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Taking your child to the pediatric dentist helps them become used to biannual teeth cleanings and exams in addition to home care. The more familiar they get with the dentist and checkups, the less likely they’ll be to develop dental fears. Learn more about when you should take your child to the pediatric dentist for the first time to encourage healthy habits for life.

Visit As Soon As Possible

Take your child to the dentist by their first birthday or whenever their first tooth erupts. Every child’s development is different, with some getting their first tooth before hitting the one-year milestone and others soon after their first birthday party.

A common misconception is that parents should wait until kids have all of their baby teeth around 4 or 5 years old or after they start losing these teeth, which occurs as young as age 5 or as old as 8.

Schedule Every Six Months

pediatric dentistAfter the first visit, set up a schedule with the pediatric dentist so your child receives a cleaning and exam every six months. Full visits start around age 3 when all of the baby teeth have erupted, with X-rays done when the child is 5. If the child has an issue such as a lisp, more frequent visits will be necessary to correct the problem.

The Importance of Healthy Baby Teeth

Make dentist appointments for your child as part of your commitment to healthy development. Baby teeth provide the foundations for the permanent set to come in. They also help children speak and eat normally. 

Any issues, such as baby bottle tooth decay and gum inflammation, can cause permanent teeth to erupt incorrectly, creating misalignment and bite problems.

 

Whether it’s time for your child’s first or fifth visit to the pediatric dentist, make an appointment with Pediatric Dental Group in Honolulu, HI. The children’s dentist offers a complete range of services, including exams, teeth cleanings, sealants, and fluoride treatments, as well as a fun and welcoming environment. Call (808) 593-8828 today to make an appointment, or visit the practice online for more information. You can also find additional dental care tips on Facebook.

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