It’s essential to understand the many stages of dental care to prepare for upcoming years and protect your teeth for a lifetime. Here’s a breakdown of the general phases of dental care, from early childhood to retirement.
Childhood
During early childhood, you develop your first set of teeth, which helps to establish jaw function as well as hold the space for permanent teeth. Primary teeth are essential in building the foundation for a healthy smile.
Maintaining proper dental hygiene prevents cavities and decay. Building habits such as brushing and flossing every day promotes healthy teeth. Building good hygiene habits during impressionable stages allows patients to enjoy good oral health throughout their lifetimes.
Dentists generally monitor and maintain children’s health by providing diagnostic examinations, cleanings, and determining future treatment. Young patients may receive preventive treatments to address problem areas, such as fluoride administration or sealants, as well as monitoring for future orthodontic treatment.
Teenage Years
As permanent teeth develop they do not align properly. This can cause crowding and make it difficult to clean in between teeth, leading to decay. Regular cleanings and exams can help prevent tooth decay and lower the risk of a dental emergency. Proper at-home care reduces plaque and prevents bacteria from developing acids that harm enamel. If your teen is active in sports, wearing a mouthguard should be worn at every practice and event.
Adulthood
As an adult, teeth can wear down differently, tartar can build up below the line, and decay can continue to cause damage. Discoloration and yellowing can leave you feeling much less confident about your smile. To improve your oral health and restore confidence, see your dentist at least once every six months and maintain a rigorous at-home oral health routine. There are many treatment options available to eliminate decay and help you preserve your natural dental structure
Periodontal therapy can help reverse early stages of gum disease. Restorations, such as crowns and bridges, repair dentition, and give you a fully functional smile. Elective procedures can include teeth whitening, veneers, and orthodontic alignment for misaligned teeth. Maintaining your oral health as an adult will help you avoid more severe complications as you age and keep you smiling with confidence.
Senior Dental Care
In the later stages in life, teeth may need to be replaced using partial or full dentures, bridges, or dental implants. Maintaining your jawbone health is essential to preserve dental function and maintain a high quality of life. You can explore a range of restorative and surgical options to restore the functionality and aesthetics of your smile.
Dental implants replace a tooth from root to crown and help prevent jaw bone deterioration. A full, healthy set of teeth keeps your facial features looking youthful, and allows you to speak, eat, and smile with confidence.
No matter what stage of life you are in, maintaining proper dental hygiene throughout is essential the key to keeping your teeth healthy and your smile beautiful.
