According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, it is recommended that kids see the dentist for the first time by the age of 12 months - or within six months of getting their first tooth.
Did you know that kids of all ages are susceptible to tooth decay? Routine dental checkups are a very important part of a child’s growth and development. After all, they can prevent complex dental issues and ensure that the teeth are coming in properly.
Let’s talk about how often kids should go to their pediatric dentist.
Routine Dental Visits
Kids should visit their dentist regularly - every 6 months - as a means of preventative care for their oral health.
These visits typically include a dental cleaning and examination. Occasionally, dental x-rays, dental sealants, fluoride treatments, etc. may also be included. However, this will likely depend on the age of the patient. For infants and toddlers, these visits are more about monitoring growth and educating the parents on how to care for their little one’s teeth.
Importance of Routine Dental Visits
While your pediatric dentist always enjoys a visit from you and your child, the purpose of these visits goes much deeper.
Routine dental visits come with many important benefits that will allow your child to have strong teeth and an overall healthy mouth.
Reduce Decay
Children may brush their teeth every day, but they don’t always reach every corner and crevice in their mouth - especially the younger ones. As a result, bacteria left behind can begin to build up and lead to tooth decay.
With regular dental visits, thorough exams can expose these areas and allow them to be treated early. This reduces the need for more complex dental treatment.
Maintain Strong Teeth
The enamel is the first line of defense against decay. So ensuring that the child's enamel is strong can provide many benefits for their future oral health – and the ability to keep decay from breaking down the enamel barrier.
With routine cleanings, treatments such as fluoride can offer strength to the enamel to reduce the chance of decay. Further, dental sealants also offer protection by sealing off the outside surface so that nothing can penetrate it.
Establish Good Habits
Developing good oral hygiene habits early is so important for a lifetime of oral health. This means getting kids comfortable with coming to the dentist regularly is so important. They can get acclimated to the sights, sounds, people, and overall experience.
During these routine visits, dental cleanings will often take place, as well as a comprehensive oral exam. The dental team will also educate the patient on proper oral hygiene and why it is so necessary to make it an everyday habit.
All of these reasons give kids the best chance for a healthy mouth.
Looking for Pediatric Dental Services?
Maintaining regular dental appointments for your child is the best way to secure a strong foundation for oral health in the future. It’s never too late to start.
At Pediatric Dental Associates of Clinton, we provide a comprehensive list of dental services to meet the needs of our young patients.
To learn more, contact us today at 908-735-6300. Or, request an appointment online.