What Age Should a Child Start Seeing a Pediatric Dentist?

Pediatric Dentist West Grove, PA

Parents are often unsure when their children should first see a dentist. Continue reading to find out when your child should see a pediatric dentist for the first time. A pediatric dentist is specially educated to deal with issues that affect children. They can look after your child’s teeth, mouth, and gums as they grow through the phases of childhood.

When a child should start seeing a pediatric dentist

Primary teeth, sometimes known as baby teeth, play a critical role. Teeth perform several important tasks, thus taking good care of them is advantageous. In addition, baby teeth promote healthy nutrition by ensuring proper chewing, enhance speech development, and maintain space between permanent teeth for healthy growth. The following is some information on the importance of taking your child to the pediatric dentist at the right time.

Dental care is important

Parents are typically recommended to take their children to the dentist while they are young. This usually happens within six months of the first tooth sprouting, but no later than 12 months. Tooth decay can start as soon as a child’s first tooth emerges, which occurs between the ages of six and 12 months on average.

Since permanent teeth will eventually replace primary teeth, some parents question why they should be concerned about decay in primary teeth. The issue is that tooth decay in children’s teeth raises the chance of cavities in permanent teeth. In addition, if a child’s tooth decay is severe, it might have a negative impact on their general health.

Tooth decay that goes unnoticed and untreated can lead to various issues, including tooth loss, infection, as well as costly and, in many cases, avoidable emergency and restorative procedures. In addition, tooth decay discomfort might hinder a baby from eating correctly, affecting their general growth and health.

The benefits of early dental examinations

It is vital to begin dental exams for children as early as possible to safeguard their teeth. Some pediatric dentists advise that children see them before their first tooth appears. This is significant because it allows the child to begin a lifelong dental care regimen that will help prevent cavities and other oral issues.

Pediatric dentists can detect early tooth decay, determine whether fluoride treatment is required, and teach parents about proper oral and facial development. Early visits to a pediatric dentist can also save money for parents. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children who wait until they are two or three years old for their first dental appointment are more likely to require restorative and emergency care.

Ready to make an appointment?

The proper maintenance of your child’s teeth should always be a top priority. Healthy, strong baby teeth will aid your child’s ability to speak and eat. These teeth also make room in your child’s jaw for the permanent teeth that will come later. Your child’s first dental appointment should occur within six months after the first tooth’s appearance, but no later than their first birthday. If you have any questions about dental care and its importance during your child’s first year, contact our dental office today.

Request an appointment here: https://www.smilesinpa.com or call Jenny Chen Pediatric and Family Dentistry at (610) 400-1588 for an appointment in our West Grove office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentist in West Grove, PA.

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