Mukilteo Family Dentistry : Signs It’s Time to Take Your Child to the Dentist
http://www.HarbourPlaceDental.com
It is common knowledge that oral hygiene begins in childhood, and it is important that you teach your children proper oral hygiene habits that they can take into adulthood. However, not everyone knows when it is necessary to take their children to the dentist. What age is the “right” age for a first checkup? And, what are the special circumstances that warrant a trip to the dentist’s office? At Mukilteo Family Dentistry of Dr. Onishi we think following are some signs and situations that indicate it’s time to take your child to the dentist:
Baby’s first dental exam: Most experts agree that infants should have their first dental examinations within the first year of life. If your infant sleeps with a bottle (full of anything besides water), then you may have to visit a pediatric dentist even sooner than that. A good rule of thumb is to pay a visit to the dentist once your baby starts cutting in teeth.
Accident or injury: If your child has a slip and fall, experiences a blow to the mouth, or in any other way damages a tooth, you should get to a pediatric dentist, and pronto. While slightly chipped teeth aren’t always a serious matter, a pediatric dentist should still be called in to evaluate the level of damage and determine if any filing or filling is necessary to prevent further damage. Even if you don’t notice any immediate damage, you should take your child in for an oral examination in the case of pain that won’t go away, as it might be that your child has a tooth fracture that you cannot see. Even hairline fractures can extend into the gums, reach the nerve, and cause major (very painful!) tooth and gum infections.
Cavities: Most children get cavities, and while it may be true that some cavities simply fall out along with the baby teeth, some cavities lead to deep decay that can result in abscesses, infections, and the spread of further decay to other teeth. If you notice those tell-tale black spots in your child’s teeth, it’s time to pay a visit to the pediatric dentist.
Oral hygiene is an important part of overall health and well-being, and good oral hygiene habits begin in childhood. It is important that you care for your children’s oral health now, so that they can develop their own healthy dental habits as adults. An integral part of your children’s oral upkeep is finding a pediatric dentist you can trust. The professionals at Harbour Place Dental Mukilteo Family Dentistry of Dr. Onishi, Dr. Sarsfield go above and beyond when it comes to helping your children maintain optimal oral health and help preserve their healthy smile. They are well regarded and trusted by many families in Mukilteo, Everett, Mill Creek WA area.
Give them a call at (425) 493-8111 or visit their website and contact them in private or e-mail at harbourpldental@gmail.com and have your condition assessed immediately. They will recommend the best course of action for you. Follow their advice to keep your teeth in good shape and decay away.