Pediatric Dentistry – Facts to Consider

Are you a parent wondering what to do when your child’s teeth start coming in?

Knowing when to begin children’s dentistry or bring them in for their first dental appointment can be tricky.

Just like learning to read, it’s great to start your child’s healthy teeth journey early. They’ll carry those habits into adulthood when they learn to care for their teeth early.

This blog will provide facts and tips to help you and your child develop strong and healthy teeth.

Tooth decay is the most common disease in children in the U.S.

• If not properly managed, bacteria in the mouth can lead to plaque and tooth decay.
• To get rid of tooth decay, your dentist will remove all the decay and replace it with a filling.
• Proper oral hygiene care, including brushing and flossing, can help eliminate plaque-causing bacteria.

Cavities are preventable

• Fluoride is great at preventing cavities. If your child has fluoride in their toothpaste, it can help restore their enamel.
• Sealants are also available for your child’s first teeth. They go on your child’s back teeth to help fill in gaps and prevent decay.

A Child should visit the dentist by the time they are one year old

• Dental care for kids starts as early as possible, and your child needs to see their pediatric dentist early to ensure they are growing correctly and to enforce proper oral hygiene.
• Baby teeth are as important as adult teeth because they help your child’s speech development and create room for adult teeth. A baby’s first dentist visit is possibly the most important.

Benefits of early action

Taking your child to a pediatric dentist early can benefit their oral health and development. Here are some of the key benefits of early pediatric dental care:

Establishing good oral hygiene habits early on

Starting your child’s dental care early can help establish good oral hygiene habits that will stick with them for life. Your child can avoid common dental problems like cavities and gum disease by learning how to care for their teeth and gums properly. Part of this care is correct dental cleaning.

Preventing dental problems before they occur

Regular visits to the pediatric dentist can help identify and address dental issues early before they become more serious and costly to treat. For example, sealants and fluoride treatments can help prevent cavities, while early orthodontic intervention can help correct bite problems and prevent more serious issues.

Supporting overall health and development

Oral health is closely linked to overall health and well-being. Poor oral health can contribute to a range of health problems, from infections and inflammation to heart disease and diabetes. Taking your child to the pediatric dentist early can help support their overall health and development.

Building a positive relationship with dental care

For many children, going to the dentist can be a scary or anxiety-provoking experience. Starting early can help build a positive relationship between your child and their dental care providers, making future visits more comfortable and stress-free.

Candy is not the only cause of cavities

• Although candy significantly impacts your child’s teeth and decay, it is not the only cause of cavities.
• Different types of foods cause decay, including starches and bread. The bacteria in carbohydrates affect your child’s teeth.
• Brushing your child’s teeth after eating these foods can help prevent cavities from forming.

Sports can cause dental injuries

• Children who participate in sports tend to have more dental injuries.
• Your child should wear proper protection during their activities, including mouth guards and helmets.

Not sure when to start? Why not now?

What better time than now if you haven’t scheduled your child’s first dental appointment?

It’s good to start children’s dentistry early to ensure they receive the proper care before too late.

Early pediatric dental care invests in your child’s long-term health and well-being.

By ensuring that your child’s teeth and gums are healthy from an early age, you can set them up for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Call one of our pediatric dentist offices today to schedule your child’s first appointment!

• Call us at 864-606-0006
• Email us at boilingsprings@igrin.com

Editor’s note: This post was originally published on July 5, 2022, and has been completely revamped for comprehensiveness and timeliness.

iGrin Pediatric Dentistry serves young smiles in Boiling Springs, Powdersville, SC, and welcomes visitors from the neighboring areas.