As a parent, it can be challenging to take care of your child in their early years. Babies demand constant attention and need preventive care and measures to help them stay healthy in the long run. Parents tend to focus on various common and important health aspects of their babies, such as gastronomical issues, fever, and cough. However, they often overlook the dental health of their babies. Dental problems like cavities and other issues are also found in children. A systematic review covering the past decade (2011–2021) found that oral diseases, particularly early childhood caries, are common among children in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). If you are wondering when should I take my child to the dentist?? This blog discusses all of your queries about to care of babies in their initial stages, the safety measures, how frequently should visit a pediatric dentist, the importance of these tests, and others.
When To Take A Child To A Dentist For The First Time?
Parents usually mistake that their babies do not require any dental assistance until they are old enough, as they don’t have fully developed teeth. However,
- It is recommended that parents schedule their baby’s first dental appointment within 6 months after baby’s first teeth appear.
- Irrespective of teeth appearance, it is also recommended to consult a pediatric dental specialist after one year they are born.
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Why do early visits matter?
Babies start developing teeth around 6-12 months of age. By the time they reach 2-3 years, most of the children will already have developed their 20 primary teeth. Humans can only grow teeth twice in their life, primary and secondary. Pediatric dental visits play a significant role in detecting early signs of dental problems and keeping them in check in their early stages. Some of the other benefits of optimal dental care in the early stages include
- These visits and precautionary measures result in early speech development.
- They act as a healthy start for permanent teeth.
- Avoid any long-term consequences.
Signs to look for when taking a child to a dentist
- Schedule the first dental appointment for your baby by age 1 or within the first six months after the first tooth appears.
- If your child is suffering from constant discomfort from teeth, it is recommended to consult a pediatric dentist in Dubai.
- Any signs of pain, infection, swelling, or bleeding gums require immediate intervention.
- Apart from all of this, make sure to consult a pediatric dentist at least once a year to maintain the gum and teeth health of your baby.
Consequences of neglecting dental care for children
Now that you have understood the importance of dental care in infants and children, let us discuss some of the major consequences associated with improper dental care in infants:
Short term complications
- Persistent pain, infections, and cavities.
- Difficulty sleeping during the night due to oral discomfort.
Long term complications
- Impaired growth and development.
- Early tooth loss.
- Other serious issues can impact the educational or physical performance of the child.
How safe are these dental procedures or surgeries?
Dental surgeries are generally safe as they involve operating only gums or teeth. However, it is recommended to consider various individual factors and best practices. Consultation is crucial before any surgery or common procedure to ensure the safety of your baby. Here is a statistical list, which suggests that dental surgeries are common procedures and are mostly safe. Dental Surgeries in UAE (2021):
Among the age groups:
- 6-15 years: 36.1 thousand dental surgeries.
- 16-25 years: 43.6 thousand dental surgeries.
- 26-45 years: 33.8 thousand dental surgeries.
Every year more than 1 lakh surgeries are performed in UAE alone. So consult with your pediatric dentist and take the necessary steps to prevent future escalations.
Dental Visits Recommendations
Infants and Toddlers (0-3 years):
- First oral exam as soon as the first baby tooth comes in or by the first birthday.
- Follow your dentist’s advice for subsequent visits.
Little Explorers (4-12 years):
- Regular dental checkups every 6 months are recommended.
- Adjust based on your child’s oral health needs.
Teenagers (13-18 years):
- Continue with biannual dental visits unless advised otherwise.
- Address orthodontic concerns if needed.
Adults (19-40 years):
- Routine checkups every 6 months help maintain oral health.
- Adapt based on individual needs and risk factors.
Midlife & Beyond (41+ years):
- Regular dental visits remain crucial.
- Address age-related dental changes and preventive care.
Conclusion
In summary, every parent wants their child to smile and be happy. The key to maintaining good dental health is to establish a strong foundation from a young age. Visit our medical center and discuss any early challenges with your child’s dental health. We offer reliable and safe pediatric dental solutions for your baby.
