Can Early Age Dental Visits Reduce the Cost and Need of Treatments for Children?
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Professional dental cleanings and examinations at an early age are an excellent way to help ensure a lifetime of good oral health for your family. In fact, early visits to the dentist are known to reduce the need for invasive and costly treatments in the future.
Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry understands the importance of an excellent dental care routine. Pediatric dentists Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Sandra Oh recommend parents bring their children for an appointment by their first birthday or sooner if their teeth begin to emerge above the gumline. Call our Lawrenceville, GA office today and begin taking steps toward a lifetime of beautiful smiles.
Why do children need to see the dentist early?
A 2007 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that 28% of children between the ages of two to five have cavities, with 73% requiring treatment from a dentist.
When it comes to oral health, even little children need preventive care. Early dental visits allow us to check for any development issues or problems that increase their risk of decay and gum disease in the future. These exams also allow parents to learn how to encourage proper dental hygiene at home.
How young can a child start seeing the dentist?
According to a national survey, only a small fraction of children visit the dentist by the time they turn one year old. However, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that all children have their first pediatric dental exam six months after the emergence of the first tooth, or by the time they turn one. Doing so helps families establish a lifelong relationship with a dentist they can trust.
The good news? It is never too late to see a dentist, even if your child did not have a dental exam by their first birthday. Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry is here to help your family in Lawrenceville, GA start the journey toward optimal dental health at any age.
How does a dental visit save time and money?
Pediatric dental exams help establish a healthy foundation for your child's teeth and gums. This means that complicated or expensive dental treatments may not be necessary down the road.
In fact, one study shows that early starters (children who began dental care at younger than four years old) had less need for restorations, crowns, and extractions than late starters (children who began dental care at four years of age or older). Their families also had lower treatment costs.
How our pediatric dentists make the process easier
Dr. Jeni and Dr. Oh work hard to make each dental visit as comfortable as possible, even if your child feels nervous or anxious about going to the dentist. Our professionals take the time to explain each part of the exam and the benefits of proper oral hygiene. They also use special tools and techniques to ensure that your child feels relaxed and in control of their dental care.
Begin your dental health journey today
Early pediatric dental visits are an important step in helping your child maintain a healthy, happy smile. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA, call to book an appointment. Pediatric dentists Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Sandra Oh know how important it is to ensure your child’s teeth and gums are in the best of health.