When it comes to children’s dentistry, many parents are full of questions about their children’s oral health and dental hygiene. To help our patients find the answers they need, our team at Hutchinson Family Dental have provided a list of frequently asked questions regarding pediatric dentistry:
When should my child start visiting the dentist?
We recommend that your child visit the dentist within six months of receiving their first tooth, or by their first birthday.
How often should my child see a dentist?
On average, your child should receive a dental exam and cleaning every six months. However, special circumstances may require your child to visit Hutchinson Family Dental more frequently. In these cases, our team is happy to help you create a treatment plan to help you know when to expect the next appointment.
Why are cavities an issue if my child’s baby teeth will fall out anyway?
Primary teeth are important to your child’s development because it is with the help of these teeth that your child will learn to speak and chew. They also act as holding spaces for the permanent teeth. The premature loss of a primary tooth can result in a crooked smile, requiring further dental work later on in your child’s development.
What are dental sealants and how can they help my child?
Dental sealants are tooth-colored coatings that Dr. Jay Stucky can apply to the chewing surfaces of your child’s teeth. These coatings provide a barrier between the tooth and harmful bacteria, reducing the risk of tooth decay.
How can I teach my child excellent dental habits?
It is important for your child to understand why they must brush and floss every day. Flavorful toothpaste and fun toothbrushes will help your child enjoy taking care of their teeth. Teaching by example is also very important, as your daily habits will have a profound effect on your child.
How can I teach my child to not fear the dentist?
Many children fear the dental office because it is unfamiliar. We encourage you to begin taking your child to the dentist at a young age to help them acclimate to the environment. As your child grows, be sure to explain the importance of visiting the dentist. Your child may feel more comfortable if they accompany you to your dental appointment and see how relaxed you are in the dental chair.
Can thumb-sucking damage my child’s teeth?
Thumb-sucking is a common habit among young children, and most grow out of it by age 4. However, damage can occur if your child aggressively sucks their thumb or continues the habit after receiving permanent teeth. If you are concerned about your child’s thumb-sucking, please visit Hutchinson Family Dental so that we can monitor your child’s oral health.
What is baby bottle tooth decay?
Baby bottle tooth decay is tooth decay caused by prolonged exposure to sugar and acid, usually as a result of a child taking a bottle of juice or milk to bed. We recommend that your child finish their nighttime bottle before bed. If your child needs a bottle to feel calm enough to sleep, please provide water as an alternative to sugary drinks.
If you have further questions about your child’s health, please do not hesitate to contact Hutchinson Family Dental at 620-663-9119 today. Our dentist, Dr. Jay Stucky, and our team encourage parents to be involved and proactive in their children’s oral health, and we are happy to meet with you if you have any concerns about pediatric dentistry in Hutchinson, Kansas.
