According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, parents should take their children to visit a dentist for kids twice a year. These biannual visits enable the dentist to monitor the child's dental development, assess changes in the mouth, and offer recommendations for the child's oral health. That said, the child may need a dental checkup before the regular date.
The dentist will determine the frequency of a child's dental checkups after considering certain factors, including the risk of dental cavities, the number of cavity cases in the past, and the health risks associated with having dental decay (e.g., if the child has a health condition such as heart disease or diabetes). To accurately assess the child's risk of cavities, the dentist for kids will evaluate the child's diet, level of oral hygiene practices, and the amount of fluoride that the child receives.
Whether the child is a toddler, child, or adolescent, the dentist will give the parents the results of the cavity risk assessment. A child who has minimal risk of developing cavities may only need one dental checkup per year. Children at high risk may need to visit as often as four times per year. As the child grows older, the dentist for kids will likely recommend a dental checkup once every six months. During these visits, the dental team will provide suggestions on proper brushing, flossing, and diet. The exams also enable the dentist to detect cavities early, preventing the need for costly dental procedures later.
The dentist will do a thorough medical history check and examine the child's teeth and jaw during their initial visit to the office. Parents need to inform the dentist if the child's health has changed since their last appointment. Here are the steps to anticipate during a child's dental checkups.
Regular visits to the pediatric dentist every six months are suggested for optimal oral health, but children with persistent problems, like cavities, gum irritation, or tooth decay, should see the dentist every three months. It is essential to ensure adequate cleaning and that the adult teeth will emerge in a healthy oral environment because recurring concerns may become troublesome for children just beginning to form dental habits. Taking care of the baby teeth is crucial so the adult teeth can come in without problems.
Decay or cavities progress faster in baby teeth than adult teeth because the enamel is thinner. During the child's appointment, the dentist for kids will perform essential tasks, such as checking that the teeth are erupting when they are due and in the right position. Also, the information that parents learn from the dentist is crucial for the child's oral development. Parents must know how to keep their children's teeth free of cavities because it is a routine that the child will hopefully maintain into adulthood.
Regular dental visits teach the children the importance of dentist appointments and help them cultivate good dental habits. It also familiarizes them with the way that dental appointments work and enables them to create a lasting relationship with the dentist. This is important in case of future dental procedures.
Usually, the decision on how often a child has dental checkups should be made by the dentist, the parent, and the child. It is common for the dentist, as the expert, to make the recommendation, though the parent and the patient should be able to ask questions if they do not understand the reason. Also, if anything happens, such as a dental emergency, parents can always book an appointment ahead of their due date.
Request an appointment here: https://nettsmiles.com or call Nett Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics at (623) 759-7658 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Kid Friendly Dentist in Phoenix, AZ.
Does your child need a baby root canal? Read on to learn more about this restoration. Pediatric dentists typically prioritize prevention, mostly to avoid procedures like a baby root canal. However, sometimes, a root canal can be suggested when a primary tooth is severely damaged. For parents, this might be surprising. Since the baby's teeth…
Wondering what a dentist for kids recommends for preventing cavities? Read on to learn more. Parents often have problems getting their kids to practice good oral hygiene. Children’s affinity for sugary treats can make them develop cavities, which can be painful. They can also be susceptible to other dental problems. You can talk to a…
Dental fillings from your kid friendly dentist can improve your child’s dental health. Cavities are a common dental problem among kids. Fillings are the quickest, most readily available treatments for this type of dental issue. Your pediatric dentist can even offer different types of fillings that can fit your child’s needs. Here are some questions…
A dentist for kids, formally called a pediatric dentist, is the right person to talk to about the benefits of getting your children early dental care. A child’s dental health is just as important as other aspects of their physical development. Teeth are designed to last a lifetime when properly cared for, which includes good…
A key goal of pediatric dentistry is establishing healthy oral hygiene habits early to promote long-term oral health. With guidance from a pediatric dentist, parents can help their children understand how to maintain clean and healthy teeth at home. This early exposure can make healthy habits — like brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and eating…
Dental sealants are one of the most powerful preventive care treatments for kids. Because children are especially vulnerable to cavities, parents need all the help they can get to help their kids fight tooth decay. Through this simple and pain-free procedure, your child can get powerful and long-lasting cavity protection on some of their most…