How to Choose a Dentist for Your Child

August 26, 2019

chosing right dentist for your childWhen 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.