Why Kids Should See a Dentist

It is a sad fact that the dental health of our children is in a state of decline. Recent studies show that 60% of children 15 years old or younger have at least one, if not more cavities. This trend should be easy to stop when you consider the advancements the dental industry. Our office wants to partner with our parents to create a system to help improve the dental health for all of our young patients.

Our Northridge dentist agrees with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) belief that a child should see a dentist by their first birthday. This makes dental visits more routine and adds familiarity to dental care. There are other reasons kids should see a dentist on a regular basis.

• Our pedodontist in Northridge is great helping children to relax while attending to their dental needs. This sets up a positive feeling for the next visits.

• Children often learn by example. If your child sees how to brush and floss correctly they will likely learn correct techniques. Additionally, some children respond better to the recommendations of a professional than they do when hearing the same advice from parents.

• Sometimes a dentist is the first medical professional to see the signs of other disorders. You child’s pediatrician may not notice signs of teeth grinding, but our dentist would spot that immediately and alert you to the problem. This gives you valuable insight and can help you to manage your child’s over all health in the best and most efficient way possible.

• Early prevention of cavities, gum disease, and other maladies gives your child the keys to good dental health. Visiting our dentist allows us to spot problems and intervene as soon as possible. Many dental issues are easily remedied when caught early by a professional.

• A proper professional cleaning is good for you at every age and stage of your life.
We understand it is easy to become busy, so our office will schedule and remind you about your child’s appointment upon request. 

How Soon Should Children See a Dentist?

If you’re a new parent, you may be wondering how soon is too soon for your child’s first dentist appointment? Navigating through this part of early childhood can be quite daunting, but rest assured that our certified children’s dentist in North Hollywood has all the answers you seek for your growing family.

Even though they may not show it, your baby was born with a set of partly-formed baby teeth hidden in their gums. You’ll first see them grow in after they begin teething.  The American Dental Association recommends that you take your child in for their first appointment no more than six months after the eruption of their first visible tooth, ideally before they turn one year old. While it may seem very strange to take your child in so early, it is imperative to start protecting their enamel under the watchful eye of a professional as soon as possible, even for their temporary baby teeth, as cavities can begin to develop as soon as the tooth has emerged and is readily visible.

You will be asked about the developmental milestones your child has achieved so far, including any negative habits they may have picked up such as thumb-sucking or being reliant on a pacifier. Your child’s mouth will be examined thoroughly, and usually you will be able to sit right by their side. After checking for any type of injury, disease, or decay, a professional cleaning will be administered and you will be given more information on how to properly take care of your child’s growing mouth.

If necessary, you will be given recommendations for any additional products and/or tools that may be necessary to keep your child’s teeth in good health; this can include things like fluoride treatments, or special brushes to target any problem areas that may be apparent. Our dentist may suggest something called a dental sealant, used to protect the hidden crevasses of the molars from cavities in these early years. There is also the option of dental crowns, which can be used to protect a badly decayed or damaged tooth.

Dental Treatments for Children

Dental care for children is similar to treatment for adults in many ways. However, certain procedures may offer extra benefits to patients during childhood, when the teeth and gums undergo rapid growth. Here are some of the treatments children may receive depending on their oral health and risk factors.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral, is valued for its beneficial effects on teeth. Although fluoride is commonly added to tap water supplies and toothpastes, some patients benefit from extra fluoride. In addition to applying fluoride in our dental office, our dentist may prescribe products with the mineral for convenient use at home.

Sealants

Sealants are clear plastic varnishes painted over teeth to form a barrier against cavities. Often used in vulnerable areas, such as crevices, sealants can last for years before re-application becomes necessary. Having sealants applied can also save patients money by reducing their risks of needing fillings or other restorations later.

Like adults, children may need a variety of restorations, such as fillings. Our dentist offers restorations in tooth-colored versions for a smile-friendly result. Dental sedation is also available for eligible children with anxiety, movement disorders, or other needs. At a consultation with our dentist for children in Houston parents can learn more about treatments that kids can receive at our office.