3 Key Reasons Why Pediatric Dentist Appointments Are So Important

Posted on February 20, 2024

Scheduling pediatric dentist appointments early on and sticking to them is one of the best things you can do for your child’s health. You may wonder if they’re necessary at such a young age or figure you can put them off. However, there are some compelling reasons to make dental care a priority right away. Here are three key reasons scheduling a checkup with a pediatric dentist matters.

1. Promote Lifelong Good Dental Habits

Getting your child accustomed to visiting the pediatric dentist helps establish a habit of solid oral care from the start. Bringing them to their first appointment as early as six months up to their first birthday introduces them to the concept of dental visits in a comfortable way. Starting children early with things like toothbrushing and having their teeth examined also makes these practices a normal part of their routine. As your pediatric dentist can explain, setting up positive associations with dental care from infancy means it continues seamlessly into adulthood.

2. Monitor Early Oral Development

A pediatric dentist studies extensively to become an expert in children’s teeth, so they can monitor key developmental stages. For example, they check that new teeth are emerging properly and on schedule. They also watch for potential issues like lip ties or tongue thrusting. They help with teething pain relief and other unique childhood dental needs. Without periodic appointments, you miss out on their specialized knowledge.

3. Prevent Minor Issues Becoming Major Ones

Catching small problems early on can help avoid far more extensive treatments later. For instance, your pediatric dentist may discover some early decay. They can fill cavities when they’re small before they progress deeper into the tooth. Repairing larger cavities often requires more invasive procedures, like dental crowns, down the road. According to the World Health Organization, worldwide, it’s estimated that oral diseases affect 3.5 billion people. Practicing preventive care saves you and your child time, hassle, and money in the long run.

The health of your child’s teeth matters more than you may realize now. Scheduling routine checks with a pediatric dentist from the start offers huge benefits. It’s an integral part of laying the foundation for excellent lifelong oral care. When you stay on top of those pediatric dentist appointments, you do your child a world of good. Call Jacaranda Smiles today to schedule a dental appointment for your child.