Pediatric Dentistry: How To Care For Your Child's Teeth And Avoid Dental Anxiety

6 September 2022
 Categories: Dentist, Blog

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Children follow your example. If you are a person that struggles with dental anxiety, it's important to get this under control so that your child can see you get the dental care you need. You can bring your child to appointments while you get your teeth cleaned, just so they get used to a dental office. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child should be brought to the dentist when they get their first tooth, or by the time they are one year old. While your child may not have many teeth, your child should see a pediatric dentist twice a year to look for decay.

Your Child's First Pediatric Dental Visit

When your child goes to the dentist for the first time, this will be to look in the mouth for any dental issues, gum problems, or decay if any teeth are present. In general, it is not a long appointment, but one to get your child used to the dental office.

Baby Teeth are Important

You might not think baby teeth are much to be concerned about, since they fall out at some point anyway. It is vital to the health of your child to get quality dental care from an early age. Baby teeth help your child in a number of ways, allowing your child to speak clearly, and chew their food properly. Baby teeth can become decayed, causing your child pain if they get a cavity.

Easing Dental Anxiety in Children

As your child gets older, they may develop some anxiety when they go to the dentist. Talk to the pediatric dental provider about any concerns your child might have. If your child needs a procedure, it's possible that the dentist offers some form of sedation dentistry to ease your child's stress. Ask your child if they have questions, and answer them truthfully. Take the time to listen to your child about their fears.

Your child should see a pediatric dentist by the time they are one year old. This will set a foundation for oral health, allowing your child to grow and prosper. Baby teeth are important, as they create room for your child's permanent teeth to erupt when they are ready. If your child has anxiety around the dentist, give your child the attention they need to feel calm. Explain to the dentist about your child's fears, and seek sedation services if absolutely necessary.