When and Why Should Dental Visits for Children Begin?

Why Go to a Pediatric Dentist?

A child's smile is about more than just how things look. Aside from preventing tooth decay, pediatric dentists can help with other things related to oral health. These include:

• Growth guidance ⁠— Children's jaws develop rapidly. Early checkups allow us to monitor growth, identify potential issues like crowded teeth or bite misalignments, and intervene early.
• Gum health — Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy mouth. Pediatric dentists focus on preventing gum disease early on to set the stage for lifetime oral health.
• Healthy habits — Pediatric dentists teach children proper brushing and flossing techniques and emphasize the importance of regular dental visits.
• Early detection — These dentists perform procedures like dental X-rays that can reveal hidden problems that may not be visible during a routine examination. 

Pediatric dentists also have extra training. They know how to talk to kids in a way they understand while not making dentistry scary. 

When some children go to the dentist, you might deal with tantrums and wiggles. Thankfully, pediatric dentists have tricks to make visits smoother, even for super-nervous kids. 

Tips When Visiting a Pediatric Dentist

As parents, you can also make dentist visits less scary. One way to do this is to tell the truth but keep it simple.

Avoid using words that might create fear, such as "pain" or "needle." Instead, focus on positive aspects of the visit, like getting a new toothbrush or having strong, healthy teeth.

Books and videos help. Tons of kid-friendly resources show dentist visits in a fun way. You also set the tone for these visits. If you're nervous, kids will pick up on it. Talk about the dentist like it's a normal, easy thing.

How to Find the Right Pediatric Dentist

Choosing a dentist for your child is a big decision. You want someone who's not just great at fixing teeth but creates an experience that makes your child feel safe and maybe even excited to go back.

What to Look For In a Pediatric Dentist

Look for the following qualities and factors when choosing a pediatric dentist:

• Qualifications — Ensure the dentist is board-certified in pediatric dentistry, which signifies specialized training and expertise in children's dental care.
• Kid-friendly environment — A welcoming and engaging office environment can help your child feel comfortable during dental visits. Look for amenities like bright colors, toys, or TVs to distract young patients during cleanings.
• Convenient location — Consider the practice's location and proximity to your home or workplace. Choosing a conveniently located dentist can make scheduling and attending appointments easier, especially if you have a busy schedule.
• Emergency care availability — Inquire about the practice's after-hours emergency care policy. Knowing how they handle urgent dental issues, such as a knocked-out tooth, can provide peace of mind.

What to Avoid In a Pediatric Dentist

A clean and modern office environment reflects a commitment to hygiene and patient care. If the office appears dirty or outdated, it may be a sign of neglect.

Good dentists will also explain their treatment recommendations thoroughly and address any questions or concerns you may have. If you feel pressured to agree to treatments without a clear explanation or understanding, seek a second opinion.

Where to Start Your Search for a Pediatric Dentist

Your pediatrician, friends with kids, and even the school nurse will likely have good leads. Look at websites, too. Many have profiles on pediatric dentists, complete with parent reviews and information on the office's atmosphere.

Found a few that sound promising? Schedule a tour. Meet the dentist and get a feel for the place.

What Is the Average Cost of a Pediatric Dental Visit?

The cost estimates for pediatric dental care can vary based on several factors. The cost usually increases as the child ages. 

A pediatric dental visit can range from $60 to $150. This price typically includes routine check-ups, basic examinations, and preventive measures.

More extensive dental treatments, such as tooth extractions or cavity fillings, may cost $100 or more, depending on the severity of the case. 

If you have dental insurance, you can add your children as dependents, which may reduce out-of-pocket expenses to just the copay.

Other Ways to Care for Children’s Teeth

While visiting the dentist is essential to maintaining children's oral health, parents can implement several other important practices at home to ensure their children's teeth remain healthy.

This is how you can care for your kid’s teeth beyond the dentist:

• Establish a routine of brushing twice daily as soon as the first tooth emerges.
• Once teeth begin to touch, introduce flossing to remove food particles and plaque between teeth.
• Use fluoride toothpaste formulated for children.
• Encourage water consumption and limit sugary drinks.
• Promote a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
• Address thumb-sucking habits early so it doesn’t cause significant dental problems.
• Schedule the first dental visit around your child's first birthday.
• Maintain regular checkups, typically every six months.
• Ask your dentist any questions you have about your child's oral health.