At What Age Should a Kid Start Seeing a Children’s Dentist?

A children's dentist has the necessary training to handle issues in children. These dentists can care for your child’s teeth, gums, and mouth during childhood. But parents might not know the right time to take the child to a dentist. Keep reading to find out more about the ideal age to see a children’s dentist.

The first dental visit for children

The baby teeth, or primary teeth, are just as vital as the permanent teeth are. It is beneficial to take care of the baby teeth because these have many vital functions. For instance, they help with good nutrition since the teeth allow for chewing. The teeth also help to guide the permanent ones into place since space is held for them. Often, children’s dentists recommend the first visit be by the age of 1.

Providing good dental care

Parents should take the child to the dentist younger than the age of 1. This might be around six months after the first tooth comes in. But the latest to have the first appointment is by the age of 1. There are several reasons this is the right time to take the child in. Tooth decay can happen as soon as the first tooth is in.

Many parents wonder why tooth decay is an issue in the baby teeth. After all, the permanent teeth will eventually replace them. But the issue is that tooth decay in these teeth can cause more decay in the permanent teeth. If this is severe enough, it might harm the overall health of the child.

With untreated tooth decay, many issues can occur. This includes tooth loss and infections. It can result in the need for emergency interventions. The pain might also prevent the child from eating properly. That can impact the child’s health.

Benefits of early dental visits

It is important to protect the child’s teeth by starting dental care as early as possible. Some children’s dentists recommend a visit before the baby teeth come in. This can help a child to minimize tooth decay and cavities. Early tooth decay is easy to spot by a children’s dentist.

This type of dentist can also determine the child’s need for fluoride. They can give the parents information on facial development. Early care can also save the parent money. Those who do not visit the dentist until the age of 2 or 3 might need more emergency care.

Choose a children’s dentist today

It is important to prioritize the care of your child’s baby teeth. When these teeth are strong and healthy, the child can chew and speak well. The teeth also leave space in the child’s jaws for the permanent teeth to come in under the gums. The first dental visit should happen when the first baby tooth appears. But it should not be later than the first birthday. If you have other questions, make an appointment with a children’s dentist today.

Request an appointment here: https://www.texasstarsmiles.com or call Texas Star Smiles & Fastbraces at (254) 237-1342 for an appointment in our Killeen office.

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