As a parent, it is essential to take your child for regular dental checkups. This way, you protect your little one from dental decay, among other oral health problems. But when should you start taking your child to the pediatric dentist? If you are unsure when you should start taking your child to the dentist, this article is for you.
When should you first visit a pediatric dentist?
Immediately your child starts growing teeth, consider taking them for a dental checkup. According to the American Dental Association, you need to start taking your child to the dentist as soon as they get to six months. At this age, these professionals are able to notice any abnormalities in your child’s mouth. Dental problems can manifest when your child is still young. So, consider examining your child’s teeth from time to time to see if there are any issues.
More often than not, pediatric dentists administer mild treatment on small babies if they diagnose them with dental issues. They are likely to postpone serious treatment like surgery and orthodontic procedures. This is because babies are too young to handle certain dental procedures. Most professionals may even recommend treatment after several years.
Why should you start visiting your pediatric dentist so early?
Based on recent statistics, 1 in 5 children has dental decay. Children love candy and have little experience brushing and flossing their teeth thoroughly. Therefore, they are more susceptible to dental problems. Taking your child to the dentist enables you to diagnose and treat any dental problems early enough. In turn, your child is likely to experience good oral health. During dental checkups, your pediatric dentist checks for orthodontic problems, cavities, gingivitis, and injuries. Also, these professionals conduct a professional tooth cleaning procedure during checkups. This helps in minimizing the occurrence of dental decay.
Choosing a Pediatric Dentist
Before taking your child for a dental checkup, you need to choose a reliable pediatric dentist. It would be best to settle for a pediatric dentist over a family dentist. This is because they have more specialty and experience dealing with children. Conduct thorough research on the best professionals available in the area. From there, choose one that caters to your requirements.
Why settle for a pediatric dentist?
Pediatric dentists have child-friendly dental equipment compared to general dentists. General dentists have large equipment that may hurt your child when inserted into their little mouth. Also, the seats at a general dentist’s office are too big to accommodate a little child. On the other hand, pediatric dentists have child-friendly equipment that makes your child more comfortable. Moreover, a pediatrics dentist’s office environment is colorful and entertaining for kids. Subsequently, your child is less likely to throw tantrums out of fear and anxiety when you take them to a pediatric dentist.
Pediatric dentists handle children better compared to general dentists. This is because they have undergone years of training in child dentistry. Thus, most of them know how to handle your child’s tantrums and make them feel at ease. Also, they are likely to establish a strong rapport with your child. This way, back-to-school dental checkups won’t be a nightmare for your kids.
What should you do before your first child’s dental visit?
Before taking your child for their first dental checkup, ensure they observe proper oral hygiene, start cleaning your child’s teeth as soon as they start growing teeth. In particular, always wipe your child’s teeth after breastfeeding them. Use a clean damp cloth for this. Avoid using fluoride toothpaste when they are this young since it might be harmful to their health. You can start using fluoride toothpaste on your child when they get to two years.
What to expect when you take your baby to the dentist
Upon your first consultation with a pediatric dentist, you’ll need to go with your child. More often than not, the professional will examine your child’s mouth while they’re sitting on your lap to ensure they are comfortable. If they identify anything abnormal with your child’s teeth, they might require them to sit on the dental chair for further examination. Note that your pediatric dentist will brief you on everything that will happen during the session. After examining your child’s teeth, they will carefully clean them. Then, they’ll give you the freedom to ask any questions you may have concerning your child’s oral health.
Golden Pediatric Dentistry is the best!
Every parent should take good care of their children’s teeth. Thus, they should schedule dental checkups with a reliable pediatric dentist. If you are looking for a dependable and experienced dentist, Golden Pediatric Dentistry got you covered. We have the best dentists who improve your child’s dental health. So, do not hesitate to book an appointment with us.