Finding the right dentist for kids can have a lasting effect on how your child feels about the dentist’s office. Good experiences with a pediatric dentist can guarantee that the child grows up with good oral habits. The child can become an adult with healthy teeth and uneventful dental visits.
So, where should a parent start in the effort to find their child a capable and friendly pediatric dentist? Also, when should the child make their first visit to a kids’ dentist? Keep reading to find out the role of a kids’ dentist in the long-term oral health of young patients.
A pediatric dentist has the specialized training necessary to treat conditions unique to children. They learn how to deal with the diverse needs of child patients, which goes a long way toward putting them at ease during treatment. A kids’ dentist is in a position to offer care at every stage of a child’s development. Parents should see that the ideal dentist for their child checks the following boxes:
These broad guidelines act as a starting point in the caregiver’s search for a children’s dentist. But when and how often should a child see the dentist?
A child should have their first visit with the dentist right around the time that they start teething. Parents can schedule the baby’s first dentist appointment within six months of the eruption of their first baby teeth. Alternatively, take the child to see the dentist at 12 months if their first teeth fail to erupt by then.
This visit should be more of a meet and greet, so caregivers and the baby can become familiar with the dentist. More importantly, these early visits enable the dentist to pass on the following helpful information:
This first meeting is also an opportunity for caregivers to ask the dentist any questions that they may have.
A child should see a kids’ dentist once every six months, barring some sort of dental or oral health issue that necessitates more frequent visitations. These routine visits enable the dentist to monitor the growth and development of the child’s entire oral cavity. They are also important as an early warning system if the child develops an oral health issue. Parents should also visit the child’s dentist when they notice an issue with their child’s teeth and gums.
Children should stick with a kids’ dentist until all their permanent teeth come in. A pediatric dentist can see patients through their late teenage years. The patient will tell their parent or caregiver when they are ready to switch to a general dentist.
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Our pediatric practice has a dentist for kids who cares for young patients of all ages. Get in touch if you are near Gainesville to find out more.
Request an appointment or call Easy Dental Care at 703-651-1566 for an appointment in our Gainesville office.
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