Does my child really need dental checkups every six months?

Childhood dental care is incredibly important. Not only are children very susceptible to dental caries (tooth decay), they also need routine checkups since their bodies are developing rapidly. Moreover, children will undergo tooth transition—the phase of development where baby teeth fall out and are slowly replaced by permanent adult teeth. Routine visits to a pediatric dentist can help your child establish good oral health, prevent disease, and correct potential issues as soon as possible.
 

What Parents Need to Know About Dental Checkups

Dental checkups, especially those for children, are very comprehensive. A checkup involves more than just evaluating the health of teeth and gums. While assessing the health of teeth and gums is incredibly important, there are a myriad of other potential issues and conditions a pediatric dentist will look for. During checkups, our team will evaluate the health of the occlusion (the way that the jaws and teeth line up), emerging adult teeth, and the density and size of jawbones.

A child’s checkup can reveal congenital issues and developmental issues as well as common conditions like tooth decay and gum disease. In almost all cases, early detection of disease and abnormalities yields conservative and cost-effective treatment.
 

Dental Cleanings Are Important, Too

In addition to scheduling bi-annual checkups with our pediatric dentist, a child should receive two cleanings a year. Professional cleanings are non-invasive. The purpose of a cleaning is to remove harmful substances like tartar, clean thoroughly between teeth and along the gums, and polish teeth. A cleaning is also a great time for your child to learn more about the importance of oral hygiene.

Call us today to reserve a checkup with our team at Fort Worth Children’s Dentistry!