When Should Your Child See a Dentist?

If you happen to have kids, there are many things you have to take care of regarding their health. However, taking care of their teeth is very important. Problems with their teeth can cause all kinds of other health problems later in life, so it is imperative that you take care of this now. Wondering when your child should see the dentist and what other things you can do to keep your child's teeth in great shape? Here are some tips and ideas that can help you out.

Tips for Babies and Toddlers

Young babies don't have teeth yet that have come through, but they are there. Make sure you give your child a good diet and avoid sugar to help young babies have strong teeth when they come in. Once babies start getting teeth, it is a good idea to wipe the gums off after they feed and get them started drinking from a cup as soon as possible. After your baby turns one, you can start brushing teeth with a tiny bit of toothpaste, making sure that they don't swallow it. You can help them out by avoiding sugary foods and feeing them healthy foods, which will help keep their teeth in great shape.

Kids From 3-6

After age three, kids are talking, and getting a bit older. This is the time to get them started in good habits for dental health. Have them brush their own teeth, but supervise them as well. You can start having your kids floss too, getting some easy tools to make it easier for them. Make sure you work on getting them to stop sucking their thumb too, since this can end up causing dental problems in the future.

Six to Teens

At this point in time, kids begin losing their baby teeth and start getting their adult, or permanent, teeth in. Your kids should be able to brush their teeth without you watching, you should have them flossing on a regular basis, and mouthwash is a great idea as well, since it kills germs in the mouth. Good eating habits will be important too.

When to See the Dentist

So at which point should your child see a dentist? Usually it is a good idea to start taking kids to the dentist on a regular basis after your kids lose their baby teeth. Once they have their permanent teeth in place, have them go to the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Sometimes having the dentists apply sealants to the molars of kids can be helpful since it protects the pits and grooves of the teeth from bacteria that can cause cavities to occur. From this point on, children and teens need to see a dentist at least for regular checkups to make sure that there are no problems, such as cavities, that need to be dealt with.

Dr. Michael Riccobene provides quality North Carolina Dental Services and is the leading Cosmetic Dentist for the regions of Selma, Garner, Clayton, Benson and Knightdale for services including Teeth Whitening and Invisalign