When Should You Take Your Child to the Dentist?
As a parent, you will experience many milestones, like seeing the first tooth come in and visiting the dentist for the first time. Our team at Roam Dental is excited to meet your little one and looks forward to setting the stage for healthy smiles that last a lifetime. You can count on us for exceptional care for every member of your family!
Why Care for Baby Teeth?
Even though they will eventually fall out, baby teeth are important to your child’s future oral health. They act like placeholders, maintaining the space the permanent teeth need to come in, ensuring their correct alignment. They also help with speech development and make it easier to chew and eat.
If your child loses a baby tooth before its permanent replacement is ready to erupt, the neighboring teeth may drift toward the gap. That can lead to tooth crooked teeth and a crowded mouth, requiring future orthodontic treatment.
When Should You First Take Your Child to the Dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends scheduling a child’s first dental appointment when the first tooth erupts or by the first birthday at the latest. Caring for your child’s teeth right from the start will help lay the foundation for good dental health into adulthood.
During the first dental visit, we will take your baby or toddler’s medical and dental history and ask if you have any concerns. Next, we will check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other dental problems and ensure your child’s oral health and development are on track. We are happy to provide recommendations on proper oral hygiene practices to ensure your child’s smile stays clean and bright.
How Do Dental Exams and Cleanings Enhance Your Child’s Oral Health
After the initial visit, most children require dental checkups and cleanings every six months. These visits allow us to identify and treat any dental problems as they develop, preventing them from progressing and requiring extensive treatments down the road. Professional cleanings are also important for your child’s teeth because they remove plaque and tartar buildup, which lowers the risk of cavities and keeps your child’s smile clean and fresh.
What Can You Expect During Dental Exams and Cleanings?
We will thoroughly examine your child’s teeth, gums, and dental work to ensure everything is in tip-top shape. When your child is about 3-4 years old, we may recommend dental x-rays to detect early decay between the teeth or hidden concerns inside the teeth or under the gums.
After evaluating your child’s oral health, our dental hygienist will gently remove plaque and tartar buildup from around the teeth and gum line. We typically recommend fluoride treatments after professional dental cleanings to strengthen the tooth enamel and lower the risk of cavities. Our dental hygienist will also talk to you and your child about healthy oral hygiene habits and demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques.
Children’s Dentistry Services Near Me in Shelby Township, MI
If you’re looking for a practice where you and your child can get exceptional dental care, we invite you to visit Roam Dental. Dr. Barbu and his kid-friendly team are committed to providing quality preventive services for long-term healthy and beautiful smiles. We invite you to call 586-500-ROAM (7626) to schedule your child’s appointment or book one online today! We look forward to caring for all your family’s dental needs.