Regular Office Visits Can Protect Your Child's Long-Term Dental Health

When a child’s primary teeth begin to grow in, it’s important to begin dental care. Children need to be taught about dental hygiene, so they develop healthy habits and strong teeth.

Truthfully, dental care for a child begins before they are even born. In the mother’s womb, the baby absorbs calcium and other minerals and nutrients necessary for developing teeth. After this, the next dental milestone is when their primary teeth appear. At this stage, parents should begin brushing their child’s teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste. Then, around their first birthday, they should have their first visit to the dentist. After their first birthday, your child should visit the dentist every 6 months.

Benefits of Regular Dentist Visits During Childhood

Your child will have gentle cleanings at each visit to remove plaque and tartar that would otherwise create cavities. Teeth that are professionally cleaned regularly develop less decay, so your child will have healthy teeth for a long time.

During a visit, your dentist can show you how your child’s jaws, teeth, and facial structure are developing. You can also ask them questions or voice concerns about things such as thumb-sucking or teething.

Some people believe that primary teeth don’t need to be cared for because they will fall out anyway. This is not true. Primary teeth that are not cleaned properly will lead to already decaying adult teeth.

Fear of the dentist is common in all ages. However, if your child is introduced to the dentist early and visits often, they will be less likely to develop that fear, because the dentist, examination chair, and dental tools will be familiar to them.

Is it time for your child’s first dentist visit? Call or stop by Ridge View Dental to make an appointment!