We often get phone calls from parents asking, “When should a child go to the dentist?” Some people wrongly assume that kids don’t need to see a dentist regularly because they are younger and don’t tend to suffer from the same oral complications that adults experience. Not only is that incorrect, but that idea can harm your kids if they don’t receive the treatment they need. The truth is dentists begin screening for a wide range of oral health issues starting when a child is very young, which is why you shouldn’t wait to visit Splendid Dental Atascocita.
When Should a Child Go to the Dentist?
Occasionally, we’ll hear from some parents who think it doesn’t matter if their children’s baby teeth get cavities. Those teeth will fall out, the reasoning goes, and they’ll be replaced by healthy adult teeth. This is an unhealthy and incorrect misconception. You’ll want to treat cavities right away because they can cause pain, irritation, and other lasting symptoms. As a matter of fact, you should still make an appointment for your kids, even if their teeth look healthy, because dentists can check for hidden problems. Hygienists will look for cavities and ensure the teeth are growing properly.
So when should a child go to the dentist? Your child should start going to the dentist when they’re six to twelve months old after they’ve started teething. Please don’t wait to take your child to the dentist until they have a cavity or other problem. Children should receive regular, twice-yearly check-ups and dental cleanings, just like adults do. And of course, any time your child is experiencing tooth pain or irritation, you should check in with your dentist to ensure it isn’t a sign of a more serious problem.
Why Do Kids Have to Go to the Dentist?
It’s true that treatment plans may occasionally differ for children who still have their baby teeth versus older kids or adults with permanent teeth. However, this doesn’t mean that it’s a good idea to neglect your child’s dental care. For one thing, poor oral hygiene can cause plaque build-up and even gum disease, no matter how old you are. Also, unlike baby teeth, your child doesn’t have a second set of gums growing in. The damage they receive as children will continue with them for the rest of their lives.
In short, reasons children should visit the dentist frequently include:
- Ensuring teeth are growing incorrectly
- Preventing or treating painful tooth decay
- Preventing or treating fluoride deficiency
- Spotting impacted teeth, tumors, and other hidden problems
- Developing healthy lifelong oral hygiene habits
As your child grows, your dentist will also be able to spot if your child’s teeth are growing in properly. If needed, dentists will refer your child to a Splendid Dental Atascocita orthodontist, who can fit them for braces.
What Can Your Child Expect During Visits at Splendid Dental Atascocita?
We believe that healthy oral habits form young. It’s actually better to expose your children to a dentist’s office while they’re younger, so they can form positive associations with it. Plus, you’ll be instilling healthy habits in them from a young age.
That’s why Splendid Dental Atascocita’s pediatric dentists are trained to work with kids and ensure they’re happy and comfortable in our offices. Our pediatric specialists will take good care of your kids, so every child walks away with a happy, healthy smile.
Splendid Dental Atascocita treats the whole family, from kids to parents, so that you can stay in one place for all your family’s dental needs. If you’ve been wondering, “When should a child go to the dentist?” the answer is, don’t wait. Call Splendid Dental Atascocita at 713-244-7790 and ensure your child’s oral health is off to the best possible start.
