Kids Dentists Answer Your Big Questions About Little Teeth
Children have special dental needs, so you need to know how find a pediatric dentist to give them the proper care. To help you take care of your child’s dental care, family dentistry professionals provided answers to these popular parent questions.
When Should a Child’s Dental Care Begin?
Experts in family dentistry strongly recommend taking your child for their first dental appointment by their first birthday. This will allow the pediatric dentist to evaluate their dental development and provide advice on proper at-home dental care, nutrition, and preventative measures.
How Often Should a Child See a Pediatric Dentist?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should see a kids dentist at least twice a year for dental check-ups. Children who have a great deal of tooth decay, poor oral hygiene, or unique growth patterns may require more frequent visits.
What Happens At a Child's Dental Appointment?
Once you arrive at the family dentistry practice, the child’s pediatric dentist will first review their medical and dental history. Then, they will examine your child’s teeth, mouth, and jaw for dental problems. A head and neck examination will follow. Afterward, your child's teeth will be cleaned and polished. Once the exam is complete, the pediatric dentist will discuss their findings and recommendations with you and your child.
How Do Tooth Sealants Help a Child?
Tooth sealants are plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. They protect these teeth from tooth decay by providing a barrier against bacteria and food particles. A kids dentist may recommend them as a way to reduce a child’s risk of decay.
Do All Children Need Orthodontic Treatment?
As with all other dental decisions, it depends on the child. Many kids have crowded teeth or a misaligned bite. These issues are often hereditary, but other problems can be caused by dental injuries, the early loss of baby teeth or childhood habits like thumb sucking. If your child’s pediatric dentist feels that orthodontic treatment could help your child, they will discuss your orthodontic options.
