Are you asking yourself: is a pediatric dentist necessary? If so, the answer is yes. Take a look at what you need to know today.
Are you getting ready to set up your child’s first visit to the dentist’s office? For all first-time parents, this can be a stressful experience. Even choosing the right dentist seems like a huge decision.
You might be wondering whether you should bring your child to a pediatric dentist or your general family dentist. Which is the right choice?
We’re here to talk about why you should visit the “best pediatric dentist near me” for your child. Keep reading to learn more.
When Does My Child Need a Pediatric Dentist?
Many parents don’t take their children to the dentist as soon as they should. This is understandable. They may think that it’s not necessary to see a dentist until their children are toddlers because they don’t yet have many teeth.
In reality, dentists recommend that children have their first pediatric dentist visit by the time they hit one year of age (or as soon as their first tooth erupts; whichever comes first). For most children, the first tooth will erupt within their first six months.
Once you notice that your child is teething, even if it’s just a single bump underneath their gums, start looking into your local “pediatric dentist near me” and schedule a visit!
Do Children Need to See a Dentist Regularly for Their Baby Teeth?
Did you know that it’s important for children to have regular dental visits even when they don’t yet have their permanent teeth? While it’s true that these teeth will fall out regardless of how well the child cares for them, they still matter!
It’s not uncommon for children to get cavities in their baby teeth. About one in five children between the ages of five and eleven have at least one untreated cavity!
While the cavities might seem inconsequential, untreated cavities can lead to gum disease in the future. Gum disease, while treatable, isn’t curable. A child who develops gum disease will have it forever.
A pediatric dentist will catch any and all dental problems before they become serious as long as you visit them routinely.
What Are the Benefits of a Pediatric Dentist?
So aside from catching cavities, why would you take your child to a pediatric dentist? Are there any reasons that pediatric dentists would be better than general family dentists for your child?
Here are a few benefits of taking your child to your local pediatric dentist.
Pediatric Dentists Understand Child-Specific Issues
While general and family dentists are more than capable of taking care of a wide range of dental health issues, pediatric dentists understand some of the intricacies that come with children’s oral health.
Pediatric dentists create specific treatment plans that work around the child’s health history and growth. General dentists don’t need to worry about growth because they usually work with adults who already have all of their teeth and a fully-formed set of jaws.
Pediatric dentists spend extra time learning about children’s oral health. While general dentists may extend their education if they choose to, they don’t specialize.
Acclimating Your Child to the Dentist Early On
Not only will taking your child to routine pediatric dentist visits protect their oral health, but it will also acclimate your child to the dentist while they’re still young.
Many people of all ages experience dental anxiety. Dental anxiety often causes people to put off visits to the dentist, which can harm their dental health in the long run even if they take good care of their oral health and hygiene.
When you don’t introduce your child to the dentist as early as possible, you increase their chance of having dental anxiety in the future.
A good pediatric dentist will know how to put your child at ease, even when they’re in the dentist’s chair awaiting treatment. They understand that children may experience more fear than adults, at least at first.
By introducing your child to a dentist who knows how to interact with them, you’ll make visiting the dentist a normal and almost enjoyable experience. This sets your child up for a future of good oral health and positive dentist’s office experiences.
Teaching Good Oral Hygiene Practices
Children aren’t born knowing how to take care of their teeth. Parents, who may not remember learning, often struggle to teach their children properly. This is normal, and it’s another reason that visiting a pediatric dentist is so important.
Pediatric dentists know how to explain oral health concepts in simple ways so children are able to understand them. Even before your child is old enough to understand, they can teach you how to take proper care of your child’s teeth.
From the time that you start brushing your child’s gums to whenever you start teaching your child to brush on their own, a pediatric dentist can help you every step of the way.
Great for Children With Behavioral Concerns
Even if you’ve taken your child to your general family dentist in the past, you may want to consider taking them to a pediatric dentist if they have behavioral concerns.
Pediatric dentists understand the extra struggles that can come from treating children with behavioral problems. They have the extra training and expertise required to help them calm those children and get them comfortable with visiting the dentist’s office.
Is It Time to Visit Your Local Pediatric Dentist?
So is a pediatric dentist necessary? Yes, if you want a dentist with the skills and experience to make your child’s dental visits stress-free. A good pediatric dentist knows how to address your child’s specific oral health concerns and keep your child as comfortable and calm as possible.
If you’re ready to start bringing your child to a local pediatric dentist in Frankfort, KY, we want to meet you! Contact us at Capitol Kids Dentistry to schedule an appointment today.
Recent Comments