The Importance of Children’s Dentistry: When to Start and What to Look For
Ensuring your child has a healthy smile from an early age sets the foundation for lifelong dental health. Many parents wonder when to take their child for their first dental check-up, what to watch for in their child’s oral development, and how to instil good dental habits early. In this guide, we’ll cover key aspects of children’s dentistry, including the benefits of the Child Dental Benefits Scheme (CDBS) in Australia.
When Should Your Child Have Their First Dental Check-Up?
The Australian Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children visit a pediatric dentist by their first birthday or when their first tooth erupts – whichever comes first. Early visits help children get familiar with the dental environment and allow the dentist to monitor their oral development. Regular check-ups from an early age help prevent cavities, identify potential issues, and ensure your child’s teeth are developing correctly.
Why Are Baby Teeth Important?
Some parents assume that because baby teeth eventually fall out, they are not as important. However, baby teeth play a critical role in your child’s oral health. They:
Help with speech development
Allow proper chewing and digestion
Hold space for permanent teeth
Contribute to overall facial development
Neglecting baby teeth can lead to decay, infections, and alignment problems in permanent teeth. That’s why visiting a dentist early, located conveniently near you, is crucial to maintaining your child’s dental health.
Signs to Watch for in Your Child’s Oral Development
As your child grows, it’s essential to be aware of potential dental issues that may require early intervention. Some common concerns include:
Tongue Ties: A tight frenulum (the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth) can impact speech, feeding, and oral development. A pediatric dentist can assess if intervention is needed.
Mouth Breathing: Persistent mouth breathing can lead to dry mouth, increased risk of cavities, and improper jaw development. It may be a sign of airway issues or allergies.
Crowding: Early signs of overcrowded teeth may indicate the need for orthodontic evaluation. Addressing these concerns early can prevent more complex dental problems later. It can also be a sign of an underlying issue in the development of the jaw, and orofacial structures.
Good Habits Start Early
Establishing good oral hygiene habits from a young age is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Here are some tips to help your child develop strong dental habits:
Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears using a soft-bristled toothbrush and age-appropriate fluoridated toothpaste.
Supervise brushing until at least the age of 7 to ensure thorough cleaning.
Encourage a balanced diet with limited sugary snacks and drinks.
Make dental visits fun and positive to reduce anxiety.
The Child Dental Benefits Scheme (CDBS) in Australia
CDBS is a government-funded program that provides up to $1,095 in dental benefits over two consecutive years for eligible children under 17 years of age. It covers basic general dental services such as:
Check-ups
X-rays
Fillings
Extractions
Fissure sealants
If your child is eligible, these services can be accessed at Fairfield Dental House, a trusted dentist in the Fairfield area, with no out-of-pocket costs, unless the limit is exceeded, or a procedure is not covered under the scheme. You can check your child’s eligibility through the MyGov application or by calling either Medicare or our clinic directly.
Book Your Child’s Dental Visit Today!
At Fairfield Dental House, we excel in kid’s dentistry, ensuring your child receives gentle, high-quality care in a comfortable environment. Whether you need a routine check-up or have concerns about your child’s dental development, our experienced team is here to help.