Why Are Early Childhood Dental Visits Important?
Most parents know the importance of taking their children to a dentist. But, surprisingly, only a percentage of them actively do so. Taking your child to a pediatric dentist in Phoenix offers significant benefits like early detection of dental problems.
Why Are Early Childhood Dental Visits Important?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that the first dental visit takes place when their first tooth comes out or by age one. Visiting a kid’s dentists offers great benefits like:
- Prevention of decay and cavities
Children are prone to dental decay and caries due to various causes, like taking too much sugar. The bacteria in the mouth will break down the sugary foods, producing an acid solution. This will attack the enamel and erode it, causing cavities. Unfortunately, dental cavities do not present symptoms in the early stages. This means that they can advance and damage the teeth. Premature loss of primary teeth can lead to other dental problems like crowding.
The dentist will examine the teeth and gums and perform professional teeth cleaning to remove the plaques.
- Detection of dental problems
Most dental problems can be treated or prevented from progressing if detected early. That is why you are advised to visit the dentist immediately after the teeth come out for proper examination. While you are at it, ensure you visit the kid’s orthodontist in Phoenix when the child turns seven. This is when the permanent teeth begin to come out, and the dentist can correct orthodontic problems on time, preventing the need for braces later.
- Establishes a strong foundation
Visiting a pediatric dentist from infancy teaches them the importance of proper dental care. This will lay the foundation for better dental care later.
Working with the same dentist also creates trust and makes it easy for the dentist (and you) to keep track of your child’s dental health. Pediatric dentists are trained to diagnose, prevent and treat children’s dental problems from infancy to young adulthood. This means that your child will not need to change to another dentist until about 21 years.
What Can You Expect During Your Kid’s First Dental Visit?
The first visit to a dentist for a child can be a little scary. The good news is that the first visit is short, but it sets the tone for all future visits.
The dentist will examine their teeth and gums for abnormalities and clean gums with a clean cloth. X-ray is rarely done unless they have a complex dental condition that requires further tests. It is advisable to visit the kid’s dentist twice a year or as advised by your dental team.
What Kind of Treatments Do Pediatric Dentists Offer?
Visiting a pediatric dental clinic is beneficial because it offers different treatments under one roof, and these include:
- Dental exams and cleanings. These are the basic preventive dental measures because they detect and prevent dental decay.
- Dental sealants. These are coatings made of plastic or glass ionomers that seal the teeth and prevent food particles from sticking on the teeth. They prevent decay and tooth sensitivity caused by tooth grinding.
- Fluoride treatment is recommended for children from age six. Fluoride strengthens the teeth and prevents decay and cavities.
- Restorative dental treatments, like root canals and tooth fillings, are designed to restore and repair the teeth.
How Can You Protect the Teeth and Gums at Home?
There are many ways to care for your teeth and gums, but the best way is to start early. The first step is to make sure that you and your child do not eat too many sugary foods and drinks. Use fluoride toothpaste, but according to the dentist’s instructions. Also, if bottle feeding, avoid sleeping with the bottle in their mouth because it can cause decay. Ensure you visit the dentist every six months for examination and proper cleaning.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Desert Ridge Pediatric Dentistry for more information about pediatric dental services and how they can benefit you.