Why a Pediatric Dental Professional Is The Best Choice For Your Child’s Oral Health Care
If you are a parent, you may be asking yourself how often children should visit a dentist. How do you know if your children are being properly looked after? These are common questions that can be easily answered. We all should visit a dentist periodically, but one thing is crucial: you should never wait until it’s too late.
Like general medicine, preventive dental care is important for all ages, and children are no exception. In case of doubt, schedule an appointment and visit a pediatric dental professional to check on your children’s oral health.
Why Regular Dental Care Is Essential For Children’s Oral Health
Most children in the US have at least one decaying tooth and at least one cavity, according to statistics. Also, about 20% of children have not visited a dentist within the last year, leading, among other things, to missed school hours because of dental health issues.
Improving children’s oral health is an adult’s responsibility. We should advocate for the little ones’ oral health and provide them with a toothbrush and techniques to brush their teeth properly. Oral health issues not only cause children to miss school hours in case of emergencies but can also turn into major problems in the long term.
Cavities, tooth decay, gingivitis, and other issues can easily be prevented not only by visiting a pediatric dentist but also by teaching the little ones oral hygiene habits.
When & How Often Should Kids Go To The Dentist?
This is a great question! Children should visit a dentist for the first time as soon as their first tooth comes out. If no teeth appear within 12 months, you should schedule an appointment with a professional. This is an extreme case, but you should visit a pediatric dentist beforehand in case other problems such as tongue ties occur.
We recommend, as does the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, that children visit a dentist at least twice a year, every six months. Visiting a dental health professional will ensure your child has correctly aligned teeth, that minor issues don’t become serious, and will include checks for cavities and decay.
Taking your children to dental visits will familiarize them with the situation and help to create a trusted environment. This is a good idea so that your children lose any fears they may have towards medical visits and will also create a lifelong habit.
What Can You See By Checking Your Children’s Mouths?
Oral hygiene is key at all stages of life to prevent dental issues and to keep your teeth healthy. We recommend you teach your children at a young age to take care of their teeth so that the routine and habits stay with them as they grow up. Here’s a list of symptoms you can look for when your children’s teeth start to pop out as long as they are underage:
White Spots: Chalky white spots on the teeth are uncommon, and they may indicate tooth decay. Make sure you schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist as soon as possible.- Sensitivity Or Pain: Pay attention in case your children experience pain or sensitivity when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sugary foods.
- Bad Breath: It is very unusual for children to have bad breath. If you notice this, even after they brush their teeth, it can be a symptom of tooth decay.
- Toothache: Unexplained toothaches or pains can be a symptom of cavities or decay.
- Strange Or Difficult Chewing: Pay attention to your child while they are eating. If you notice any difficulty or discomfort, it may be a sign of tooth decay.
- Swollen Gums: If your child shows redness in the gums or around one particular tooth, this may suggest an infection or decay.
- Changes In Tooth Colors: Dark or discolored tooth enamel is not normal in children, so we suggest you consult a pediatric dentist as soon as you notice this.
Schedule Your Child’s Dental Check-Up With Dr. Kiser Dental Today
We are experts in dental care and encourage patients of all ages to visit our clinic for regular checkups at least twice a year. Dr. Kiser also offers pediatric IV sedation for children undergoing other dental treatments, ensuring a comfortable and anxiety-free experience. Pediatric care depends on professional dentists to prevent minor issues from becoming major problems, but parents can also help to create hygiene habits in the little ones. Contact us to schedule an appointment. We hope to see you and your child soon!
Advanced Dentistry & Dental Implant Center
1221 S Trimble Rd Suite A1,
Mansfield, OH 44907
Tel: (419) 756-2880
Email: [email protected]
