02/15/2024 by Kari Perlewitz
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, which is the perfect time to shine a light on the importance of pediatric dental services and the lifelong benefits of good dental habits! For us here at North Country HealthCare, nurturing these habits from an early age is one of the most important ways we build healthier futures and healthier communities in Northern Arizona.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling a child’s first dental appointment as soon as their first tooth appears, or by their first birthday. This might seem too early, but these visits are so important. First, we examine the teeth, gums, and jaw, checking for cavities, proper development, and other potential issues. We also provide parents with guidance so they can help their little ones develop good oral hygiene practices!
Around the age of five, children should get their first round of dental x-rays. These x-rays help us diagnose dental conditions that are not visible to the naked eye, such as the positioning of unerupted or extra teeth and potential orthodontic needs. At North Country HealthCare, we use digital x-rays, which are quicker, provide enhanced image quality, and greatly minimize the level of radiation children are exposed to. Dental x-rays are recommended every two years.
The most prevalent dental issue among children is dental cavities, more commonly known as tooth decay. However, because more parents are making pediatric dental appointments for their children, the prevalence of decay in permanent teeth has decreased from 25% to 18% in school-aged children. This is great news!
However, children from some minority racial groups and those affected by poverty have seen less improvement in this area. That’s why we accept most insurance plans and offer a sliding fee scale for a discount on dental services to those who qualify. We don’t want cost to be a barrier when it comes to pediatric dental services for your family.
North Country HealthCare offers pediatric dental services in Flagstaff, Williams, Show Low, and Winslow, catering to children from birth through age 20. Our doctors and residents stand out for their kindness, patience, and understanding. They care about making dental visits a positive experience, ensuring children feel comfortable when they’re sitting in our chairs.
As we celebrate National Children’s Dental Health Month, we invite you to give your nearest dental clinic a call to set up an appointment. The best time to start prioritizing your children’s oral health is today. Building these dental habits at a young age sets the stage for a healthier future in our Northern Arizona communities!
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