What is Pediatric Dentistry?

We wanted to share a recent question we received at Sterling Dental Center.

I am a new mom and was wondering when my child needs to start seeing the dentist. Since they lose all their baby teeth, do they even need to see the dentist before they have adult teeth?

This is actually a fairly common question that we get, and a lot of people don’t know the guidelines for dental care for children. While we understand the logic that baby teeth do fall out, please don’t wait that long to bring your child to the dentist! Pediatric dentistry exists for a reason.

Pediatric dentistry is the dental care of adolescents, from babies to teenagers. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children go to the dentist for the first time by their first birthday. Even better, they should see the dentist within six months of getting their first tooth. On average, children don’t see the dentist for the first time until they are two and a half – which is way too late!

There are several reasons that children need to see the dentist, especially from a young age.

• Teaches them how to properly brush and floss
  
• Teaches parents how to care for the children’s teeth
  
• Teaches good dental habits from a young age
  
• Aids in the overall care of baby teeth
  

It is important to take care of your child’s baby teeth, because they set a strong foundation for chewing habits, save space in their mouth for permanent teeth, and help with speech development. Baby teeth are also responsible for those adorable kid smiles we love to see! Parents and children should make sure to take care of baby teeth until they fall out naturally.

At Sterling Dental Center, Dr. Bursich is our pediatric dentist , with lots of experience with children patients. As a grandfather, he relates easily to children and helps ease their fears. The dentist does not need to be scary experience for kids. Start them early and teach them that it is a normal part of their overall health!

Call Sterling Dental Center today to set up an appointment for your kids. Don’t wait until their baby teeth fall out!