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YOU SMILE, WE SMILE

Lauren Lewis | September 2016

A new school year is upon us, and what better time to review your child’s current dental health plan than now?

The importance of regular check ups with your dental professional is the foundation for good oral hygiene. If summer got away from you and a trip to the dentist didn’t make your calendar, schedule a visit now. Children should be seen at least every six months for cleanings and a thorough oral exam to assess dental health but our professional team can tell you when and how often your child should visit based on their individualized oral health plan. Fluoride treatments are offered to prevent the formation of cavities. The application of sealants for your child’s teeth, to further protect them from dental decay, is another option to discuss with your dentist.

According to the American Association of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), your child should see a pediatric dentist when their first tooth appears or, no later than their first birthday. Primary, or “baby,” teeth are important and should be cared for accordingly. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also form a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt.

Finding a dental home for your child early will establish an ongoing relationship between dentist and patient and set in place a personalized plan for good oral hygiene. By taking your child to the dentist regularly, we can recommend a specific plan of brushing, flossing and other treatments for parents to supervise and teach their children. This “homework,” when added to regular dental visits and a balanced diet, will help give your child a lifetime of healthy habits.

With fall sports underway, remember to protect your child’s teeth when they participate in any type of sports. A custom-fitted mouthguard from your dentist will protect your child’s teeth, lips, cheeks and gums from sports related injuries.

We are also proud to welcome patients of any age with special health care needs. This may include  patients with any physical, developmental, mental, sensory, behavioral, cognitive or emotional impairment. Our practice was established as an inclusive practice and our team has the experience and specialized knowledge and training to provide a personal health care plan that includes adaptive measures and accommodations to make dental care accessible for all.

The AAPD reminds us that “oral health means much more than healthy teeth. Oral health is integral to general health.”

Make EJL your dental home because your smile is important to us. If you smile, we smile!

Speaking of smiles, you made us smile last year when we won Best of Bethesda! Please vote Best Pediatric Dentist here. Thank you for your ongoing support.

Dr. Shailja Ensor

Dr. Lauren Lewis