Dr. Robert Dame is your family dentist in Grand Rapids, MI. He delivers preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dental care to people of all ages. How often should you come to North Park Family Dental? You may not need as much dental care as your neighbor or best friend, but Dr. Dame stresses the importance of regular dental visits for every single one of his patients.
Start early
Yes, the youngest of children need preventive care. Mom and Dad, bring your little ones to see Dr. Dame by the age of one or whenever that first baby tooth erupts. The friendly staff at North Park Family Dental will check your little one's teeth, gums, and overall oral development and just help him or her become accustomed to how a dental office looks and sounds. After this first appointment, bring your child back to your family dentist in Grand Rapids every six months for a cleaning and check-up.
Continue through the teen years
The American Dental Association (ADA) advises your dentist see your youngster regularly as he or she grows into a teen and beyond. Hygienic cleanings and exams remove toxic plaque and tartar, check dental alignment and look for decay and yes, gum disease.
The American Academy of Periodontology says that gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, frequently occurs in children and teens because at-home and in-office hygiene is neglected. So, again, the six-month rule applies. And, don't forget: orthodontic evaluation and wisdom tooth assessment are important to oral health.
Keep going as an adult
It's even more important that adults continue with preventive dental care. Yes, semi-annual visits are a must; however, some adults patients need more frequent cleanings and check-ups if they:
- Are prone to periodontal problems and decay
- Have multiple fillings, crowns, and tooth replacements
- Are diabetic or immunosuppressed (cancer patients should see Dr. Dame before starting chemotherapy)
- Are pregnant
- Smoke
- Have heart disease
The philosophy is this: your oral and systemic health are intertwined. So, ward off complex and escalating problems with regular in-office care. Your dentist will construct an ongoing treatment plan just right for your stage of life and health.
As needed
Of course, Dr. Dame and his team tell their patients to call the office if they are in pain, crack or lose a tooth, or restoration, or suffer another sort of pressing dental condition. You'll get the right help right away.
Call North Park Family Dental in Grand Rapids, MI, today to arrange your family's routine cleanings and exams. We look forward to seeing all of you! Phone (616) 361-7265.