Pediatric Dental Health

Primary teeth or “baby teeth” are very important to a child’s development. Not only do they help children learn to chew naturally and speak clearly, they also help to form a path that permanent teeth can follow when ready. This article was prepared to teach you the importance of pediatric dental health, and how to maintain your child’s healthy smile.

Start Early

The earlier your child starts to visit the dentist, the more likely you will prevent dental problems. Most dentists recommend a first visit by your child’s first birthday. The first visit can serve as a get-to-know session so your child can become familiar with the dentist, the dentist’s office, and the equipment. There are many dental offices specifically focused on children and teaching them about the importance of healthy teeth.

It is important to begin brushing your children’s teeth from the first tooth. Daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, limiting snacks and drinks with a lot of sugar, and having regular dental checkups is crucial to preventing tooth decay and improper formation of your child’s teeth.

Choosing the Right Dentist

Generally, the same considerations that apply to choosing a dentist for yourself apply to choosing a dentist for your child. There are, however, some additional considerations:

• Does the dentist have a special interest in treating children? Pediatric dentists specialize in treating children, but many general dentists treat children as well.
• Is the waiting room equipped for children, with toys, books and kid-size furniture?
• Will you be taught about your child’s tooth development, the causes and prevention of dental disease, and appropriate home care?
• Will your child be taught about caring for his or her teeth in ways he or she can understand?
• Sealants shut out food particles that can get caught in the teeth and cause cavities. They work by filling in the crevasses on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. Find out the dentist’s philosophy on sealants.

Remember, it is always best to schedule your child’s visit early in the day, as children tend to be more cooperative in the morning. Also, your wait will most-likely be shorter if you are one of the first appointments scheduled.

Once you have found a dentist that both you and your child are satisfied with, continue to schedule regular checkups. Even if your child never has a cavity, going to the dentist teaches your child good habits that they will keep for life.