Signs of a pediatric dental emergency aren’t always obvious. It can be hard to know when to take your child to the dentist and when to care for their teeth at home. Here are 5 signs your child needs to see a dentist to help you feel confident about knowing how to address your child’s dental care needs.
1. First Teeth
One of the first signs your child needs to see a dentist is when their baby teeth come in! While not a sign of a dental emergency, it’s recommended that your child have their first dental visit by 12 months of age or within 6 months of their first tooth erupting.
Your child’s first dental exam is important so that their dentist can perform a full exam of their teeth, gums, jaw, bite, and oral tissues to ensure that everything is developing properly as they grow.
2. Change in Appearance
Another sign that your child needs to see a dentist is if any of their teeth change in appearance. Discoloration, chipped edges, or cracks in their teeth are all signs of an immediate dental emergency.
3. Dental Discomfort
Just like for adults, discomfort is one of the most common signs that your child needs to see a dentist. If your child doesn’t seem to have an appetite, cries excessively after eating certain foods (such as hot or cold foods), or complains about discomfort, it’s important to have their teeth and gums examined by a dentist.
4. Trauma or Impact
If your child falls or gets hit on their face or mouth, it’s important to visit the dentist as soon as possible to have their teeth checked for signs of damage to their teeth, such as a chipped, broken, or knocked out tooth. Your child’s dentist can also use x-rays to check for signs of damage beneath the surface that might not be visible.
5. Timing
If it’s been more than 6 months since your child’s last visit to the dentist, then it’s time to schedule a visit again! Routine exams and cleanings are important for children, just like adults, to catch issues early and help keep your child’s smile healthy and strong for life.
Call our Avondale, Gilbert or Mesa dental office, to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.