Pediatric dentistry requires a more specialized approach than general dentistry. A good pediatric dentist should have both extra training and experience treating patients of all ages. We offer pediatric dentistry with care and patience at Hillfield Pediatric & Family Dentistry. Contact our office in Layton, UT to schedule a dental appointment for your child!
When Should My Child Start Visiting the Dentist?
You should start scheduling regular dental visits for your child after their first birthday or once their teeth have started to come in. After their first appointment, we may recommend that your child return for check-ups about once every six months.
Children go through many changes within a short period of time as they grow; the teeth are no exception. Consistent dental appointments will also help prevent any oral health concerns like tooth decay before they begin.
Why Is Pediatric Dentistry So Important?
Children usually start to lose their baby teeth around six years of age. While these primary teeth are not permanent, they should still be protected from cavities and decay. If a child develops a cavity in one of their primary teeth, the problem will not just go away when that tooth falls out.
Tooth decay, when left untreated, will continue to spread and lead to more serious problems like gum disease and difficulty eating or speaking. Baby teeth also pave the way for permanent teeth to come in as smoothly as possible. Keeping them healthy and allowing them to fall out only when they’re ready will go a long way in making sure the adult teeth will erupt as they should.
Cementing good dental habits early on in life also greatly reduces the risk of oral health concerns later on. Our goal is not only to prevent tooth decay but to also teach our patients how to prevent it on their own.
How Can I Help My Child Keep a Healthy Smile?
The first and best line of defense against tooth decay is good oral hygiene. This includes daily brushing and flossing, both of which you will need to help your child with for the first few years of his or her life.
Fluoride treatments and dental sealants can also strengthen the teeth and prevent cavities. Sealants, for example, will keep plaque and debris from getting trapped between tiny grooves in the teeth.
Visit Hillfield for Comprehensive Pediatric Dental Care
At Hillfield Pediatric & Family Dentistry, we serve Layton, UT and the surrounding area with dental care for patients of all ages. Contact us today to get your child started on the path to healthy teeth for life!
