Were you aware that more than one-half of all children aged 5-9 years have at least one cavity or filling in their smile? And that if this condition is left undiagnosed, it can ultimately harm your child because a painful tooth or chronic dental problem can lead to difficulty in eating, speaking and concentrating?

Children with chronic dental pain may not always tell you what is happening to them. You might only notice that they appear anxious, depressed or tired, and even their teachers may not recognize their pain. Not only that, but untreated dental problems can even end up causing many children to miss school.

Our dentist at Mountainland Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Jared Pearson, is happy to help you decide how often your child should be seen for dental checkups. We will look at the following to help make this assessment:

— Your child’s eating habits.

— How well your child’s teeth are maintained.

— Any past treatment your child has received and what their current needs are.

— Whether your child drinks fluoridated water.

— Any factors that may indicate susceptibility to oral diseases.

Oral health truly begins in the home. While children can usually begin brushing their own teeth by the time they are seven years old, they typically require supervising until they are around 10-11 years old. We also advise flossing your child’s teeth until they are around ten years old, as flossing is a skill that takes longer to master.

In addition to healthy oral habits, periodic dental cleanings will help your child achieve healthy, confident smiles. Please call our Mountainland Pediatric Dentistry team in Lehi, Utah, at 801-766-2111 to schedule your child’s appointment with Dr. Jared Pearson. We understand how important your child’s smile is for optimal health!