by Dee Primett

Has your child been seen by a dentist yet? Children’s teeth erupt at a variety of ages, but as soon as they do, parents should start preparing their kids for a lifetime of good dental health. One of the best ways to do this is through regular visits to a pedodontist. Specifically trained and experienced in children’s teeth and welfare, your pedodontist is your biggest support when it comes to keeping up to date on your kid’s oral health.

At What Age Should A Child Go To The Dentist?

Confused about what age your child’s first dental visit should be? You aren’t alone. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children start seeing a pediatric dentist as soon as their first tooth appears, or no later than their first birthday. At this time, you should start brushing their teeth regularly and introduce them to a pedodontist. Regular visits from a young age can help your child get used to the sights and sounds of the dental office. This will help them to feel relaxed about future dental visits and could prevent them from becoming anxious or fearful as they get older.

Start Right To Avoid Future Dental Problems

It’s never too early to start taking care of our teeth. Until your child can become fully responsible for their own dental care, they will be relying on you and their dentist to help them. With proper care and attention, it’s possible for your child to avoid issues like dental caries [tooth decay or cavities] and gum disease. Doing so will also help them to avoid unpleasant associated symptoms like toothaches and abscesses. Regular visits to your pedodontist will help your child to enjoy strong, healthy teeth and an attractive smile.

Quitting Habits That Can Harm Your Child’s Teeth

There are lots of different things that can affect the growth and development of your child’s teeth and jaw. Some of these, like thumb sucking and prolonged pacifier use, often start when children are just a few months old. At your kid’s first dental visit, you’ll be given valuable advice on how to help them to avoid potentially harmful habits which could reduce the need for orthodontic treatment in the future. 

Early Orthodontic Referrals For Kids

Orthodontic treatment can be a very important part of your child’s oral health care. The cosmetic benefit of orthodontic treatment is just a bonus, but the real goal is to make sure that the way their teeth come together is as perfect as possible. This improves the way that their teeth work and reduces their risk of many dental issues including caries and gum disease. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that all children should have an orthodontic evaluation no later than 7 years of age. Regular visits to your pedodontist will ensure that this happens and that your child receives the care and treatment that they need to continue enjoying healthy teeth.

Helpful Advice For Great Oral Health

Regular dental visits are a fantastic opportunity for you to get professional advice to support your child’s oral health. This could be information about brushing and flossing, foods and drinks to avoid to prevent decay or even guidance on protecting your child’s teeth during sporting activities. Whatever you need to know, your pedodontist will help you to stay up to date on good dental care for your kids at every stage of their childhood.

Ready For Your Child’s First Dental Visit?

If your kid’s first dentist appointment takes place when they are still an infant, you’ll be able to hold them or have them sit in their stroller while your pedodontist looks at their teeth. However, if your child is a little older, they will be able to sit in the chair — something which can be great fun for curious kids. Pedodontists have the skill to be able to put children at ease while they check their teeth. Nevertheless, you can help prepare your little ones by talking to them about what to expect.

The Center for Pediatric Dentistry states, “The sooner children begin getting regular dental checkups, the healthier their mouths will stay throughout their lives.” Don’t delay scheduling your child’s first or next dental visit. Book an appointment with our dedicated pedodontics team today.

Our West Coast Dental professionals are always available to assist you. Whether you need a dentist in Rancho Cucamonga, Arleta, Hemet, Norco or a dental clinic in Torrance, our staff is here to help. Schedule an appointment with us today!

Dee Primett is a copywriter. She specializes in writing for the dental and medical industries and is passionate about helping people to enjoy long-term health and wellbeing through informative and engaging content.

Sources:

American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

American Association of Orthodontists – importance of orthodontics

UCLA Dentistry – UCLA Dentistry Magazine Winter 2019