Children’s smiles matter year-round, but the American Dental Association chooses February to remind parents and caregivers how critical children’s dental care is.
This blog explores:
- Why Children’s Oral Health Matters
- How You Can Help Your Child Enjoy a Healthy Smile
- When to See the Dentist
Why Children’s Oral Health Matters
Baby teeth matter because they help your child learn to chew and speak. They also hold spaces for the adult teeth that will erupt later. If these teeth are lost too soon, your child may experience developmental issues, functional difficulties, and adult tooth eruption that is not on course.
Because baby teeth are so essential, it’s crucial to establish dental care early for your little one. They should see the dentist around the time of their first tooth.
The dentist can then monitor their development and help them acclimate to regular dental care.
Early dental visits with a fun and caring team may prevent dental phobia in adulthood.
Our children’s dentist in Arlington recommends two visits per year. This is also the schedule recommended by the American Dental Association.
How You Can Help Your Child Enjoy a Healthy Smile
Our team is always happy to share advice on pacifier use, nutrition, and at-home care.
For your part, it’s important to clean your toddlers’ teeth according to the dentist’s instructions. Later, you’ll help your child use a toothbrush. Before you know it, they’ll transition to independent brushing and, eventually, flossing. Our team can help with this transition by instructing your child with their toothbrush.
When to See the Dentist
Your child should see the dentist twice yearly. However, if they have a toothache or you have specific concerns, we are always here for you.
To schedule a dental checkup in Arlington for your child (or the entire family), or if you have questions for our team, call us today at (703) 522-8894.