Pediatric Dentistry 101: Everything You Need to Know

When a baby is born, you quickly fall into the rhythm of frequent visits with your pediatrician. But, it is also essential to take your child to a pediatric dentist. A routine dental check-up is a critical part of your child’s oral health care.

When Should You Take Your Child for a First Pediatric Dental Visit?

Our dentist in Ajax recommends scheduling the first visit after the first tooth erupts or when the baby turns one year. Plan the dental appointment when the child is calm and likely to cooperate. Ensure she/he has rested enough before the dental check-up.

Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist Over Family Dentist?

Are you comfortable taking your child to a family dentist or a pediatric dentist? Both are qualified to take care of children.

However, a family dentist caters to the needs of all family members, regardless of age. On the other hand, a pediatric dentist in Ajax provides specialized oral dental care only to children, from infants to teens. We cater to the needs of the children, from baby teeth to permanent teeth.

Our pediatric dentists are friendly, and our offices are fitted with kid-friendly equipment.

It is vital to find a pediatric dentist at ease with and trust to help you make decisions about your child’s wellbeing.

What To Anticipate During Your First Dental Visit?

The first visit is short, but your child gets an opportunity to meet our dentist for the first time in a friendly way.

The dentist will direct you to sit on the dental chair and hold your child during the check-up. The dental team will examine your child’s teeth, gums, and oral tissues. Next, we will gently clean the gums with a wet cloth.

Why Are Primary Teeth Important and How to Keep Them Clean?

Primary teeth are the first to erupt into the oral cavity. They are 20 in number, and a child loses them as permanent teeth emerge. Primary teeth help a child chew, speak, and smile. Baby teeth also hold space in the jaws for the permanent teeth.

It is, therefore, vital to keep the baby teeth clean and free of cavities because the premature loss of the baby teeth will affect how the teeth emerge.

• Use a washcloth and some water to clean your child’s gum gently. Don’t forget the lip region to minimize bacteria build up.
• When the first tooth erupts, get a soft-bristled and tooth-friendly toothbrush. Clean the teeth every day in the morning and before bed. Make gentle circles on the teeth and along the gum line.
• From the age of 3, use a pea-sized toothpaste. Encourage your child to spit and avoid swallowing toothpaste. For more dental care tips for kids, visit our dental clinic.

How Often Should You Visit a Pediatric Dentist?

We recommend visiting the pediatric dentist every six months or as advertised by the dentist. Routine pediatric care makes it easy for the dentist to detect any abnormal teeth and jawbone growth.

Why are Children at Risk of Cavities and How to Prevent Them?

Tooth decay is the destruction of enamel and dentin. It occurs when sugars and starches such as sweets, milk, and cakes are left on the baby’s tooth. The bacteria in the mouth break these foods and convert them into acid. The bacteria, acid, food remains, and saliva combines to form plaque. This causes the enamel to weaken and increases the risk of cavities.

Children are at risk of cavities because they love sweet foods and drinks. Furthermore, their oral dental hygiene is wanting. Teach your child to gently brush the teeth twice a day or after every meal to prevent cavities. Also, minimize the intake of sugary foods and drinks which are harmful to your child’s teeth. Remember to clean your baby’s gums and teeth and avoid giving a bottle at night. Visit a pediatric dentist frequently for a dental exam and cleaning.

Take Away

Start to develop good dental habits from a tender age. Be patient as your little one learns, practice makes perfect. At Rossland Landing Dental Care, children’s dentistry is our passion. Visit us today.