Age My Child Should Start Seeing A Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Alma • March 1, 2021
There are many first time parents who are clueless when their child should start seeing a dentist. Should it begin when all of their baby teeth have all grown in? Maybe when the first tooth makes its amazing appearance? Or perhaps only when their baby teeth start coming out? One thing is certain, first time parents are not alone when it comes to these types of questions. So, what exactly are the important things you need to know in order to help guide you through your child’s dental journey?
To begin, a pediatric dentist is similar to general dentistry, however, they have gone through even more training and schooling to properly handle problems that are specific to children. Throughout your child’s younger years their baby teeth, or primary teeth, are going to be as significant as their adult teeth, or permanent teeth. Not only do they allow your child to foster proper nutrition by chewing, but it can help in the development of speech, and ensures proper growth for their permanent set of teeth by keeping appropriate spacing between them.
While many parents are typically advised to take their kids to the dentist as soon as the first tooth erupts, usually around 6 months old, some prefer to wait until their first birthday. The overall consensus from pediatric dentists is that your child’s first visit to the dentist should be around the age of one, however, tooth decay is possible as a child’s first tooth comes in. Although this decay may seem like a very small risk to a tooth that will not even be there in a few years, it is not something to take lightly. Tooth decay in primary teeth can lead to a greater risk of tooth decay in the permanent teeth later on. If a serious condition, this decay can spread to other teeth and cause potential harm to their overall health. If left unnoticed and untreated decay can lead to other serious conditions such as infection, loss of teeth, and sometimes very expensive treatments and restorative interventions. If any parent has ever had to deal with a tooth ache, you know how painful it can be. To a child who may not be able to communicate properly the pain could also prevent a child from eating correctly and may impact their overall health and developmental progress.
Starting a regular dental care routine, including visits to the dentist, are important to instill in an early age. It helps to enable a child to take an interest in their health and wellbeing. While they may not be able to remember most of their early dentist trips, this can be the beginning of a lifelong commitment to thwarting cavities and decay. If you have been wondering if it is the right time for your child to start this journey, call Baptiste Dentistry for Kids, your pediatric dentist in Apopka, and set up a consultation today. Our team is dedicated to providing the best oral care for your child!
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