Every parent understands that, at some point, their child will need to see a dentist to have teeth examined and cleaned. The question many parents have is when professional dental care should begin. Because recommendations may differ from one office to another, it may be difficult to determine the appropriate timing for early dental care. Dr. Kotecha invites parents to bring their children to see their dentist in the Port Credit area as soon as their first tooth has erupted. This may occur anywhere between six and twelve months of age.
Why would a child with only one or two teeth need to see the dentist? There are several reasons. Ultimately, dental care for children is designed to promote oral health through education and preventive treatments. Oral bacteria is present in all humans, even infants. This means that newly erupted teeth are susceptible to cavities. With early care, parents give their children the best possible chance of long-term oral health.
Early dental care with a friendly, nurturing dental team is a wonderful way for a child to begin learning the importance of hygiene and oral care. With regular visits, children learn that the dentist is someone they can trust to keep their smile healthy and happy. The earlier children visit the dentist, the more comfortable they tend to be in this setting throughout their lives.
Dental care for children also allows the dental team to get a baseline understanding of their oral health. Throughout childhood dental visits, we check teeth and gums and monitor the development of the entire oral structure. Any identified dental problems are quickly treated and children are taught, when they are old enough, how to brush and floss for maximum efficiency. Preventive treatments such as dental sealants may be performed on teeth at a higher risk for cavity development.
All of the factors related to early childhood dentistry may seem like a lot to think about when your child has only one or two teeth. Seeing the long-term effects of professional care, however, parents can remain committed to routine care both at home and in the dental office.
Dr. Kotecha and her team treat patients of all ages. This means that your child will never “outgrow” our office, but instead, can benefit from continuity of care from friendly, familiar faces. Call (905) 455-9262 today.
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