Schedule your child’s first dental visit to the Frederick Center for Dentistry just after their third birthday. We will gently examine your child’s teeth and gums and may take x-rays to check on the progress of your child’s permanent teeth. During this visit, we may clean your child’s teeth and apply topical fluoride to protect the teeth against decay. Finally, we will review with you how to clean and care for your child’s teeth.
Dr. Sahil Goyal is a Frederick dentist that is passionate about helping young patients maintain their oral health. He offers general dentistry solutions to enhance the appearance and health of teeth and gums.
First Visit Tips
Before your child’s first visit, you can take your child for a preview of the office. Read books with them about going to the dentist, and speak positively about your own dental experiences. Review with them what the dentist will be doing at the time of the first visit. Ensuring your child’s comfort with visiting the dentist will help them establish healthy oral health habits.
During your child’s first visit, we will:
- Examine the mouth, teeth, and gums
- Evaluate adverse habits like thumb sucking
- Teach you about cleaning your child’s teeth and gums
- Help you schedule regular dental visits
Your Child’s Preventative Care
In our Frederick dental office, we are experts in all aspects of preventive care. We use the latest in dental sealant technology to protect your child’s teeth. The dentist will bond dental sealants to the chewing surfaces of back molars, which are the most prone to tooth decay.
Children get cavities because of a lack of oral hygiene or a diet high in sugar. Limiting sugar intake and brushing regularly can help. The longer it takes your child to chew food and the longer it stays on their teeth, the greater the chances of getting cavities.
To prevent cavities:
- Choose nutritious snacks
- Limit the frequency of meals and snacks
- Encourage brushing, flossing, and rinsing
- Avoid giving your child sticky foods
Preventing Dental Anxiety
A fear of the dentist impacts people of all ages. Sometimes it’s just the drill or certain dental tools, while other patients aren’t even able to come into the dental office.
When your child adjusts to the dental environment at an early age, they’re more likely to avoid dental fear and anxiety. Patients with dental anxiety are more likely to avoid the dentist completely. Avoiding the dentist causes more serious issues that need more invasive and expensive care.
Taking your children to the dentist helps them establish a regular routine that emphasizes oral health as a priority. We make scheduling family-friendly so that you can do your appointments on the same visit as your children. If they’re nervous throughout their appointment, you can sit and reassure them that everything is okay. They can also watch you during your appointment so they know that it’s nothing to be afraid of.
Baby Teeth
The first baby teeth that come into the mouth are the two bottom front teeth around 6 to 8 months. Next, the 4 upper front teeth and the remainder of your baby’s teeth will appear periodically. At around 2 1/2 years old, your child should have all 20 teeth.
Lastly, between the ages of 5 and 6, your child’s first permanent teeth will begin to erupt. Most children have a full set of baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, by the time they are 3 years old. When they reach 5 or 6, these teeth will begin to fall out, making way for permanent teeth.
As with all teeth, baby teeth can be prone to cavities. Saving your child’s teeth by addressing these cavities prevents speech issues, late development, and eating issues. We offer sealants to prevent infection and premature removal of the tooth.
Pediatric Dentistry FAQs
Here are some common questions regarding dentistry for children. Please contact our office if you additional questions or concerns about our pediatric dental care.
Why is child dental care important?
The earlier children start obtaining regular dental exams, the healthier their mouths will be for the rest of their lives. Early examinations aid in preventing cavities and dental decay. These issues can cause discomfort, difficulty concentrating, and other medical issues as children get older.
How many teeth do children have?
By the time they turn three years old, most children have their full set of 20 primary teeth. Primary teeth begin to fall out at the age of 6 or 7, and the permanent teeth begin to erupt. An average adult has 32 permanent teeth by the time they are about 21 years old. 16 of which are in the upper jaw and 16 in the lower jaw.
Which teeth do children lose first?
The two bottom front teeth (lower central incisors) and the two top front teeth (upper central incisors) are normally the first infant teeth to fall out. Then the first molars, canines, and second molars.
What age do children generally get braces?
In general, children between the ages of 9 and 14 should think about getting braces. The best age for treatment typically occurs before kids reach puberty.
What’s the most common dental problem for children?
Tooth decay is the most common issue that children face. Their diets tend to be higher in sugar and they’re not as adept at brushing and flossing correctly. We do our best to ensure that your children don’t face tooth decay. With both patient education and preventative care, we focus on ensuring the health of your children’s teeth.
How can I prepare my child for the dentist?
The biggest thing is to stay positive and ensure that you don’t share any anxiety with your child. Kids can pick up on our moods, and though you may be nervous, there’s nothing to be afraid of. Read books or watch videos about visiting the dentist with them so they know what to expect. When you’re coming to the office, bring favorite toys or stuffed animals to help your child feel safe and relaxed.
Call 301-264-5680 to schedule your child’s first dental visit to our office. You may also request a dental exam for you or your child with Dr. Goyal using our online form anytime.