As a child dentist based in Claremont, we have seen the consequences of what happens when children are not taken for regular dental check-ups.

We recommend that you start bringing your child to see us within 6 months after their first teeth appear or at 12 months of age, whichever comes first.

How often should I bring my child for a dental check-up?

We advise that after your child’s first dental check-up, you bring them for regular dental check-ups every 6 months.

In this article, we list 5 top reasons why you should make sure your child visits our dental practice every 6 months.

1. Early cavity detection

Although you may think that baby teeth do not require extensive care because they will eventually fall out, it’s important to remember that your child's permanent teeth grow directly beneath those baby teeth.

Furthermore, baby teeth help to guide permanent teeth into place and play an important role in your child's long-term dental health.

Regular visits to our dentistry will ensure cavities are treated during early stages, while they are still small and pain free. This will save you time and money, and will save your child a lot of pain.

Cavities that are left untreated can turn into painful infections that could require root canal.

Additionally, if left untreated they can grow and spread to other nearby teeth.

2. Teeth cleaning

Your child’s dental check-ups should include teeth cleaning and polishing.

As a parent, you may take excellent care of your child's teeth but may still experience problems for which you cannot see symptoms.

A regular teeth cleaning will make it hard for cavity-causing bacteria to populate your child’s mouth.

Furthermore, dental cleanings help to remove built up plaque and tartar that even regular brushing cannot remove.

3. Checking on Adult Teeth

Regular dental check-ups allow us to examine and ensure your child’s teeth are developing correctly, and that missing or crooked teeth are watched.

In addition, we can identify signs of a fluoride deficiency and recommend appropriate adjustments in your child's fluoride intake or the application of a topical fluoride solution.

Moreover, we can also explain and demonstrate proper brushing and flossing technique to you and your child.

4. Preventing possible dental problems

Regular dental check-ups also play a big role in early detection or preventing dental problems before they start.

These can include, the early detection of orthodontic issues. We use interceptive orthodontics to start early treatment of orthodontic problems - helping to prevent complications later in life.

5. Build Up a Comfort Level

Children are generally scared of dentists, that being said – so are full grown men, haha.

By regularly bringing your child to us from an early age, it will help them feel more comfortable in our dental practice.

Additionally, it also helps to build up your child's comfort and general confidence levels, while reducing both your own and your child's anxiety and fear about the dentist, resulting in stress-free visits in the future.

Cloud 9 Dental – Your Pediatric Dentist in Claremont

Your child is constantly growing and changing, and the same goes for their teeth.

Bringing your child to the dentist twice a year may seem a bit excessive, especially when your child's teeth look fine.

However, frequent visits serve many purposes. Above all else, regular check-ups teach your child the importance of lifelong good oral hygiene.

For more information about our dental practice, please contact us.