Choosing a pediatric dentist offers a wide range of support for first time parents, and for parents in general, who want the best oral care for their child. When a child gets his or her first tooth, parents are excited, and they should be. As the child grows, their teeth develop. In fact, when the child reaches a year old, he or she may have one or more teeth.

At this time, parents should pay close attention to their child’s teeth and gums. This is the moment when parents should be thinking about choosing a dentist. Although most dentists prefer to see children during their preschool age years, this is not the case at Wright Smiles Pediatric Dentistry.

We believe that every smile needs to shine as bright as the sun, and every child deserves a bright shiny smile. We see children when they get their first tooth, so we can prevent oral decay, and check for any signs of potential gum disease. Some parents may feel that choosing a dentist for their child at such a young age is not appropriate. We see it differently.

By the time a child reaches preschool, he or she should already have a regular pediatric dentist. We believe that every child should get the best possible dental care, as soon as the child gets his or her first tooth. Although a family dentist can often offer the same services as a pediatric dentist; a pediatric dentist is a specialist when it comes to dealing with children’s oral health.

A pediatric dentist knows the signs of tooth and gum disease before they develop, and can implement a prevention plan before the problem arises or gets out of hand. In fact, a pediatric dentist has put in two extra years of training that goes beyond general dentistry. This is why parents should always choose a pediatric dentist over a family dentist for their children, especially when their child is young or experiencing problems.

General Dentist Care for Concerned Parents

Some parents have many questions when their child’s first tooth appears.

One of the questions most parents ask is, “At what age should my child go to the dentist for a first-time check-up?”

• This is not a difficult question to answer. Teeth are like any other part of the body, which needs attention. However, children should be at least a year old.

Another important question parents ask is, “When should we begin using toothpaste?”

• Using toothpaste should begin sooner rather than later. Depending on the age of the child, parents can use a cloth washcloth and plain water to remove plague, or a soft bristle infant toothbrush, with a smear of toothpaste.

The average Kids' Dentist will provide oral care for children up to age 21-years-old. The pediatric dentist treats infants, children, adolescents, teens, children with special needs, as well as adult children. The extensive training a pediatric dentist goes through includes specialized training in orthodontics and oral surgery. We talk about gum disease and prevention, and how simple illnesses and diseases can cause tooth decay, and related health problems.