When Do Kids Start Going To The Dentist? Portland, OR
Pediatric dentistry is a specialized field that deals with oral and dental care for children from babies through the teens. Prevention of any potential diseases or health issues is the goal since many can be avoided if good habits start early on in life. Bring your child in for an appointment with our kids dentist here at Great Grins for KIDS - Portland as early as possible.
Does My Child Need to See a Pediatric Dentist?
If you are comfortable with your child seeing your family dentist there is no rule enforcing that you must take your child to a pediatric dentist. However, children's dentists are specialists and have additional training that deals specifically with children's dental health issues.
A pediatric dentist cares for your children's teeth all the way through their development into adulthood, from being a baby to a teenager. They are very knowledgeable about problems specific to children and of the key developmental stages of their lives when specialist treatment, such as braces, may be required.
Pediatric dentists are experienced in calming down anxious children and educating you and your children on the dangers of, for example, sugar and how your child can mitigate the damage candies cause to their teeth, without giving up these treats completely.
When Should I Take My Child to Their First Dental Appointment?
You should bring your child in for their first dental appointment within a few months of their first tooth erupting. This usually occurs sometime between six to 12 months of age. It is important that children are used to going to the dentist, and the earlier you take them the more likely they will take it in their stride as they grow up.
Establishing trust with the dentist is crucial if you don't want your child to become anxious when it's time to visit the dentist. Thus, taking them from an early age, when nothing much happens apart from the dentist looking inside their mouth for a check-up, is perfect for them to get used to coming to the dental clinic.
How Do I Choose the Best Toothpaste for my Child?
It is recommended that children under the age of three use toothpaste formulated for children, which contains a lower amount of fluoride than adult toothpaste. A tiny smear of toothpaste, no more than the size of a grain of rice, should be used on the brush and the teeth cleaned gently with small, circular movements. Alternatively, you can let an electric toothbrush do all the work as all that's required is to move the brush along with the teeth while the brush does its work. When your child is a little older, you may have to consider whether they require a toothpaste formulated for a particular problem, such as tooth decay.
At What Age Should My Child Start Flossing Their Teeth?
As soon as your child is adeptly looking after their daily brushing, introduce them to flossing. It is a fundamental part of maintaining a healthy mouth and can help them to avoid gum disease - the major cause of tooth loss in American adults. It's usually around the age of eight that you should try to get your child to floss.
Schedule an appointment with us at Great Grins for KIDS - Portland if you have any more questions about kids' dentistry. Call us at (971) 470-0054.
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