How Often You Should See a Kid Friendly Dentist

Kid Friendly Dentist Marietta, OH

Taking your child to see a kid friendly dentist is an important part of oral and overall health.  Even though baby teeth will eventually fall out and be replaced by permanent ones, it is still essential to keep them clean and treat them for any issues that develop, even during young childhood. Failure to properly care for baby teeth can result in serious complications, including:

  • Digestive problems
  • speech issues
  • Severe decay or infection
  • Alignment issues
  • Extensive dental work in the future

Following the American Dental Association's recommendations for when and how often to see a kid friendly dentist can reduce the risks for serious issues while improving a child's dental health.

When to take your child to a kid friendly dentist

How often your child needs to visit the dentist may vary based on their individual situation. In general, most children follow the same schedule as adults when it comes to professional oral care.

The first checkup

Some parents assume they do not need to take their kids to visit a dentist until they are close to school age. However, the ADA recommends scheduling the first dental appointment before age 1, when the first baby teeth start to appear above the gum line. This initial appointment allows the dentist to check for proper development while making recommendations to parents as needed for home care. These early dental visits also help children acclimate to the process of having their teeth cleaned and examined while allowing them to become more comfortable with the setting and the staff.

Routine cleanings and exams

Beginning at age 1, children should continue to visit a kid friendly dentist every six months for a checkup and professional cleaning. Young children are especially prone to cavities, but early detection at these appointments can prevent the need for extensive and uncomfortable dental work. For example, some children may receive a topical application of silver diamine fluoride instead of a filling to help treat and slow the progression of a minor cavity that has not progressed too far. Professional cleanings also help reduce the risk of developing tooth decay by removing the tartar buildup that brushing and flossing leave behind.

At routine dental appointments, children may receive X-rays and other diagnostic screenings to check for proper development and potential issues below the surface. Many dentists also recommend topical fluoride treatments to strengthen tooth enamel and further protect against cavities. These are usually given at every checkup. Once a child reaches the age of 6, they may be ready for dental sealants, which offer yet another line of defense against tooth decay. According to the ADA, this simple and painless preventative treatment can reduce the risks of getting a cavity by as much as 80% in molars.

Dental problems

Sometimes, it is not wise to wait until the next routine appointment to visit a kid friendly dentist. Just as with adults, children should be seen promptly if they develop any symptoms that point to a dental problem. Usually, this involves unexplained tooth pain or sensitivity that lasts for more than a day or two. Some young children may not be able to articulate their dental pain, so parents should be mindful of nonverbal cues, such as refusing to eat, favoring one side when chewing, difficulty sleeping, or rubbing the area often.

Dental emergencies

There are situations that require immediate evaluation and treatment from a dentist, even for kids. These dental emergencies include signs of infection (severe pain, redness, fever, inflammation, bleeding, or pus), damage to a tooth (chips, cracks, or breaks), and a knocked-out tooth. Even if a baby tooth is damaged or knocked loose because of trauma, it is still important to see a dentist who can check for potential complications. In some instances, a dentist may recommend replacing a knocked-out baby tooth with a prosthetic device to prevent alignment problems.

Conclusion

There are many reasons a child should see a kid friendly dentist for regular evaluation and treatment. Starting around age 1, parents should expect to take their child to the dentist twice a year. These early appointments are critical for maintaining oral health and building good habits. However, routine visits are not the only reason to see a dentist. Kids should also be seen promptly if they experience severe damage, signs of infection, or symptoms of decay. Immediate treatment can prevent unnecessary complications while keeping teeth and gums healthy and strong.

Request an appointment here: https://www.mytotaldentistry.com or call McCarthy Dentistry at (740) 546-5178 for an appointment in our Marietta office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Kid Friendly Dentist in Marietta, OH.

Recent Posts

A Kid Friendly Dentist Can Help With Protection For Your Child's Teeth

Every parent wants to make sure their children are comfortable in the dentist’s chair at the earliest age, and a kid-friendly dentist is a must-have. The fear of going to the dentist is very real. People of all ages fear the dentist. The dentist’s office has caused anxiety and stress to patients everywhere. Nobody wants to…

Should Parents Take Their Child To A Kid Friendly Dentist In Marietta For White Spots On Teeth?

There are several reasons for parents and guardians of children to find a good kid friendly dentist in Marietta, not least of which is the need for taking action against sudden changes in kids' teeth. While those in charge of looking after the health and safety of children can sometimes become hypersensitive to changes, there…

How Soon Should A Child See A Kid Friendly Dentist In Marietta After Knocking Out A Permanent Tooth?

It can be important for parents and guardians of children to establish a solid relationship with a kid friendly dentist in Marietta for both emergency and non-emergency dental situations. Children are often prone to getting into mishaps or sports accidents, which in the worst cases may end up with a kid painfully knocking out permanent…

Tips For Taking Your Kids To A Family Dentist

Taking young children to the family dentist can be overwhelming at times, especially because they are more prone to dental fear and anxiety. However, dental care is essential for children, just as it is for adults, and should start at a very young age. The American Dental Association recommends that children visit the dentist as…

Recent Posts

The Advantages Of Seeing A Cosmetic Dentist

The Advantages Of Seeing A Cosmetic Dentist

Scheduling an appointment with a cosmetic dentist helps you get closer to receiving your dream smile. Cosmetic dentists offer various services to address everything you do not like about your teeth. Whether one tooth is causing the problem or all of them, they have what you need.A cosmetic dentist can brighten anyone's natural teeth up…

FAQs &#    ; Invisalign For Teeth Straightening

FAQs - Invisalign For Teeth Straightening

Invisalign® is popular because it offers a great way to achieve a straighter and more aligned smile. Straightening your teeth with Invisalign can help to improve your appearance. It can also improve your oral health. Read on to find out more about Invisalign treatment.Invisalign treatment involves wearing a series of aligners that are customized to…