age 5. The good news that it is nearly 100 percent preventable. A dental home ensures that you have the knowledge and tools you need to help your kids maintain healthy teeth and prevent cavities.
Help when an accident happens. As all parents know, it's always good to expect the unexpected! Do you know who to call if your child chips or knocks a tooth out? The answer should be your pediatric dentist.
Specialized training. Pediatric dentists receive two to three years of training beyond dental school on child psychology, growth and development, and special health care needs.
A welcoming environment. Pediatric dental offices are kid-friendly and family-oriented because making kids feel relaxed and comfortable is a priority. After all – what kid would not look forward to an office with cartoons on TV, their favorite books, stickers and goody bags all tailored to make them smile!
So how do I find a dental home?
Whether it's through a pediatrician, school nurse or other parents, it's common to find a pediatric dentist by word of mouth through a trusted contact. Since pediatricians and school nurses have good working relationships with pediatric dentists in the area, they can make recommendations for your family. You can also use a pediatric dentist finder on mychildrensteeth.org to find a pediatric dentist near you.
By finding a dental home, you will have a trusted partner to help keep your children'teeth healthy. Check out this story about one mom's perspective on why she is happy that she found a dental home for her son.
Have a question for the Healthy Kids panel? Ask it here. Read more from the Healthy Kids blog »