It is quite common for parents to find themselves wondering when to take their child to a pediatric dentist. These are dentists with additional training on dealing with children and their oral issues. The answer to that question is simple. A child is due for a visit to the dentist when their first tooth emerges. This usually occurs around the six-month mark. That is also the time the parent should start brushing the child's teeth.
Here are some of the reasons why it is important to get your child to a dentist before their first birthday.
Taking a child to the dentist early is the first step towards keeping tooth decay away. The pediatric dentist will evaluate the child looking for signs of decay, and they can do preventative treatments like cleanings and applying dental sealants.
Keeping primary teeth healthy is extremely important despite the fact that they are temporary teeth. They serve a very important purpose when it comes to speech development, and they guide the permanent teeth when it is time for them to erupt. Losing a milk tooth prematurely can end up causing bite issues.
Taking a child to the dentist early gives them a chance to monitor the development of the child's teeth and jaw. The dentist might notice signs of a potential malocclusion and perform treatments to fix it before it even becomes an issue.
Parents get educated on how to properly take care of their child's teeth during dental visits. The parent will learn about proper brushing, flossing and nutrition that facilitates good oral health. The dentist can also educate the parent about how to address issues that can affect the development of the child's teeth like thumb sucking.
Taking a child to a dentist early on gives them a chance to familiarize themselves with the environment. Pediatric dental clinics are designed to be kid-friendly, and getting the child to associate dentists with fun experiences reduces their odds of developing dental phobias later in life. People with dental anxiety tend to deal with serious dental issues during their lives, since they are likely to put off getting treatment until pain forces them to see a dentist.
Taking care of a child's teeth sets them up for a life with limited dental issues. It familiarizes them with the concept of dental visits being a positive thing that is necessary to keep teeth healthy. If your child's first tooth has emerged, it is time for their first dental visit. Call or stop by our Middletown office to set up your child's first appointment. We promise to make it a fun experience for you and your little one.
Request an appointment here: https://www.hvkidsmiles.com or call Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry at (845) 363-4177 for an appointment in our Middletown office.
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