How Often You Should See a Kid Friendly Dentist

Kid Friendly Dentist New York, NY

Taking your child to see a kid friendly dentist is an important part of oral and overall health.  Even though baby teeth will eventually fall out and be replaced by permanent ones, it is still essential to keep them clean and treat them for any issues that develop, even during young childhood. Failure to properly care for baby teeth can result in serious complications, including:

  • Digestive problems
  • speech issues
  • Severe decay or infection
  • Alignment issues
  • Extensive dental work in the future

Following the American Dental Association's recommendations for when and how often to see a kid friendly dentist can reduce the risks for serious issues while improving a child's dental health.

When to take your child to a kid friendly dentist

How often your child needs to visit the dentist may vary based on their individual situation. In general, most children follow the same schedule as adults when it comes to professional oral care.

The first checkup

Some parents assume they do not need to take their kids to visit a dentist until they are close to school age. However, the ADA recommends scheduling the first dental appointment before age 1, when the first baby teeth start to appear above the gum line. This initial appointment allows the dentist to check for proper development while making recommendations to parents as needed for home care. These early dental visits also help children acclimate to the process of having their teeth cleaned and examined while allowing them to become more comfortable with the setting and the staff.

Routine cleanings and exams

Beginning at age 1, children should continue to visit a kid friendly dentist every six months for a checkup and professional cleaning. Young children are especially prone to cavities, but early detection at these appointments can prevent the need for extensive and uncomfortable dental work. For example, some children may receive a topical application of silver diamine fluoride instead of a filling to help treat and slow the progression of a minor cavity that has not progressed too far. Professional cleanings also help reduce the risk of developing tooth decay by removing the tartar buildup that brushing and flossing leave behind.

At routine dental appointments, children may receive X-rays and other diagnostic screenings to check for proper development and potential issues below the surface. Many dentists also recommend topical fluoride treatments to strengthen tooth enamel and further protect against cavities. These are usually given at every checkup. Once a child reaches the age of 6, they may be ready for dental sealants, which offer yet another line of defense against tooth decay. According to the ADA, this simple and painless preventative treatment can reduce the risks of getting a cavity by as much as 80% in molars.

Dental problems

Sometimes, it is not wise to wait until the next routine appointment to visit a kid friendly dentist. Just as with adults, children should be seen promptly if they develop any symptoms that point to a dental problem. Usually, this involves unexplained tooth pain or sensitivity that lasts for more than a day or two. Some young children may not be able to articulate their dental pain, so parents should be mindful of nonverbal cues, such as refusing to eat, favoring one side when chewing, difficulty sleeping, or rubbing the area often.

Dental emergencies

There are situations that require immediate evaluation and treatment from a dentist, even for kids. These dental emergencies include signs of infection (severe pain, redness, fever, inflammation, bleeding, or pus), damage to a tooth (chips, cracks, or breaks), and a knocked-out tooth. Even if a baby tooth is damaged or knocked loose because of trauma, it is still important to see a dentist who can check for potential complications. In some instances, a dentist may recommend replacing a knocked-out baby tooth with a prosthetic device to prevent alignment problems.

Conclusion

There are many reasons a child should see a kid friendly dentist for regular evaluation and treatment. Starting around age 1, parents should expect to take their child to the dentist twice a year. These early appointments are critical for maintaining oral health and building good habits. However, routine visits are not the only reason to see a dentist. Kids should also be seen promptly if they experience severe damage, signs of infection, or symptoms of decay. Immediate treatment can prevent unnecessary complications while keeping teeth and gums healthy and strong.

Request an appointment here: https://www.newyorkdentaloffice.com or call New York Dental Office at (212) 548-3261 for an appointment in our New York office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Kid Friendly Dentist in New York, NY.

Recent Posts

How A Kid Friendly Dentist Can Improve Your Child’s Oral Health

A kid friendly dentist sets your child up for a lifetime of good dental health. Parents should make their children’s oral health a top priority from the moment they’re born. A child’s teeth are fully developed in the womb, it just takes some time after they are born for them to erupt.The American Dental Association…

Healthy Snacks Recommended By A Kid Friendly Dentist In New York To Avoid Tooth Decay

Parents can probably make a pretty good guess as to what sorts of snacks a kid friendly dentist in New York would declare unhealthy for a child’s teeth. Candy, for sure, is a bad choice, especially the sticky kind that hangs on and breaks down tooth enamel. Cookies and cakes probably do not have the…

3 Common Reasons To See A Family Dentist

A unique benefit of choosing a family dentist is that this professional care for the oral health of your entire household during every stage of life. The dental needs of children, teenagers, and adults vary, so a family dentist who can offer a comprehensive range of services for every family member is a valuable asset.Family…

Dental Care Tips: Take Your Family To A Family Dentist

When you are a parent, you are responsible for your children's medical care. Healthy teeth are an important component under that umbrella of care. Finding a family dentist is an easy step that simplifies the process of caring for the oral health of the entire family. This type of dentist is a dentist who is…

Recent Posts

Can Multiple Teeth Need A Root Canal Treatment?

Can Multiple Teeth Need A Root Canal Treatment?

Most people find root canal treatment frightening. This procedure has a bad reputation for being painful and unpleasant. But your dentist has the skills and instruments necessary to handle the process efficiently and with minimal pain. There is a possibility that a patient may have numerous teeth that require extensive treatment. The dentist can assess…

Root Canal Treatment Can Maintain The Natural Appearance Of Your Tooth

Root Canal Treatment Can Maintain The Natural Appearance Of Your Tooth

Your dentist will recommend a root canal treatment to help you keep your damaged tooth. A natural tooth will always be better than a synthetic one. This treatment will restore the appearance of your tooth. If you want to know how a root canal treatment can maintain the natural look of your affected tooth, here…

New York Dental Office