You know it’s important for your child to see the dentist, but just how often should you schedule their dental appointments? It’s easy to remember because it’s the same amount for you, too. You should plan dental visits for you and your child every six months. Of course, depending on your kid’s oral health, their dentist may recommend coming in for more frequent visits. In general, however, sticking to appointments semiannual appointments is a safe bet.
Reasons for Regular Dental Visits
Two times a year might seem like overkill, but there are many reasons why it’s beneficial. Here are some of the main reasons why your child should see the dentist every six months:
- Monitor Tooth Development — During childhood, it seems like everything is changing in the blink of an eye. As your kid’s first teeth come in and then eventually fall out to make room for permanent teeth, it’s important for a dentist to keep an eye on things to make sure teeth don’t come in crooked, are missing, or won’t cause speech issues down the road. It’s easier to adjust the alignment of teeth while your child is still young so it’s great to catch concerns as soon as they manifest.
- Look for Cavities — Tooth decay is a big concern when it comes to children’s teeth since kiddos love those sweet and starchy snacks that are perfect starters for cavities. Checking for cavities ensures that we can stop them from turning into major issues.
- Check Fluoride — Most of us get enough fluoride from our toothpaste and our city’s water supply, but if your child has a deficiency, their dentist can provide fluoride treatment.
- Start Off on the Right Foot — An additional benefit of bringing your child to the dentist regularly is giving them a good foundation when it comes to their dental health. The sooner kids see the dentist, the less fear they’ll have about dental appointments moving forward. Plus, the dentist can give recommendations for cleaning their teeth at home so they can grow up with healthy habits.
What About My Kid’s First Visit?
Here’s a simple phrase to help you remember when you should schedule your child’s first-ever trip to the dentist: “Get it done by one!” You should either bring your kid to the dentist either when their first tooth comes in or by their first birthday.
Ready to schedule your child’s dental appointment? Contact Apple Springs Family Dentistry today!
