When do I bring in my child for his first dental checkup?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association recommend a first check-up by age 1 or 6 months after first tooth erupts. Typically this visit is a quick appointment, with the primary objectives of getting the child comfortable with the environment and the dentist, while evaluating their teeth and providing oral hygiene instructions to parents.
As the child grows older, subsequent visits will include the child going for a ride in the chair and additional instructions as necessary.
Why are baby teeth important?
Your child's baby teeth help him chew food, and give you that adorable smile. The primary, or baby teeth, reserve space in the jaw for the permanent teeth and allow jaw and facial bones to grow properly.
My child is very apprehensive, what can be done?
Bring your child with you to your next dental visit so he or she can become familiar with the office and the doctor. Your child can see all the instruments we use and also take a ride in the dental chair. Having your child watch you get worked on usually gets them excited for their turn!
My child has two rows of teeth coming in, what should I do?
Permanent teeth usually erode the roots of the baby teeth, increasing their mobility, and contributing to their normal loss. Sometimes the adult tooth erupts in front or behind the baby tooth thus eroding less of the baby root needed for normal loss. The rule of thumb is to extract the baby tooth if the adult tooth has erupted halfway or more. Removing the baby tooth is almost always performed easily and well tolerated by children.
When should my child have braces?
Children who need or wish to have braces are typically treated when they have lost all their baby teeth. This usually occurs between the ages of ten and twelve. Many children can benefit from treatments as early as six year old including expanded arches, correcting cross-bites, and preventing harmful habits.
Do I have to go to an orthodontist for braces?
All dentists are trained in some aspects of orthodontics. Also, some general dentists have received additional training and are qualified to perform more comprehensive procedures. More complex cases are typically referred to the orthodontist.
My front teeth are a little crooked, is there anything I can do aside from braces?
Some patients can have minor crowded teeth corrected with retainer type appliances, porcelain veneers, or cosmetic bonding. Most patients can improve their smiles in only a few weeks or months for a fraction of the cost of braces.