Like every dentist, we take your child’s teeth very seriously
Here at uSmile, we’re on a mission: we want the children in our practice to grow up with great teeth…. and keep them for life!
Parents are often surprised to learn that young children’s teeth are prone to decay. But it stands to reason: children’s teeth are softer (and usually more exposed to sugar!) so they’re far more vulnerable than adults’ teeth.
And this is why we stress that children often need more regular check-ups than their parents.
One of the problems lies with children’s toothpastes, which are low in fluoride. So once your child reaches the age of 3, it’s a good idea to switch them to switch them to an adult toothpaste with more fluoride.
Decay can also be prevented through fluoride gels, fissure sealants, dietary analysis and some refresher training on tooth brushing techniques. Your dentist will be happy to discuss these solutions with you and your child.
A trip to the dentist – now that’s something to smile about!
A visit to the uSmile surgery is a fun and relaxed affair, for adults as well as children. Reassurance is everything, so our dentists and dental nurses will reward each visit with balloons or stickers – a great incentive for them to look after their teeth and hurry back for their next check up.
And remember, it’s never too early for your child to see the Dentist. Diet and brushing habits are established at a very young age, so bring your child along next time you have a check-up, even if their teeth haven’t formed yet.
What about orthodontics?
Orthodontics is about straightening teeth, closing gaps and correcting bites by using braces. As a family dental practice treating children of all ages, we work closely with a number of local orthodontic practices.
A child is most likely to see an orthodontist between the ages of 9 and 12. When the dentist, the patient and the parents feel that orthodontics would be beneficial, we’ll arrange for a consultation with an orthodontic specialist. This can often be referred through the NHS, though the Department of Health has recently raised the criteria for a child to receive NHS orthodontics: ‘crowding’ now needs to be quite severe for a referral to be approved.
If your child needs orthodontic treatment but doesn’t qualify with the NHS, the cost to you could be in the region of £2000. In this instance, your orthodontist will advise on the best course of action, and may be able to offer private treatment with the cost spread over a few years.
Transform your smile – whatever your age
Braces are not just for children and more and more adult patients are requesting orthodontic treatment to create the perfect smile. Thanks to advances in dental braces, the treatment can be almost invisible to the naked eye!
Adult orthodontics is always carried out privately. Referrals can be arranged if you contact your Dentist.
