As a parent, it can seem like you’re constantly looking up things to figure out what’s best for your child. From bathroom products to clothing brands to foods, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when trying to gather as much information as possible so you can keep your kid healthy and happy. At Gary Johnson DDS Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we proudly provide gentle dental care for kids; and because we want to make things a little easier for parents, today we’re answering some of the most common questions we get about children’s dental care. You may just find the question you’ve been thinking about here!

When Should I First Bring My Child to the Dentist?

Taking your child to the dentist for the first time is a big step, and luckily, it’s also easy to remember. Just keep in mind the rule of one: your kid’s first dental appointment should be either when their first tooth comes in or by the time they have their first birthday.

How Often Should My Child Be Seen By a Dentist?

Unless your child’s dentist says otherwise, you should bring your kid to a dental office just as often as you should be going: every six months. Even if there doesn’t seem to be anything wrong with your child’s smile, it’s a good way to make sure things stay that way by maintaining their oral health.

How Important Are Baby Teeth Since They Just Fall Out?

Although baby teeth aren’t here to stay, that doesn’t mean you should forget about them! Baby teeth can still get cavities, which means they can still negatively affect your child’s health. On top of that, they help your child develop normal speech patterns and engage in healthy eating, as well as serve as placeholders for permanent teeth. You want to make sure they don’t fall out early due to decay and result in your kid’s permanent teeth coming in crooked.

What’s the Difference Between a Dental Sealant & a Filling?

Dental sealants and tooth fillings are two of the most common procedures used with kids, but they’re not interchangeable. A sealant is a thin coating we apply to the surface of a tooth to prevent bacteria and debris from getting stuck in there and forming a cavity. A filling, on the other hand, is what we use when there is already a cavity present. Essentially, we remove the cavity and then fill that hole with a dental filling for structure and support. The first is a preventive measure and the second is a restorative treatment!

More Questions? We Have Answers!

Don’t see your question here? Don’t worry! Just contact our Chico dental practice and one of our team members would be happy to answer your questions. And when you’re ready to book an appointment for your child, we’ll be here for you, too. Contact our friendly team today!