If children lose their baby teeth, why does it matter that they see a dentist for regular care? Because their “first” smile affects the health, alignment and development of their permanent teeth.
Like adults, children should see a dentist for a checkup every six months. While we’re establishing healthy habits and a great relationship with young patients, there are crucial services available that can reduce the extent of dental problems your child experiences in the future.
Pit and Fissure Sealants
Dental sealants are placed on the chewing surfaces of adult molars as soon as these permanent teeth start to erupt (usually around 6 and 12 years of age). As thin protective layers, they block out bacteria and food debris from settling inside the deep grooves and fissures in a tooth’s natural anatomy.
Sealants take just a few minutes to place — and no numbing is needed — so we can work them into your child’s routine appointment.
Orthodontic Evaluations
The alignment of your child’s teeth and jaws can have a huge impact on their facial profile, speech development, TMJ pain, cavity risk and gum health.
Dental experts recommend that every child has an orthodontic evaluation by the time they turn 7 years old. At this stage in development, most children have a combination of primary (baby) and permanent (adult) teeth.
Should we pinpoint an issue such as crowding, premature tooth loss, cross bite or other malocclusion (biting) concern, early interceptive therapies can start treating the problem before it requires extensive orthodontic treatment years later.
Early Preventative Care
Make bringing your child in for a dental checkup a part of your regular six-month routine. During the visit we can check for changes since the last visit, pinpointing weak enamel before an active cavity is present. Other common dental issues can be treated earlier.
Early care serves three purposes. It…
- Keeps the cost of your treatment as low as possible
- Limits the extent of treatment your child needs in the future
- Ensures the most comfortable option for your child
When Should Your Child See a Dentist?
Most paediatricians and paediatric dentists recommend scheduling a dental checkup around the time your child’s first tooth erupts, or no later than their first birthday. Early visits make it easier to ensure a positive experience for each child, but also allow us to oversee your child’s orofacial development.
Book a Checkup Today
Contact us today to schedule a visit for your entire family.
