As parents, we know how concerned you are about getting your kids off to the very best start in life. That includes taking good care of their oral health. The American Association of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that their first visit take place when their first tooth appears or by their first birthday.

But after that first visit to a Lexington pediatric dentist, how often do you need to take them? It’s normal to wonder whether it’s really important to visit the dentist that often. After all, your kids are going to lose their primary teeth in just a few years.

Let’s take a look at how kids’ teeth develop and how often they need to see the dentist.

How Important Are Primary Teeth?

Whether you call them deciduous teeth, baby teeth, or primary teeth they are important to your child’s health. Strong primary teeth allow them to eat a wide range of foods. And it’s important to train your children to care for their teeth, even though these little ones are only going to hang around for six years of so.

If they get into the good habit of cleaning their baby teeth, it’ll be much easier for them to carry on when their adult teeth come through. Also, decay and premature removal of baby teeth can have a big impact on your child’s development, both emotionally and physically.

Let them watch you brush your teeth so they can see how it’s done. Continue to supervise them when they brush their teeth until they’re old enough to do it responsibly. And now for the crucial question – how often should they visit the dentist?

How Often Should Children Visit the Dentist?

Kids need to visit the children’s dentist in Richmond every six months – just like adults. Start them early and you’ll get them into a good habit of oral care that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.

Some children may benefit from visiting the dentist more regularly, every three months or so. This is true if your dentist suspects that there are some developmental issues at play. This could include malocclusion – when your child does not have a good bite.

Malocclusion can make it more difficult for your child to eat and even speak clearly. Treating these issues during childhood can be more successful than waiting until the teen years. Your Lexington children’s dentist will keep an eye on these issues and will refer you to an orthodontist for what is called ‘phase 1’ treatment.

What Are the Benefits of Regular Visits to the Dentist?

Regular trips to the dentist will ensure your child’s teeth look and feel great. But there are more benefits beside these that you may not have considered.

Reduced Dental Anxiety

A recent report showed that approximately 9% of children and teens in America suffer from dental anxiety. When you take your child regularly to a Georgetown pediatric dentistry clinic this shouldn’t be an issue.

Dental anxiety can lead to negative outcomes for kids. They may not obtain needed treatments and may find dental visits overwhelming. As good oral health is crucial to good general health, it can affect their overall wellbeing as well. 

Spotting Orthodontic Issues Early

Another benefit is that problems and worrying trends can be spotted early. If your child’s pacifier use or thumb sucking is creating dental issues, this can be identified and address early. Also as mentioned, malocclusion can be spotted and treated while your child is still young and the bones are still developing.

Educating Children and Preventing Dental Issues

Dentistry for children is not just about treating dental issues. It’s also about education and preventative dentistry.

Your dentist is there to help you child to understand the importance of dental hygiene. He or she can train your child how to care for their own teeth and why it’s important. They’ll show them how to brush and floss their teeth in the correct way.

The best pediatric dentist for your kids is one who practices preventative dentistry. This involves regular checkups and treatments such as dental sealants. They can help protect your child’s primary teeth from developing caries.

Keeping Gums Healthy

Our teeth are only as healthy as our gums! From childhood on, we’re all at risk of developing periodontal disease. These are bacterial infections that can inflame and, over time, cause our gums to shrink.

Children are more susceptible to the milder form of the disease, known as gingivitis. This can develop because of genetic factors, certain illnesses, and through poor oral hygiene. As your child’s body develops during puberty they are also at a greater risk of developing gum disease.

During a check-up, your Lexington pediatric dentist will examine your child’s gums. They’ll be able to notice problems before they become serious. Your dentist will advise you and your child on how to fix them.

Access to Child-Friendly Treatments

We all hate having toothache and it’s even worse to watch our child suffering this way.

Pediatric dentists can make dentistry for children as pain-free and pleasant as possible. This includes using sedation dentistry that helps children to be very relaxed or even sleep through their treatment. This is also ideal for children with special needs who may be very anxious about dental treatments.

Choose Dentistry for Children as Your Lexington Pediatric Dentist

If you’re looking for a Lexington pediatric dentist, then you’re already in the right place.

At Dentistry for Children, we specialize in providing the very best and kindest dentistry for children. We have locations in Lexington, Georgetown, and Richmond. We’re conveniently located for all your child’s dental needs.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment.