Is Children’s Dentistry in Buford Really Important?

While your child won’t keep his or her first teeth forever, that doesn’t mean those tiny pearly whites don’t need conscientious care. Maintaining your child’s dental health now will provide health benefits well into adulthood, as primary (baby) teeth serve some extremely important functions. Today we’re discussing the importance of children’s dentistry in Buford.

For one thing, primary teeth serve as guides for the eruption of permanent teeth by holding the space into which these new teeth will grow. The crowns of the permanent teeth actually push against the roots of the baby teeth, causing them to melt away. In this way, the adult teeth can take their proper place.

What’s more, your child’s primary teeth will be there for most of their childhood, helping your child to bite, chew and speak. For the first six or so years, he or she will be relying on primary teeth exclusively to perform these important functions.

Until around age 12, your child will have a mix of primary and permanent teeth. You will want to make sure those teeth stay healthy and are lost naturally when it’s time.

Your Child’s First Teeth

Your child’s 20 baby teeth will begin to appear usually between six and nine months, though in some cases it may start as early as three months or as late as twelve months.  Your baby may experience teething discomfort during this process.

Your infant’s gums and newly erupting teeth should be gently wiped after each feeding with a water-soaked gauze pad or damp washcloth. Starting at age 2, when there are more teeth in the mouth, establish a daily brushing routine with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and no more than a thin smear of fluoridated toothpaste.

Your Child’s First Appointment for Children’s Dentistry in Buford

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that you take your child to the dentist by his/her first birthday. Though this may sound early, we can teach you proper pediatric dentistry techniques, check for cavities, and watch for developmental problems.

Treatments for Children’s Dentistry in Buford

There are a variety of dental treatments we provide to prevent tooth decay in children or to save or repair teeth when necessary. They include:

• Topical fluoride into the enamel of teeth, making it harder and more resistant to decay;
• Dental sealants prevent cavities by sealing the little grooves on the chewing surfaces of back teeth;
• Root canal treatment to save an injured or severely decayed tooth;
• Bonding to repair chips and minor fractures to front teeth.

Orthodontic Concerns: By around age 7, most malocclusions have become evident. Orthodontic treatment around this time can help direct proper tooth positioning and/or jaw growth, eliminating or simplifying the need for later treatment. There are many orthodontic problems that can be detected early and are examples of why a trained professional should evaluate your child during his/her growth and development.

Sports and Your Child’s Teeth: If your child is active in sports, we highly recommend a custom-made mouth guard. According to the American Dental Association, an athlete is 60 times more likely to suffer dental harm when not wearing one of these protective devices.

Remember – teaching your child about the importance of good oral health at an early age will instill healthy habits later in life. If your child is of the appropriate age for children’s dentistry in Buford, call our office today to schedule a consultation.