Five Top Questions About Kids and Dental Health
As new parents, we take so many things for granted as adults that we now have to consider for our children. It’s never too early to introduce good dental hygiene habits to your kids, but you may have questions about the ins and outs of dental care for children. In this blog, we address five common questions parents have about their kids and the dentist.
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Good News From 2023 Pediatric Dental Health Statistics
According to the Delta Dental Plans Association (DDPA) 2023 report on oral wellness, parents are doing an excellent job instilling good dental hygiene practices in their children. Nearly 73% of children brush their teeth twice a day, and 55% floss at least once a day. However, while home hygiene practices are important, it’s also essential to schedule regular dental visits for your child.
Around 85% of parents who took their child to the dentist in 2023 did so for preventative care, so as a new parent, you may be curious about some of the most frequently asked questions about your child and their dental health and hygiene. Below, we answer the top questions about kids and dental health.
1. When Should My Child Have Their First Dental Visit?
Your child should visit the dentist for the first time within six months after they get their first tooth, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This typically puts your child between six months and a year old at their first dental checkup, which may seem early. However, the earlier your child sees a dentist, the earlier the dentist can catch potential issues. And since dental visits are a lifelong commitment, the sooner your child gets comfortable with the dental checkup process, the easier it will be to take them to their regular visits.
2. How Can I Prepare My Child for Their First Dental Visit?
Like doctor visits, dental visits can be a source of anxiety for kids. But as it seems to be a universal phenomenon, there are a variety of books and videos (even some starring your child’s favorite character) to help alleviate their fears about going to the dentist. Other ways to prepare your child for their dental visits include:
- Talking to them about what to expect from their checkup
- Playing “dentist” and showing them what the dentist will do during the checkup
- Choosing a favorite stuffed animal to accompany them to their checkup
- Scheduling the appointment for earlier in the day to avoid crankiness or tiredness
- Planning a reward for after the dental visit, like a trip to the park or a new toy
As a parent, your child’s dental visits can also cause anxiety for you, but doing your best to stay positive and patient will make the appointment go smoother for everyone.
3. What Can My Child Expect During Their First Dental Checkup?
During your child’s first dental checkup, the dentist will likely keep it short, letting the child get to know them and start to feel comfortable in the office. They will examine your child’s teeth, gums, and jaw to ensure everything is developing properly and in good shape. They may gently clean their teeth, demonstrate how to brush and floss correctly, and discuss other oral health factors, like pacifier use or thumb sucking.
4. Are Baby Teeth Really That Important?
Many people think baby teeth aren’t that important because they eventually fall out. But baby teeth play a vital role in both the current and future health of your child and their teeth. Besides giving them the ability to chew food and smile with confidence, baby teeth also help your child learn to speak and help with pronunciation. Baby teeth also act as placeholders, saving space for adult teeth and keeping the rest of their teeth (both baby and adult) aligned. Finally, healthy baby teeth encourage healthy adult teeth. Allowing baby teeth to get cavities and decay makes adult teeth more susceptible to the same, setting your child up for a lifetime of dental struggles.
5. How Often Should My Child Visit The Dentist For Checkups?
Just like for adults, it is recommended that your child visit the dentist for checkups at least every six months. Even if they don’t have cavities or are doing everything right to care for their teeth, it is important to keep to a regular schedule of dental checkups to ensure that your child’s teeth and gums are healthy and properly cared for.
Learn More About Children’s Dentistry at Royal Dental Care
At Royal Dental Care, your child’s teeth are our priority. That’s why our team of dentists is trained to put your child at ease and make every visit as smooth as possible. To schedule a dental checkup for your child, call our office today at (773) 232-3929 (Norridge) or (847) 999-7620 (Schaumburg) or complete the online contact form.