Most parents do not take their children to see a family dentist until they are well over two years of age. Dental professionals recommend that a child should visit the dentist within six months after teething starts. Baby teeth often start coming in from six months of age. Continue reading to learn more about children’s dental appointments.
If the child’s first dental appointment is only a meeting with the dentist, then taking them at age two might be more realistic and appropriate. However, that first appointment might be because of an emergency. Children can be unpredictable, and if they had a bad fall at the playground and chipped or broke their teeth, their first appointment might be one born of trauma. Now, the chances are that the child may have difficulty letting a stranger touch or treat them.
Sadly, these cases occur regularly, where a child’s first dental visit is because of a dental emergency, and it is almost impossible to get the child to cooperate. Often, drastic measures need to be taken so the dentist can examine the child and repair the damaged tooth. This is why family dentists usually recommend that parents bring the child to the dental office during their dental appointment.
The first appointment is not exactly for any major procedure. It is more for getting the child accustomed to the dentist’s office and exploring the different tools, and probably even sitting in the dental chair. The dental office is designed to keep the child comfortable, with lots of games, toys, and other entertainment options to keep them engaged. When the child is at ease, they might be more willing to let the dentist take a peek into their mouth.
The first appointment serves different purposes. It gets the child familiar with the dental team and office setting in a non-threatening setting – building trust is easier. Also, it allows the dentist to perform a quick dental exam. They will examine the child’s jaw, teeth, gums, and bite alignment, looking for signs of tooth decay or issues that may affect normal oral development or speech. The dentist will also discuss good oral hygiene, and the child will learn how to brush and floss in fun ways. This approach ensures that children cultivate a habit of preventive dental care throughout their lives.
After the first appointment, dental professionals recommend that children visit the office every six months, except for an emergency. The dentist will continue from the last appointment and determine if the child needs any form of preventive or interventive care. For instance, they might recommend dental sealants or fluoride application. When the child clocks three, they have full dental appointments, which may include dental x-rays and dental cleaning.
It is important that you do not wait until there is a dental emergency before taking the child to visit the family dentist. Book an appointment as soon as the child’s teeth start coming in.
Request an appointment here: https://clarisseatakhaniandds.com or call Clarisse Atakhanian DDS Inc. at (818) 483-9071 for an appointment in our Glendale office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Family Dentist in Glendale, CA.
A family dentist serves as the front line of defense for oral health and preventive care. They can see patients from childhood all the way through their lives, allowing for a level of continued care, attention, and personal knowledge that is unmatched among other types of dental offices. If you are considering what kind of…
A family dentist is a resource that many individuals are choosing to utilize as they offer convenience and ease for entire families. Both children and adults can visit one location and receive all of their oral health care at the same time, thus making for fewer trips to the dental office. Family dentists are equipped to…
If you are fed up of visiting different dentists to cater to your family’s dental needs, then you need to consider getting a family dentist. Although family dentistry and general dentistry are somewhat alike, there is a significant difference. General dentistry is usually limited to a particular age group, while family dentistry covers family members…
One of the most frequently asked questions a family dentist receives is how to effectively provide oral care when sick. Whether a parent is looking to ensure that they maintain their own good oral health during illness or want to make sure their child does not develop oral health concerns, knowing what precautions need to…
A dental bridge might be the right treatment if you have lost one or more…
Replacing old dental fillings is a part of good oral healthcare from time to time.
Family dentists typically focus on preventive care to stop big problems while they are still…
Oral cancer can occur in any part of the oral cavity, including the lips, tonsils,…
Dental sealants provide extra protection to teeth, especially for those more prone to tooth decay.
Invisalign® has quickly become one of the most preferred ways to undergo orthodontic treatment, especially…
