Taking your child to the dentist as a baby or toddler allows his or her oral health to be monitored for early problems and abnormalities. Early dental visits can reduce anxiety and encourage healthy oral habits for a lifetime of good dental health.
Between 3 and 9 months, your infant’s primary teeth will begin to emerge. As a local family dentist, Millennium Smiles recommends bringing children in for routine dental visits around the age of 3, when typically all primary teeth have erupted. Early routine dental visits allow your Frisco family dentist to monitor your child’s oral health and spot developing dental concerns. Patient education and regular visits will reduce risk of cavities and other dental problems.
Even baby teeth are at risk for decay, especially since the teeth are regularly covered with milk or juice, often for extended periods of time. Research shows that children who develop cavities in their baby teeth are more likely to develop cavities as an adult. Your Frisco dentist will advise you on good oral hygiene for your child, including the best time to transition away from the bottle or sippy cup.
Taking good care of your child’s baby teeth is important. Although primary teeth do eventually fall out, they play an important role in helping your child bite, chew, and speak clearly. Not only do primary teeth help children develop proper speech, they also hold space in the jaws for permanent teeth that are growing under the gums. When a baby tooth is lost too early, permanent teeth can drift into the empty space and cause crooked and/or crowded adult teeth. Starting infants with good oral care can help protect their teeth for decades to come.
As your child grows, your Frisco family dentist will introduce and reinforce important treatments and habits for preventing decay, tooth loss and gingivitis. Preventative dental exams, teeth cleaning and fluoride treatments are important tools used to maintain good dental health throughout your child’s life. As their permanent teeth grow in, we offer dental sealants and sports mouth guards to protect them.
Starting dental visits at an early age will allow your child to become comfortable with the dentist. The staff at Millennium Smiles will take the time to teach your child how to properly brush and floss their teeth.
Millennium Smiles, serving Frisco and Little Elm, provides dental services for your growing family to keep everyone smiling! Schedule your child’s appointment to start their lifelong dental care!