When you prepare to take a child to their first pediatric dentist appointment, it is helpful to know what to expect. This is a new experience for the child and it could be yours as a parent as well. The more you understand about a typical visit, the more comfortable both you and the child can feel during the process.
New parents often wonder when it is time to start dental care for a young child. Parents should not wait until the child has a mouthful of teeth or until the son or daughter complains of mouth pain. It is good for kids to make their first visit as soon as teeth begin to cut through the gums. Though the first appointments will be basic, it will help the dentist identify any concerns. From the first appointment onward, patients should come to the dentist’s office every six months.
One of the primary purposes of going to a pediatric dentist is to keep teeth looking and feeling good. The hygienist will use an ultrasonic tool to clean the child’s teeth and gums. The hygienist may also floss the patient’s teeth. Afterward, the assistant will apply a polishing gel to the child’s teeth to give it a nice shine.
A regular checkup will also include a thorough examination. The hygienist or assistant will start by taking X-rays of the child’s teeth. This can help the dentist see small and emerging cavities. The dentist will then do a hands-on inspection of the mouth, teeth and gums. This allows the dentist to see problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, bite abnormalities, crowded teeth and other concerns.
A visit to the pediatric dentist can also be a learning experience for the child and parents. After the examination, the dentist may reveal whether the patient has cavities, plaque or other buildup. The dentist may take time to teach the child how to brush and floss effectively. There may even be a discussion about any necessary treatment plans.
Tooth decay is common among children. Cavities can develop due to poor oral hygiene or by eating too much sugar. The pediatric dentist can remove tooth decay and repair damaged teeth by drilling into the tooth, killing the bacteria and sealing up the tooth with a filling. Usually, the dentist will use a ceramic filling or one made of composite resin. As for larger fillings, or ones that crack a tooth, the dentist may need to perform a root canal.
Taking your child to see a pediatric dentist is a good way to develop lasting habits. By seeing the dentist every six months, the child is more likely to have healthy, strong teeth and gums. The child can also find relief from toothaches, swollen gums and other common dental problems that affect young people. If you have not taken your child to the dentist yet, call and make an appointment today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at (832) 579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Lifelong oral health begins with pediatric dental checkups, and routine dental X-rays are an integral part of that care. They show how well teeth are forming, vulnerable areas in the enamel, and whether the jawbone and gums are developing as expected. Reading up on the basics of X-rays can help parents feel more confident and…
A pediatric root canal is often a final resort for a dentist who is trying to save a child’s tooth. When a cavity has become so severe that it has progressed into the innermost pulp chamber of the tooth, removing the pulp and performing a root canal is the best option for enabling the child…
Pediatric root canals are often the last option to save a child's natural teeth. They help remove any threat to a tooth's inner structure, keeping it alive and healthy. This has a positive ripple effect throughout the child's development. Learn when the dentist may recommend this procedure.A pediatric root canal's, or pulpectomy's, main purpose is…
In many cases, a pediatric dentist can save a severely damaged tooth with a pediatric root canal. However, there are times when the damaged tooth is beyond saving, and the dentist will need to remove it with a tooth extraction procedure. The damage may be tooth decay, cracks, or chips. If your child has a…
A pediatric dental checkup that includes X-rays delivers clarity that visual exams alone cannot achieve.
A pediatric root canal is often a final resort for a dentist who is trying…
Pediatric root canals are often the last option to save a child's natural teeth. They…
In many cases, a pediatric dentist can save a severely damaged tooth with a pediatric…
A pediatric root canal is important for preventing pain and keeping your child's mouth healthy.…
Your child may need a pediatric root canal for an infected baby tooth. Research shows…