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When Should a Child First Visit a Pediatric Dentist, and What Are the Benefits?

ByMariella G. Bishop

Oct 7, 2023

Your child should visit a pediatric dentist by the time they turn one or when their first tooth appears, whichever comes first. If you want to protect your child’s oral health and inculcate healthy dental care habits, you should take them to the dentist as soon as their first tooth erupts. 

There are benefits to bringing your child in for an early checkup at a pediatric dentist for pediatric dentistry in Fullerton, just as there are benefits to doing so for adults. 

  • Keep an Eye on Your Child’s Developing Mouth

If you start taking your child to the pediatric dentist early on, they can monitor the growth of their teeth and jaw. This will aid in both the early detection of problems and the timing of the introduction of good oral hygiene.

Pediatric dentists are trained to work with children and will emphasize preventative measures when your child is young. Your child will be able to gain an understanding of how their permanent teeth come in and the importance of maintaining a healthy smile as they become older. Regular appointments with the pediatric dentist will allow the dentist to assess your child’s developmental level in terms of learning. 

  • Avoid Dental Problems

Even though baby teeth only remain in the mouth for a brief period, proper dental hygiene is still essential. It is possible for a child’s ability to speak effectively to be negatively impacted by problems with these teeth, which also serve an essential function in directing the growth of permanent teeth. 

Visits to a pediatric dentist as early as possible in a child’s life are highly recommended for a number of reasons, the most important of which is the reduction or elimination of future dental problems. 

  • You will find that your child is much happier.

Your child (and you) may feel worried about visiting the pediatric dentist for the first time, so beginning early with dental care at home may help relieve their worries and prepare them for their first appointment. Pediatric dentists undergo additional training in child psychology and handling challenging behaviors in addition to the standard dental education they receive. 

  • Put a Stop to Bad Practices Before They Begin.

Children are notoriously known for engaging in two awful habits: grinding their teeth and sucking their thumbs. Your child’s teeth could become damaged due to these poor behaviors, making it challenging to break them. Your child can have a conversation with a pediatric dentist about the advantages of changing negative behaviors, and the dentist can also provide you with advice on how to assist your child in achieving their goals.