Pediatric Dentistry FAQs
Most parents understand the importance of pediatric dental care. But, only a small percentage actively seeks the services of a pediatric dentist in Mahwah. This is a problem because the primary teeth and dental structures develop at this age. Ignoring proper pediatric dental can affect a child’s jaw development and cause the permanent teeth to emerge crooked. Below we answer some of the common pediatric dental questions and concerns.
1. When Should You Take Your Child for the First Pediatric Dental Visit?
There is no limitation or wrong time you can visit the dentist office Suffern NY. However, we recommend coming for the first pediatric dental visit when the first tooth erupts or right before their first birthday. It makes it easy for our dentist in Suffern to examine and detect any dental abnormalities.
2. We Have a Family Dentist; Why Visit a Pediatric Dentist?
Having a family dentist is commendable; it means your family dental needs are handled. However, if you have an infant or a toddler, visiting a pediatric dentist near Suffern is vital.
Family dentists can handle dental problems at all ages. However, pediatric dentists are specialized in diagnosing and treating dental problems from infancy to young adulthood. Plus, they receive training on children’s psychological needs, meaning they can keep them calm during a dental procedure. Plus, they are equipped to handle the different personalities professionally.
Moreover, our pediatric dental clinic is designed with kid-friendly décor. We also provide games and toys to relax the children.
3. What Happens During the First Pediatric Dental Visit?
The first visit is short, lasting about 30 minutes, but it is very important as it helps the dentist to create a rapport with the child. During this visit, the dentist will examine the teeth and gums. Using soft and wet cloth, the dentist will clean off the gums of any build-up.
We also discuss important information such as teething, fluoride treatments, developmental milestones, proper nutrition, dental hygiene, and the right brushing techniques.
It is crucial to prepare your child before the procedure to prevent fussiness. Ensure they are fed, well-rested, and dry.
4. What is The Point of Taking Care of Primary Teeth, They Will Fall Off Eventually?
Primary teeth develop before the baby is born, but will come out at six or seven months. Yes, they fall off eventually, but these teeth are crucial to the dental structure.
Primary teeth are space maintainers and guide the permanent teeth. Any premature loss of the baby teeth will cause the dental structure to develop abnormally and also affect how the permanent teeth will emerge. Chances are if the child has missing primary teeth, the permanent one comes out crooked. Fortunately, the dentist can recommend space maintainers to preserve the dental structure.
Protecting the primary teeth is crucial. Apart from visiting a pediatric dentist near you, it is important to maintain proper dental hygiene. Clean the gums with a soft cloth daily and also after breastfeeding. Do not allow the child to sleep while bottle-feeding to prevent decay.
If your child is teething, rub the gums with a washcloth or use a solid teething toy to ease the discomfort.
Using pediatric dental crowns is also important, but first, visit a children’s dental clinic in Suffern for more information. These crowns act as barriers and shield the primary teeth from damage.
5. When Should Your Child Use Toothpaste?
You can brush your child’s teeth with an age-appropriate toothpaste as soon as the first tooth emerges. However, hold off on fluoride toothpaste until the child is two years. Also, ensure you supervise them to ensure they brush properly.
6. How Often Should You Visit a Pediatric Dentist?
We recommend visiting the pediatric dentist twice a year, although the dentist may recommend frequent visits every three months if the child has a dental problem.
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Including pediatric dental care in your routine will lay the proper foundation for good dental health later. At Dental Wellness of Suffern, we offer pediatric dental services that are guaranteed to support your child’s dental health. Visit us today!