Routine Dental Visits
Routine Dental Visits For Your Child’s Smile
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is achievable when routine dental visits are a top priority. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends children, starting at age 1, see the dentist every 6 months to prevent cavities and other dental problems that may arise as your child grows and develops. Routine dental visits are an important part of the overall health and wellness of your child. The primary teeth are placeholders for future permanent teeth. Establishing oral health routines early in childhood sets a foundation for good oral health in the future.
Your Child’s First Routine Dental Visit
At Pediatric Dentistry of Fredericksburg, we recommend that children see a pediatric dentist around their first birthday. This appointment helps to establish a good foundation for your child’s oral health as they grow into toddlerhood. The first dental visit not only allows the dentist to meet you and your child, but it also gives you an opportunity to ask questions or raise any concerns you may have about how to properly care for your child’s teeth. We like to take this opportunity to establish a positive relationship with parents and children so that going to the dentist for routine dental visits becomes something to look forward to.
What To Expect During Your Child’s Routine Dental Visits
Regular and routine dental visits are vital to the overall health of your child. Children with dental decay often sleep poorly and avoid chewing on teeth that may cause them pain. Taking the necessary steps to keep your child’s oral health on track is the best way to ensure that they can maintain a healthy diet and get the rest they need to grow. At each 6-month checkup and routine dental visit, our team at Pediatric Dentistry of Fredericksburg will:
Around age 3, the pediatric dentist will note if your child has a self-soothing habit such as thumb sucking or pacifier use. Most children will stop these habits on their own; however, we can discuss tips and tricks on how to stop or reduce these habits so that your child’s bite can stay aligned.
Taking Care Of Your Child’s Teeth At Home
Perhaps the most important part of dental care is the dedication and commitment you make to take care of your child’s teeth at home between routine dental visits. Pediatric Dentistry of Fredericksburg encourages parents to teach children the importance of taking care of their teeth each day to maintain a healthy mouth. Children will eventually want to brush their teeth independently. This is a normal part of growth and development. We suggest that parents follow up with brushing and flossing until children develop the dexterity to adequately clean their teeth every day. Developing a good home dental routine will make going to the dentist a breeze.
How To Care For Your Infant’s Teeth And Gums At Home
Babies can benefit from routine oral care before the first tooth erupts. At Pediatric Dentistry of Fredericksburg, we encourage parents to take a damp, clean washcloth and gently cleanse their baby’s gums. This will help neutralize the pH in baby’s mouth as well as get them into the habit and routine of regular mouth cleanings. As soon as your child gets his first tooth, you can introduce a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and gently clean the first tooth/teeth and gums.
Schedule Your Child’s Routine Visit Today
If you are new to the area and looking for a dental home for your children, Pediatric Dentistry of Fredericksburg would like to welcome you to our practice. We specialize in dental care for children of all ages and we are committed to providing the best possible care in a comfortable, welcoming and safe environment. If you have any questions about routine dental care for your children, or would like to schedule an appointment, call us today at (540) 371-3222 or use our online appointment request form.