Children should start receiving regular dental exams as early as possible, this will lead to healthier mouths throughout their lives. Regular dental exams are beneficial for both children and adults in maintaining a healthy oral and dental cavity. Children are more susceptible to cavities, malformations, and developmental changes, which necessitate regular dental care. Early dental exams help prevent:
- cavities
- tooth decay
- tooth pain
- difficulty concentrating
- other medical issues
Children with healthy teeth have a simple way of eating, can speak clearly, and have the confidence to smile. The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that all children should see a dentist by the age of 1 – or as soon as the first tooth appears. This “well baby visit” teaches parents and caregivers how to care for children’s teeth and prevent them from becoming caved in. Our team of dentists would be happy to perform these regular dental checkups on your children. For those in Suffolk, VA area seeking a family dentist, consider All Kids Dental.
Children are still growing
One of the most significant reasons for dental exams to be conducted on a child is that they are still developing. A child’s mouth is undergoing numerous alterations, which is why regular dental examinations can serve as a means of detecting any abnormalities that arise. As uncommon as this is, abnormalities do occur that pose a risk to the child’s teeth if not addressed. As children mature, their teeth do too, and in some cases, the growth of the teeth is misaligned.
Cavities
Many children tend to consume more sugar, which leads to cavities. This is another reason that having a regular dental exam is important for children. Dentists can detect cavities early and have them removed. A filling or crown will likely be necessary to treat the cavity.
Orthodontics Checkup
Regular dental exams allow for examinations to be conducted, which may lead to the need for orthodontic treatment. The earlier orthodontic treatment is initiated, the faster and easier the teeth can be aligned. Children must have dental evaluations at least twice a year to begin orthodontic treatment if necessary.
Cleanings
When a child has their teeth cleaned, they also receive a thorough dental exam from a professional. These cleanings are vital because children are not always brushing their teeth thoroughly. This also allows the dentist to clean the teeth of any plaque that has accumulated over time. This plaque could eventually lead to harmful decay. Children and adults must have their teeth examined by a dentist regularly in order to ensure that their teeth are free of disease and have a normal appearance. These routine dental exams can help keep the child’s mouth healthy and on course for successful oral and dental health.
Regular dental evaluations increase the likelihood that children will have a positive attitude toward dental visits. Childhood experiences have the potential to permanently affect the way a person perceives dentists, so it’s crucial that they become accustomed to regular dental visits early on. While the dental procedure may initially lack appeal to a child, frequent trips will make them more comfortable with the process and enjoy it.
Visiting the dentist can help you understand and learn about your child’s oral hygiene. This will also allow you to assess the condition of their dental hygiene and detect any signs of dental issues. All Kids Dental of Suffolk has a kid-friendly waiting room and a staff that specializes in pediatric dentistry. Call 757-922-8110 to book your first appointment today. Give us a call or stop by our office today to get started. We are happy to help in any way that we can.
