Did you know that without modern dentistry, our teeth are supposed to last only 35 years? So if you are expecting your teeth to last more than the expected life span of teeth, it’s important you begin a comprehensive family dentistry plan.
With a family dentistry, dentists open their practice to people of every age. In doing so, this allows families with children ranging in age from toddler to teenagers to all go to the same practice.
The benefit of going to a family dentist is that as you go on you will be able to build a relationship with the dentist, which is going to translate over to your children. With a trusted family dentist, you feel safe and secure in your dentists’ judgments.
With regards to philosophy, dentists practicing family dentistry take care to educate your children on proper oral hygiene, ensuring they build life-long, healthy practices to keep their teeth and gums healthy.
Why is family dental education important?
- If proper dental hygiene is not taught when your children are young, they will be less likely to incorporate healthy habits into their life.
- Experts agree that prevention is superior to treatment since treatments are costly and painful while prevention is simple to maintain.
What is the family dentist’s role?
Unlike specialized dentists such as orthodontists or periodontists, a family dentist serves a preventative role. It’s recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA) that you visit your family dentist for a dental checkup twice a year. During these checkups, your family dentist will:
- Minimize plaque buildup.
- Fill cavities.
- Ensure gums are healthy.
- Prevent tooth decay.
- Educate you on possible tooth whitening procedures, if necessary.
Family dentists pride themselves in educating your children. You can feel secure in knowing that after their first visit, your child will know how to best care for their teeth and understand the best flossing and brushing methods.
