kids dentist avondaleMany parents, especially new parents, have a lot of questions on how to ensure the health and safety of their children. While you may know a lot about how to keep your own oral health up to speed, you may not know much about the particular needs that children have regarding their teeth. Here are some FAQs and answers to them regarding children and their oral care habits.
Is there a difference between a pediatric dentist and a general dentist?
Yes. A pediatric dentist undergoes two to three years of extra training to work with kids and limits his or her practice to treating children only. They are better equipped to work with the dental issues that affect children and have a passion for working with them.
When should my child first see the dentist.
In order to address the potential for childhood cavities, your child should see the dentist as soon as the first tooth appears or no later than his or her first birthday.
How often should my child see the dentist?
Although every child is different, the ADA recommends that children see the dentist every six months to make sure their teeth are cavity-free and developing normally.
When should my child’s baby teeth start coming in?
The average age for the eruption of the first tooth is 6 months. Sometimes, it takes longer, and in rare cases, some infants are born with teeth. Either way, your child should have 20 primary (baby) teeth by 2 ½ to 3 years of age.
How important is it to take care of baby teeth?
Your child’s primary teeth (baby teeth) are very important. Not only are they placeholders for the permanent teeth that will eventually take their place, but having healthy baby teeth ensures that your child is able to eat well and learn to speak properly.
Is it a problem if my child sucks his/her thumb or uses a pacifier?
Thumbsucking is a natural occurrence among infants and should be no cause for concern unless the habit continues beyond the age of three. Pacifiers are also considered safe for the same time period. If you have an older child who still engages in thumbsucking, speak to your Arizona pediatric dentist about how to help them kick the habit.
For more information on ways to take care of your child’s teeth and help instill great oral care habits at an early age, visit https://sunnvalleypediatricdentistry.com/dental-faqs/.