Your Child Can Have a Healthy Smile with Pediatric Dental Care

They say the best defense is a good offense, and that’s why it’s important to be proactive about your child’s oral health early on in life. By partnering with pediatric dentists who are experts in preventive care, you can set the stage for your child to enjoy a healthy, functional, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. At Bright Young Smiles in Lighthouse Point, FL, board-certified specialist Dr. Jared Young and our team of pediatric dentists are dedicated to helping your family establish good dental health in childhood and preventing problems before they occur. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at what pediatric dental care entails, including what to expect at your child’s first dental visit, when to start bringing your child to the dentist, and more.

At what age should kids start going to the dentist?

A child’s first dentist visit should occur by the time they turn one. Even if your child does not yet have any teeth, an early childhood dental visit and oral exam can help to identify any potential structural or developmental issues that may occur as they grow.

What happens during a pediatric dental visit?

During a routine pediatric dental appointment, our friendly staff will make your child feel comfortable and at ease. Parents are welcome and encouraged to be in the treatment room to help children feel relaxed and so that we can answer any questions that you may have. Depending on the reason for the visit, the child’s oral and dental health, and other factors, a pediatric dental visit may include some combination of the following:

• Dental exam
• Oral exam
• Radiation-free imaging
• Dental cleaning
• Fluoride treatment
• Dental sealants
• Tooth extraction
• Bonding
• BPA-free tooth-colored fillings
• Orthodontic evaluation
• Demonstration of good brushing habits
• Nutritional guidance

How often should kids go to the dentist?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children visit the dentist every six months for routine dental exams and cleanings. Patients with certain dental issues or risk factors may require more frequent visits to the dentist.

What is considered good at-home dental hygiene for kids?

Generally speaking, children should brush and floss twice daily and, depending on their age, rinse with mouthwash. It is also important to limit sugary, sticky foods. Most importantly, children should attend their routine dental exams and have professional in-office dental cleanings performed twice per year.

Why is it important to choose a pediatric dentist?

The growth and development of a child’s oral and dental structures are highly complex and vastly different than an adult’s. Children face unique dental issues as they grow, and many children also have anxiety and other emotions regarding going to the dentist. For all of these reasons, it is important that parents choose a qualified and experienced pediatric dentist that is knowledgeable about the complexities of pediatric dental care.

Give your child the best care possible with a top pediatric dentist in Lighthouse Point, FL

We all want what’s best for our children. When it comes to the health and beauty of their smile, nothing is more important than top-notch pediatric dental care. Set your child up for a lifetime of good oral health by calling Bright Young Smiles in Lighthouse Point, FL to schedule your private consultation with one of our pediatric dental specialists today.