When we are new parents, our baby’s oral health probably isn’t at the forefront of our mind. Don’t worry, you don’t have to worry about it right away; however, you should be thinking about shopping for a dentist by the time your child turns one.
In fact, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) says that your child should visit a dentist by the time they are 1 year old, or within 6 months of their first baby tooth erupting.
So, what should you consider when you are looking for a family dentist? Let’s explore why choosing a quality family practice for your youngster is so important!
Do Baby Teeth Matter?
The short answer: yes! It may seem like your child’s baby teeth aren’t there for anything aside from chewing; but they do serve more than one purpose.
Baby teeth:
- Improve speech development
- Teach your children how to properly chew, aiding in nutrition
- Save space for their adult teeth
- Ensure proper alignment when their adult teeth begin to surface
Choosing a Dentist
Now that you know that preserving your child’s baby teeth during their first several years is important for their overall health; how do you choose the right dentist?
You’ll want to look for a family-friendly practice that offers a range of services, has block-scheduling, and offers in-house orthodontics.
Block-scheduling: Keeping track of your family’s appointments is stressful and no one likes visiting the dentist several times a year for separate children. To make life easier, block-scheduling provides the opportunity for you to book your entire family’s appointments in one block of time.
In-house Orthodontist: During the first few years, your child will see a general dentist; but when they turn 7 years old, they will need to see an orthodontist. Opting for a practice that offers a wide range of services, including an in-house orthodontist, eliminates the hassle of finding a new practice.
Contact Your Colorado Springs Dentist
At Colorado Dental Group, we offer top-rated dentistry for the whole family! Our team includes general dentists, orthodontists and oral surgeons; so you can receive comprehensive care for everyone under one roof. To learn more, schedule your appointment today.
For more tips about children’s dental health, check out our 7 tips for living mouth smart.