When should my child go to the dentist? This is a common concern among parents. The answer to this question is contingent on several factors, including your child’s age and oral health history.
Here at Downtown Franklin Family Dentistry, we recommend that you wait until your child is three years old to take them to the dentist. If your child exhibits any signs of tooth decay or other oral health issues, you should bring them in sooner. If you would prefer to bring your child in before they turn three, we can go over a few tips on how to start good oral health habits.
Additionally, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children should be taken to the dentist at least twice each year for a check-up. The dentist will look for signs of tooth decay, enlarged tonsils and teach your child how to brush and floss their teeth properly during these check-ups.
What If My Child Has A History of Poor Oral Hygiene?
To keep a close eye on their teeth and gums, children should visit the dentist regularly. The ADA recommends that parents should take their child to the dentist more frequently if they have recurring oral hygiene issues, such as tooth decay and bleeding gums. A family dentist, such as Dr. Abrams, will be able to create a treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs to help them maintain good oral health.
Should My Child Have Dental X-Rays?
There are two types of x-rays that are important to take on children. The first type is called occlusal films. These show that the developing adult teeth are present in the bone and that there are no missing teeth . The other type of x-rays are called bitewing x-rays. These show decay that may not be visible on a routine exam. If we see anything abnormal on the images, we will inform you and recommend the proper treatment. We use the latest x-ray technology, which reduces the radiation exposure significantly from traditional analog x-rays.
Typical Children's Dental Health Issues
Tooth decay is the most common dental problem among children. It’s caused by bacteria that live in the mouth. If left untreated, oral conditions, such as tooth decay, can lead to severe oral health issues, such as and even tooth loss.
As a parent, you can help your children avoid tooth decay by teaching them how to brush and floss their teeth properly and providing them with a low-sugar diet.
The Benefits of Taking Your Child for Dental Checkups at Downtown Franklin Family Dentistry
There are numerous advantages to taking your child to the dentist at an early age. Early detection and treatment of dental issues can help you avoid more serious oral health problems later in life. The following are the main advantages:
• It aids in developing good oral hygiene habits from a young age;
• Your child will get used to going to the dentist and not be afraid of dental appointments;
• Regular check-ups can help in the early detection of any potential dental problems;
• Professional advice on caring for your child’s teeth will be given;
• Regular dental visits can aid in the prevention of severe oral health issues in the future.
Choosing a Dentist for Children
When looking for a dentist for your child, look for a dentist who has experience and is qualified to treat children. Dr. Abrams specializes in family dentistry and sees children of all ages. Don’t hesitate to contact Downtown Franklin Family Dentistry if you have any questions about when your child should see a dentist or to make an appointment for your child to have a consultation with Dr. Abrams. This will allow you to meet our dentist and ask any questions you might have. Our always friendly team is here to make your child’s dental experience a positive one!
