Your child’s first dental appointment
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), your child should visit the dentist by their first birthday. You can make the first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive. Your child should be informed of the visit and told that the dentist and staff will explain all procedures and answer any questions. The less discussed concerning the visit, the better.
For very young children, a simple exam may be completed with the guardian holding the child and gentlylying them back for a mirror exam.
It is best if you refrain from using words around your child that might cause unnecessary fear, such as needle, pull, drill, or hurt. Pediatric dental offices make a practice of using words that convey the same message but are pleasant and non-frightening to the child. We have terms to describe many of the items we use and procedures we do that are less threatening to children. If you have had negative dental experiences, it is also best to limit sharing those with your child.
Why are primary teeth important?
It is very important to maintain the health of the primary teeth. Neglected cavities can, and frequently do, lead to problems that affect developing permanent teeth.
Primary teeth, also called baby teeth, are important for proper chewing and eating, providing space for permanent teeth and guiding them into the correct position, and permitting normal development of the jaw bones and muscles. Primary teeth also affect speech development and contribute to an attractive appearance.
While the front four teeth last until 6-7 years of age, the back teeth, including cuspids and molars, are not replaced until age 10-13. Lack of necessary treatment can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss, all of which can affect the developing permanent teeth.
Are dental X-rays necessary?
Radiographs, also called X-rays, are a vital and necessary part of your child’s dental diagnostic process. Without them, certain dental conditions can be missed.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends radiographs and examinations every six months for children with a high risk of tooth decay. On average, most pediatric dentists request radiographs approximately once a year. Approximately every three years, it is a good idea to obtain a complete set of radiographs, either panoramic and bitewings or periapicals and bitewings.
Pediatric dentists are particularly careful to minimize radiation exposure for their patients. With contemporary safeguards, the amount of radiation received in a dental X-ray examination is extremely small. The risk is negligible. Dental radiographs represent a far smaller risk than an undetected and untreated dental problem. Lead body aprons and shields help protect your child. Today’s equipment filters out unnecessary X-rays and restricts the X-ray beam to the area of interest. High-speed film and proper shielding help assure that your child receives minimal radiation exposure.
