It’s important to start caring for your child’s teeth early, and a big part of that care is seeing a dentist who practices pediatric dentistry. Children typically develop their baby, or primary, teeth beginning at five or six months old. Even though these teeth fall out around age six or seven, it’s important to properly care for them, including a visit to the dentist after the emergence of the first tooth. After all, oral health plays a major role in overall wellness.
When it comes to pediatric dentistry, it’s important to focus on the unique dental issues that may develop in the teeth, gums, and jaw as the body grows.
It’s no surprise that the mouth is full of bacteria. It’s also an entry point for the rest of your body – and of course, certain germs can cause diseases. With regular brushing and flossing, you keep the bacteria under control and also prevent infections in your mouth and throughout your body.
Establishing the good habit of at-home dental care is especially important as young kids develop and change every day. Did you know that cavities are the most common disease in children? In fact, experts believe that over 50 percent of kids have cavities in their primary teeth. That means cavities are five times more common than asthma!
So what is a pediatric dentistry appointment like?
Early visits should last 30 to 45 minutes. We know that young children have trouble sitting still, so the dental hygienist and dentist will try to move quickly! Although each visit is different, you and your child can expect:
- Teeth cleaning and polishing to remove any plaque and tartar
- An examination to check their teeth, gums, bite, and jaws
- A short conversation about your child’s oral health, including their brushing and flossing habits as well as any areas of concern
Your child probably won’t need X-rays until their adult, or secondary, teeth begin coming in. However, if your dentist is concerned about tooth decay or needs to look at the root of a baby tooth, they may recommend them.
A pediatric dentist can help your child create dental habits that last a lifetime.
Maitland Ave Smile Co. is a family dental practice, offering services to patients of all ages. During each visit with our youngest guests, we work diligently to identify any concerns and provide the best treatment options to ensure a confident smile. Plus, we offer you age-appropriate tips to manage your child’s dental routine at home.
Our team provides the following pediatric dentistry services in our Altamonte Springs office: dental cleanings, routine check-ups, dental sealants, X-rays when needed, screenings for cavities and tooth decay, mouthguards, and patient education as well as wisdom teeth removal and Invisalign® for teens. We carefully track the growth and development of their teeth to get ahead of any dental problems and orthodontic issues.
We hope you’ll choose Maitland Ave Smile Co. for your family’s dental care!
Call us at 407.834.0330 to schedule your appointment today! Explore our Dental Blog to discover more about topics like root canals, dental anxiety, and more.