February’s almost here, and it’s time again for the American Dental Association’s annual National Children’s Dental Health Month. This month-long event was established to raise awareness about the importance of looking after children’s oral health.
The Novato Family Dentist stresses the importance of getting your child’s oral health off to a good start with regular exams and other preventive services. The most common question among parents is about the timing for their child’s first dental visit. We recommend that your child’s first exam takes place when the first baby tooth appears, but no later than age one.
Take the Steps to Stop Decay Before it Starts
Prevention is an essential part of any dental treatment plan, especially for young children. The sooner we see your child, the better chance we have to detect potential problems. Protecting your child’s baby teeth is critical, because problems with the baby teeth at this stage can impact the development of your child’s permanent teeth.
Once your child reaches the age of two or three, they most likely have all their baby teeth. This is the ideal time to schedule regular exams with the Novato Family Dentist and discuss preventive treatments like fluoride and sealants.
These preventive treatments are necessary, because the premature loss of a baby tooth can change the way the permanent teeth develop, potentially leading to crowding, misalignment, and the need for orthodontics.
Please Contact Us for Your Child’s Appointment
Establishing a routine of dental care when your child is young sets the stage for great oral health throughout their lives. Positive experiences with a caring family dentist at an early age are the key to keeping them on the road to a lifetime of excellent oral health. Please contact us, and we will be happy to schedule a convenient appointment for your child’s dental exam.