Did you know that about 42% of children aged 2 to 11 have cavities on their primary teeth? This is just one of the many reasons you should take your kids to a pediatric dentist in Elizabethtown. Early dental care ensures your kids have strong, healthy teeth and sets the pace for proper dental health in their adulthood.
Unfortunately, most parents don’t quite understand the inherent importance and dangers of not taking their kids to the dentist early enough. Other parents just don’t know when to see a pediatric dentist for their kids’ dental and oral health. Neither group is on the right path to protecting their children’s dental health.
Today, we’ll be looking at a few telltale signs that it’s time to take your kids to a pediatric dentist.
1. When They’re in Pain
Although they have tiny teeth, kids still feel the same pain you feel when you have a toothache. Everyone knows how excruciating a toothache can be. So when your child’s tooth hurts, don’t buy painkillers; take them to a dentist instead.
A pediatric dentist will determine the source of the pain and take care of it. These dentists understand how to talk to kids to get them to tell the source and extent of the pain. They also provide a permanent solution to a toothache.
Remember, pain could indicate a much worse problem that could tail your kids to their adulthood. Toothaches can either indicate tooth decay or a chipped tooth. Regardless of the cause, it’s best to take your child to a pediatric dentist ASAP.
2. Your Child Has Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums are not a pretty sight for both children and adults. If your kid has bleeding gums, schedule a pediatric dental appointment as soon as you can. Swollen and bleeding gums in your kids should be a legitimate cause of concern.
Bleeding and swollen gums are signs of bacterial infection. It’s best to call a pediatric dentist in Elizabethtown to help address the issue before it’s too late. Your child could be suffering from gingivitis.
3. White or Brownish Spots on Your Child’s Teeth
Talk a close look at your kid’s teeth and check for any white or brownish spots. These spots are among the early signs of dental caries. These spots won’t disappear on their own, no matter how hard you brush the kids’ teeth.
If you notice any spots and discoloration on your kid’s teeth, it’s important to take them to a pediatric dentist in Elizabethtown. The earlier you do it, the better. The dentist will examine your kid’s teeth and take measures to protect them from cavities.
4. Your Kid’s Teeth Are Loose
Wiggly teeth are perfectly normal for kids; it means that the primary teeth are coming off for permanent ones to grow. However, wiggly permanent teeth indicate a dental problem.
Loose permanent teeth could indicate numerous dental health concerns. If your kid has loose adult teeth, take them to a pediatric dentist in Elizabethtown to address the issue. They can arrange for painless tooth removal and replacement.
5. Your Kid’s Teeth Are Overly Sensitive to Heat and Cold
Do your kids have trouble eating or drinking because their teeth are too sensitive to cold or heat? Tooth sensitivity is nothing to be ignored, because it may indicate a cavity.
It’s easy for adults to overlook tooth sensitivity because the right toothpaste takes care of it. However, for kids, it could indicate a serious dental problem. To be on the safe side, arrange a dental appointment and make things right.
6. Your Kid Has Never Seen a Dentist
It’s important for you to take your child to the dentist when their first tooth comes in. That’s right; don’t take your child to the dentist only when they have a dental problem. An early dentist visit helps catch dental conditions early and ensures your child has a beautiful smile for life.
If your child has never been to a dentist’s office, it’s time to book an appointment now. Protect your child’s dental health before it’s too late.
7. Your Child Has Bad Breath
Your precious kids have the potential of having horrendous breath if they don’t adopt proper dental habits. It’s perfectly normal for adults to have bad breath with all the caffeinated drinks and different foods we eat. However, bad breath for kids is abnormal and completely unacceptable.
If your child’s breath leans towards the putrid side, you should consider arranging a pediatric visit. Bad breath is an indicator of other underlying issues with your child’s teeth. Save your child the embarrassment by calling a reputable pediatric dentist today.
How to Pick the Right Pediatric Dentist in Elizabethtown
There’s no shortage of pediatric dentists in Elizabethtown. With so many to choose from, picking the right one can be a daunting task. Here are a few tips to help you find the right pediatric dentist for your needs:
- Do some research by checking out reviews and testimonials
- Check the dentist’s certification and experience
- Schedule an in-person consultation with the dentist
- Make sure the environment is warm and friendly for your kid’s comfort
- Ask for referrals from previous patients
Before looking for a pediatric dentist, it’s essential to understand the difference between a pediatric and a family dentist. If you keep the above tips at heart, you should find the right pediatric dentist without breaking a sweat.
Your Child’s Dental Health Is in Your Hands
Now that you know when to take your child to a dentist, going to the Elizabethtown pediatric dentist should be a priority. Remember, it could be what determines your child’s current and future dental condition. Don’t forget to do your homework before finding a pediatric dentist for your child.
Thankfully, the best pediatric dentist in Elizabethtown is only a phone call away. Contact us today for professional and exquisite pediatric dental services.