When it comes to pediatric dentistry, parents often have a lot of questions. Here are some of the most popular questions that parents ask about pediatric dentistry.
When Should Dental Care Begin for my Child?
It is recommended that children have their first dental visit within six months of getting their first tooth, or by their first birthday. This allows the dentist to assess your child’s oral health and development, and provide you with information on how to care for your child’s teeth.
What Does Pediatric Dentistry Involve?
At Timpanogos Pediatric Dentistry, our practice involves the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of dental problems in children. It also involves providing preventive care and education to parents on how to care for their child’s teeth.
What to Expect at Your Child’s First Pediatric Dental Visit
At the first pediatric dental visit, parents can expect the dentist to assess their child’s oral health and development. The dentist will also provide information on how to care for their child’s teeth. Depending on the age of the child, the dentist may also clean their teeth and apply fluoride.
WHAT DOES A DENTIST LOOK AT IN A CHILD’S MOUTH?
If your child doesn’t have any teeth yet, you may be wondering what the dentist even looks at during the first pediatric dental visit. Well, besides checking out the health of teeth, a dentist also looks at the gums and the mouth as a whole for any problems. They will also assess the child’s oral health and development, and provide information on how to care for their child’s teeth. Depending on the age of the child, the pediatric dentist may also clean their teeth and apply fluoride sealants.
What is fluoridation?
Fluoridation is the process of adding fluoride to the water supply. Fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay by making the teeth more resistant to acid attacks. Fluoridation is a safe and effective way to help reduce the incidence of cavities in children.
What are sealants?
Sealants are thin, clear coatings that are applied to the back teeth to help prevent tooth decay. Sealants are usually applied to children’s teeth as a preventive measure.
When Do Children Get Their First Teeth?
Most children get their first teeth around six months of age, but it can vary from child to child. Some infants may get a tooth as early as four months, while others may not have a tooth until their first birthday.
How Do You Know Your Child Needs Braces?
A pediatric dentist can assess if your child needs braces. Some common signs that your child may need braces include:
- Crowded or crooked teeth
- Bite problems (e.g., overbite, underbite)
- Jaw pain or discomfort
While your pediatric dentist may not also practice orthodontics, they can offer insight into the process and how to proceed if braces are needed.
How early can children get braces?
While there is no definitive answer, most children usually get braces between the ages of 9 and 14. If you have concerns about your child’s teeth and braces, you can ask your pediatric dentist for a referral to an orthodontist.
How Do I Care For My Child’s Teeth at Home?
It is important to start cleaning your child’s teeth as soon as they erupt. You can use a soft, wet cloth to wipe their teeth and gums. Once your child has a few teeth, you can start using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Be sure to brush gently and supervise your child while they are brushing.
What Do I Do If My Child Has a Dental Emergency?
If your child has a dental emergency, such as a toothache, chipped tooth, or knocked-out tooth, it is important to seek dental care right away.
What happens if a child is missing a tooth?
If a child is missing a tooth, the pediatric dentist will assess if the child needs a dental appliance to replace the missing tooth. Dental appliances such as dental implants, bridges, and dentures can help to restore the child’s smile.
What are Common Dental Problems in Children?
Some common dental problems in children include tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. It is important to take steps to prevent these problems by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and eating a balanced diet. If your child does develop a dental problem, the pediatric dentist can provide treatment.
How Often Should My Child See the Dentist?
It is recommended that children see the dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning, beginning when they’re six months old. However, some children may need to be seen more frequently depending on their oral health.
My child is afraid of the dentist. What can I do?
It is common for children to be afraid of the dentist. There are many things that you can do to help ease your child’s anxiety, such as:
- Choose a pediatric dentist who has experience working with children.
- Find a pediatric dentist who has a kid-friendly office.
- Explain to your child what to expect at the dental appointment.
- Reassure your child that the dentist will be gentle.
- Bring along a favorite toy or blanket to the appointment.
Timpanogos Pediatric Dentistry has some suggestions for bringing special needs children to the dentist HERE. You may find it helpful regardless of what is causing your child to be nervous about the dentist.
If we can help you get your child more familiar and comfortable with dental care, feel free to give us a call at (801) 207-9080.