A pediatric dentist is qualified to deal with child-specific problems. You will take good care after your baby’s teeth , mouth, and gums during the numerous childhood stages. Typically parents aren’t sure when to take kids for seeing pediatric dentists, however. Read on to know about your child’s perfect age, and see a pediatric dentist accordingly.
First visit
Baby teeth (also called primary teeth) are as essential as adult permanent teeth. It is important to take good care of baby teeth, as the teeth have several vital functions. Baby teeth encourage healthy nutrition by enabling the chewing, helping the development of speech and helping the proper growth of adult dentition by making appropriate room for them. In general, pediatric dentists recommend a dental examination for children by age 1.
Parents with dental insurance are generally recommended to carry kids to the dentist at an earlier age. It is mostly around 6 months from the first tooth eruption, or at the latest by around 12 months.Tooth decay can happen between the ages of 6 and 12 months as soon as a child’s first tooth comes out. This is why a pediatric dental visit at this age is nothing but a purely preventive measure.
Some parents typically ask why they would care about decay in primary teeth, because they would be replaced by permanent teeth. The concern is that tooth decay in baby teeth raises the likelihood of permanent teeth being decayed. If the decay is serious, it can affect the overall health of a child as well.
Undetected and untreated tooth decay can lead to many issues including teeth loss, infection, and, in many cases, emergency and restorative treatments that can be avoided. The discomfort associated with tooth decay can also prevent a baby from eating properly which has an effect on overall health and development.
Advantages of early pediatric dental visits
Protecting children’s teeth by beginning dental check ups early is advantageous. Some pediatric dentists suggest that patients consult them before the first baby tooth shows up. This is vital as it helps the child to begin a lifelong dental care plan to prevent cavities and deterioration of the tooth.
Pediatric dentists can identify early decay of the tooth, determine fluoride needs and provide information about good oral and facial development to the parents. Parents can also save money by seeing a pediatric dentist early. It is important to remember that children who wait until age 2 or 3 to have their first dental appointment have a high risk of needing restorative and emergency visits.
Finding the best pediatric dentist
You must understand the importance of having a proper pediatric dentist by your side. The proper treatment of your child’s primary teeth must always be given priority. Good, powerful baby teeth will get your child talking and chewing perfectly. Such teeth also hold the space for the permanent teeth that develop under the gums in your child’s jaws. The first dental examination will take place within 6 months of the first baby tooth of your child emerging but no later than the first birthday of your infant. If you have any other questions about why dental care is relevant during your child’s first year of life, contact the best pediatric dentist in Bradley IL near you.
