Usually, kids do not get their first teeth until the age of around six months. As they get older, however, routine dental exams are essential. Good oral hygiene should start before your child’s teeth appear. This is something that many parents are not aware of. Regular dental exams for kids are a crucial part of preventative dental health care. 

 

Reasons for Taking Your Child for Regular Dental Exams
 

It is essential to take your little ones for these exams to protect their oral health. Routine exams will allow your child’s dentist to detect any dental problems early. In case of any problem, early detection will improve the chances of effective treatment. The dentist can also provide tips for caring for one’s teeth. 

Primary Teeth

After birth, about 20 of a baby’s primary teeth are present and developed in the jaws. Every child, however, develops their primary teeth at different times. Even if your child’s primary teeth are yet to erupt, you should still wipe down their gums with a wet, soft cloth. As soon as the teeth start appearing, you should keep them clean with a soft toothbrush designed for babies. 
 

Doing so is essential for the proper development of your baby’s teeth. It will open up a new world of chewing and nourishment. You also need to understand that teeth play a vital role when it comes to speaking properly, in addition to holding space in your child’s jaw for permanent teeth. A gummy smile is quite cute on a child; however, toothy toddlers are adorable as well. 

 

Importance of Routine Dental Exams for Children

There are tons of reasons why your child should undergo routine dental checkups. These include:

Prevention of Tooth Decay and Cavities

Everyone, including young kids, is prone to tooth decay and cavities. Regular dental exams, coupled with good oral hygiene, will help prevent oral problems early and reduce the risks of dental issues from worsening. Management of the oral issues will be easier when your child’s dentist identifies them early. 

It Will Help Your Child Appreciate the Importance of Good Dental Hygiene

You should educate your little one on the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene at an early age. This is why pediatric dentists recommend taking children for their first dental exam once they turn two years old. The dentist will also help you choose the right toothbrush for your child. 

 

Prevention of Malocclusion

As stated earlier, your child’s primary teeth serve as the foundation for permanent teeth. They play a critical role in ensuring that the position and spacing are appropriate. If you ignore your child’s oral health, it can lead to the misalignment of permanent teeth. This is because they will lack the space to grow and fit correctly. Routine dental exams will make it easy for the pediatric dentist to correct any alignment problem. 

Other reasons why your child should get routine dental exams:

• They will help keep their oral system clean and healthy.

• They can help your child understand the importance of reducing their sugar intake.

To learn more about routine dental checkups, visit MAC Family Dentistry at our office in Mandeville, Louisiana. You can also call (985) 238-3797 to schedule an appointment today.