Children need to visit the dentist for routine preventive visits, just as adults do. Otherwise, minor oral health issues can impact the development of their smile. When should your child start seeing the dentist? What happens during the first children’s dentistry visit?
The First Visit
The first visit with the dentist should occur within six months of the first baby tooth’s arrival. During this visit the dentist rarely offers treatment, instead we simply examine the smile to ensure the teeth are erupting properly and that the smile is free of any issues with the development of the teeth, jaw, or oral tissues.
Routine Checkups and Cleanings
Once your child turns three, he or she should undergo a routine dental exam and cleaning once every six months. During each visit, we will carefully monitor the smile for signs of tooth decay, gingivitis, or developing misalignment. We can also look for issues with oral tissue development that may require solutions for sleep disordered breathing. A cleaning allows our team to remove plaque and reduce the risk of tooth decay. In addition, these visits also help children become accustomed to seeing the dentist, decreasing the chances of dental anxiety later in life.
Preventive and Restorative Care
We can also administer preventive treatments, such as fluoride treatments and dental sealants. Fluoride strengthens the outer enamel and protects the teeth from cavities. Dental sealants are a plastic coating placed over the hard-to-reach rear teeth to prevent food from becoming stuck between them. The procedure helps safeguard smiles against cavities as well. Should your child develop a cavity or injure a tooth, we can repair it using composite resin for a lifelike filling or dental bonding procedure. If you have any questions about treating smiles and preventing the onset of issues, or if your child is ready for a checkup and cleaning, then contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About Children’s Dentistry?
Dr. Lawson and our team are ready to provide a caring and personalized approach to children’s dental care. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling our sleep dentistry office in Urbandale, IA, at 515-278-4366.
