From an early age, a visit to a Pediatric Dentist in Smyrna TN at least once a year is recommended. Failing to do this, parents can count on specific pivotal periods being missed and, thus, their child’s oral health suffering for it. Do not hesitate -; schedule an appointment today.
1-year and 3-year old milestones
A child’s first visit to their Pediatric Dentist in Smyrna TN should be a happy and joyful one. It should also be one that helps the child and the dentist familiarize themselves with each other. Dentists will usually inspect the child’s mouth, mainly looking for signs of the dreaded “bottle syndrome.”
Between the first visit (around a year of age) and three years, parents should schedule routine follow-up appointments every six months. At the three-year mark, the child should have 20 teeth or so. The practitioner examines each of them, possibly places fluoride on each and then gives parenting advice on feeding habits (includes harmful practices such as sucking the nipple or thumb).
School-time visits
The first permanent molars appear in a child around the time he or she starts kindergarten. These “6-year-old teeth” often go unnoticed as they push back primary (milk) teeth. They are crucial for the stability of other teeth that are organized around them.
However, these are the most affected by cavities because of their location, unfinished mineralization, and pronounced relief. It is possible to protect them by applying a sealant -; a painless application that most children find pleasant.
9/10-years old
The child is in a stage of “mixed dentition” around this age, which means there is a coexistence of temporary teeth and permanent teeth. The child’s gums can be painful during these years as the teeth are misaligned. Some may even shift: these issues do not promote good oral hygiene and encourage an upsurge of cavities.
13-years of age
Permanent teeth should be in place, including permanent second molars. Like first molars, second molars can be protected by sealing the tooth’s grooves. Preadolescence often marks changes in eating behavior (snacking and consuming sugary drinks), sometimes accompanied by poor oral hygiene habits. Brushing is, therefore, particularly important.
15 to 18-years old
All permanent teeth are visible. To keep them intact, it is essential to spot cavities as soon as possible, before they become painful. Around 18, the child will see their wisdom teeth start to come in. Contact Ascent Dental for more information. Like us on Facebook.
