When to Visit a Pediatric Dentist

Dentistry comprises various specializations depending on the type of treatment and the separate groups of patients requiring special care. Pediatric dentists specialize in dental treatments and procedures for children and are also trained in dealing with young patients.

Read on to learn how to best manage your child’s dental health and when to visit a pediatric dentist. For expert pediatric dental care, please contact Northgate Dental in Aurora, IL.

All About Your Child’s First Dental Visit

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends you schedule your child’s first dental appointment no later than six months after their first tooth erupts, which is usually around the age of one. This is a good opportunity to also tackle habits such as finger sucking or the use of pacifiers, assess the child’s teething sequence, and identify issues like baby bottle decay.

Getting your child to become familiar with the dental office environment also helps prevent dental anxiety later on. Once your child gets accustomed to visiting the dentist, they should be taken in for routine visits every six months. This gap can be reduced to three to four months if the child does not develop adequate oral hygiene habits at home.

Services Provided by a Pediatric Dentist

• General Checkups

A periodic dental checkup is extremely important for a child. It helps identify and treat dental problems at an early stage, preventing the need for more complex treatments in the future.

For most children, the dentist will recommend regular cleanings and treatments like sealants or fluoride applications that help prevent dental decay. As the baby’s milk teeth begin to fall, the dentist will also ensure the proper conditions for the eruption of their permanent teeth exist.

• Decay Treatments

When cavities develop, the dentist will remove the decayed part and fill up the cavity with special materials. Treating decay early on can prevent complications and help avoid extractions.

If decay has reached an advanced stage, the dentist may recommend a crown restoration (prefabricated ones are used in children often) or the extraction of the tooth if the permanent one is close to eruption.

• Emergency Treatments

Since children are more prone to falls and injuries, dental emergencies are very common. A pediatric dentist can treat dental injuries and provide specialized care that helps maintain the child’s long-term oral health.

For expert pediatric dentistry services in Aurora, IL, schedule an appointment at Northgate Dental by calling (630) 892-0015 or visiting us at 330 N Lake St, Aurora, IL 60506.