Does Your Child Need Visits to a Pediatric Dentist?

The pediatric dentist in Calgary is specially trained to handle problems specifically for children. They can handle dental developmental difficulties and root canals on adult teeth that haven’t formed fully. Unfortunately, most children are treated by general dentists who often have a relationship with the entire family and therefore is knowledgeable about the history of the family, which may apply to your child. If you are having trouble deciding on the type of dentist you should use for your child, it is suggested that you research for a dentist near me or ask your family dentist or your child’s pediatrician for suggestions.

When Should Your Child Be Taken for the First Dental Visit?

The best time for your child’s dental visit is after six months when the first tooth erupts. This time is perfect for children’s dentistry in Calgary, AB, to carefully examine the development of your child’s mouth. Dental problems can begin early, and therefore the sooner you visit the dentist, the better it will be. The dentist can also provide you with special preventive care measures to safeguard against any problems such as baby bottle decay, gum disease, prolonged thumb-sucking, and teething irritations.

How to Prepare the Child Proper Dental Visit?

Before the visit to the dentist in Calgary, you should enquire with the professional about the procedures that will be performed to avoid any surprises. Your child’s reaction during the visit needs to be managed, and therefore you must plan a course of action. Many children will not be co-operative, but talking to your child about what to expect and trying to buildup some excitement and understanding about the upcoming visit will help to ease some anxiety. Carry your child’s medical records to assist you in completing the medical history forms during the appointment.

When Will the Child Lose Baby Teeth?

Children begin losing their baby teeth by the age of four. Their front teeth will initially be lost in this process continues until the age of 12 or 13 when all the permanent teeth would have erupted.

What Is the Importance of Fixing Baby Teeth with Decay?

The children’s dentist in NW Calgary will suggest it is highly essential to maintain baby teeth because they can hold the space for the eruption of permanent teeth. Baby teeth with decay that are removed too early will not leave the space necessary for the permanent tooth, which can only be regained through orthodontic treatment. Infected baby teeth can also cause permanent teeth to erupt improperly, causing permanent defects to the enamel and weaker teeth.

Can Tooth Decay Affect Infants?

Surprising as it may sound, tooth decay can indeed affect infants, and in most cases, it occurs in the upper front teeth but may also affect the other teeth. It may be difficult for the parents to realize that baby teeth can be affected soon after they appear. Unfortunately, the decay can also change the underlying bone structure, impacting the development of permanent teeth. Baby bottle tooth decay is the primary reason for this problem because it is caused by long-term exposure of the child’s teeth to sugary liquids that can attack the teeth and gums to cause the decay.

What Can You Do to Protect Your Child’s Oral Health at Home?

You can begin by cleaning the infant’s gums with a clean damp cloth but may inquire with the dentist whether you may apply a tiny dab of toothpaste on the gums. Immediately after the first tooth erupts, begin brushing them with a small soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized grain of fluoride toothpaste. Help your child brush his or her teeth at night because it is the most important time to brush. It can prevent the buildup of plaque and reduce the susceptibility to cavities because of lower salivary flow when sleeping. Your child can learn to brush his or her teeth by themselves by the age of five with proper parental supervision. Allowing your child a demonstration of how you brush your teeth can impart the importance of good oral hygiene.

How to Help Your Child Prevent Tooth Decay?

Brushing after every meal and flossing with fluoride treatments are the best methods to prevent tooth decay. Children should be supervised when flossing until the age of 10. If you have any concerns about the dental health of your child or are you looking for some tips to prevent tooth decay, you can always ask the pediatric dentist in Calgary for advice.