Early dental care is a way to help ensure optimal dental development for children. The primary purpose is prevention, but early restorative care can help avoid discomfort, developmental concerns, and more. Most dentists recommend early dental care by your child’s first birthday.

Early dental care for toddlers

Toddlers, children between one and three years of age, are susceptible to oral health concerns such as cavities. The toddler years are also crucial for the child’s dental development. In this review, we discuss why toddlers need to have early dental care, what early dental care entails, and more.

Do toddlers need early dental care?

The earlier children begin regular dental check-ups, the better their short-term and long-term oral health is likely to be. Toddlers over the age of one should start visiting a pediatric dentist.

What does early dental care include for toddlers?

Early dental care for toddlers may look different for every patient. The ultimate goal is to prevent any oral health concerns from developing that impact. Common early dental care services include:

  • Dental X-rays.
  • Oral examination.
  • Routine cleaning.
  • Preventive care (i.e. sealants).
  • Educational services.
  • Restorative care (if necessary).

Early dental care involves a check-up and routine cleaning for most toddlers. Each visit offers an opportunity to learn more and track the child’s dental development. If there are any concerns, then the dentist can address them promptly. Early dental care visits are typically non-invasive.

What are the benefits of early dental care for toddlers?

Parents are often surprised at how beneficial early dental care is for toddlers. First and foremost, it helps prevent dental concerns for toddlers, including cavity prevention. In addition, since it reduces the risk of needing restorative procedures, children can better avoid discomforting and stressful procedures. This can help reduce the risk of dental anxiety and dental phobia, along with creating healthy habits and memories of visiting the dentist.

Early dental care for toddlers may also help reduce the need for orthodontic care. Dental issues such as cavities and the loss of teeth at an early age can cause spacing and alignment concerns, whereas healthy baby teeth that last for a long time help promote proper spacing.

When should I schedule my child’s first dental visit?

You should schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months after their first set of teeth has emerged. After that, much like adults, visits are recommended two or three times per year for a check-up and routine cleaning. More frequent visits may be recommended if any oral health concerns are detected.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentistry in Richmond, TX

Contact us today to schedule a visit for early dental care

If your child has passed their first birthday, it is time for their first dental visit. To schedule a visit with our dental practice, you can give us a call today or send our team a message. We look forward to meeting you and your child and assisting with your child’s early dental care needs.

Request an appointment or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at 832-579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.

Recent Posts

Visit A Pediatric Dentistry Office For A Tongue Or Lip Bite

Visiting a pediatric dentistry office with your child ensures his or her future relationship with oral hygiene and dentists, in general. Whenever your child suffers from oral injuries, consider making an appointment with your pediatric dentist to uncover any underlying problems. For instance, injuries to the tongue and teeth could indicate a deeper jaw or…

Why A Pediatric Dentistry Office Would Recommend Fluoridated Water

Fluoridated water is part of pediatric dentistry. It is a convenient and easy way to strengthen and protect teeth at an early age. Many areas have fluoridated water, which is a definite advantage. If you want to know why a dentist will likely recommend fluoridated water, here are the details.Studies show that almost all sources…

Pediatric Dentistry: How Nutrition Is Important For A Child’s Oral Health

Nutrition is an important part of pediatric dentistry. Having balanced amounts of vitamins and minerals can strengthen and protect the teeth. Proper nutrients also fuel dental function. If you want to know how important nutrition is for your child’s oral health, here are the details from a pediatric dentistry professional.Children are still developing. They need…

Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental

Share
Published by
Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental

Recent Posts

Oral Hygiene Basics: Choosing the Best Diet For Your Child’s Teeth

Healthy teeth are a vital part of eating and enjoying food, but certain foods can…

4 days ago

Oral Hygiene Basics: What Drinks Your Child Should Avoid

When it comes to your child's oral hygiene basics, you probably think that changing the…

6 days ago

Commonly Asked Questions About Dental Sealants for Kids

Dental sealants for kids are a great way to help prevent cavities and protect your…

1 week ago

Pediatric Tooth Extractions: A Guide for Parents on Healing and Care

Pediatric tooth extractions are a common procedure to promote better oral health for children.

1 week ago

Oral Hygiene Basics: Bad Habits to Avoid

A firm understanding of oral hygiene basics can prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and general…

1 week ago

3 Questions to Ask Your Child’s Dentist About Oral Hygiene Basics

When you and your child visit the dentist, you expect to get your child’s teeth…

2 weeks ago