When to Start Taking Your Child to a Pediatric Dentist in Mesquite

If you’re trying to keep a close eye on your child’s health as they develop, you’d want to be aware of sudden changes that could have serious implications. For example, if they’re more susceptible to getting sick during a certain season, then you’d want to take preventive measures to counter that if and when it happens.

When it comes to oral health, many people don’t realize how much of a difference early visits to a pediatric dentist in Mesquite can make.

When to Bring Your Child in For Their First Visit

Dentists will see patients as young as six months old, but not for no reason. The four front teeth – the two upper and two lower – typically begin erupting around this time and are just as susceptible to tooth decay as any other teeth. The moment they appear is the same moment that you should be scheduling an appointment. If unable, you should at least get them to the dentist by their first birthday.

When you bring them in for their first visit, keep in mind that a majority of the time is spent simply talking to the parent and providing important advice on at-home care. Initially, the visit includes a brief examination in your child’s mouth while they sit on your lap. It’s important that they feel as comfortable as possible during this visit in order to make future ones easier.

How Pediatric Oral Health Can Impact Future Overall Health

When we talk about pediatric oral health, we’re not just talking about the health of the permanent teeth that inevitably replace baby teeth. Many people don’t realize that baby teeth is crucial to the development of their permanent teeth because they act as spacers. If baby teeth fall out too soon because of decay, it could jeopardize their bite as permanent teeth begin erupting too soon.

Once their permanent teeth are damaged beyond repair, their ability to eat certain foods will make it more difficult to keep a balanced diet. Furthermore, they’re far more likely to develop ailments often linked to systemic conditions, including gum disease.

Addressing At-Home Care

Luckily, a dedicated at-home care routine and dental visits every six months is usually all it takes to avoid a majority of dental diseases. To keep their routine solid and prevent cavities and gum disease from appearing, take note of the following:

• Use a damp washcloth to clean their gums and mouth before their baby teeth erupt.
• Begin flossing as soon as two teeth touch.
• Use no more than a grain of rice-sized amount of toothpaste on their child toothbrush until the age of three.
• Once they’re older than three, move up to a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.
• Brush their teeth twice a day and make it the same time every day to help them develop a routine.
• Make brushing into a fun game that they’ll look forward too. Use their favorite song to help them get used to the two-minutes they should be brushing for once they can hold the brush on their own.

Got a question about your child’s oral health? Schedule an appointment with a children’s dentist in Mesquite!

About Bear Creek Family Dentistry

During your child’s first visit, the dentists and team at Bear Creek Family Dentistry work hard to make it as welcoming as possible. After we’ve performed a thorough examination and cleaning if necessary, our employees will answer any questions you have. To learn more, you can contact them through our website.