There is no right or wrong age when it comes to visiting the dentist. Patients young and old who are in need of oral care can easily schedule an appointment for their annual checkup to make sure their teeth are healthy. However, some patients who have just started a family are not sure when they should take their little ones in for the first time. Other patients may feel they are too old and no longer need to visit the dentist. At La Jolla Cosmetic Dentistry and Orthodontics, we provide several family orthodontic services to make sure you and your children’s teeth get the proper care they need.
Children
While it is typically recommended that a child visit their dentist for an orthodontic evaluation by the time they turn seven, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) says they should start sooner. According to the AAPD, a child’s first dental visit should happen when their first tooth emerges, or no later than the age of two. Slowly introducing your child to the dentist’s office will not only help them overcome any fears, but it will also help them:
- Get to know their dentist
- Feel safe and build trust
- Realize they can have fun by taking a ride in the chair
- Familiarize themselves with the office environment and staff
- Explore and understand the various dental instruments
Your Child’s First Visit
It is only after your child feels comfortable that Dr. Kohani will be able to take a quick peek inside their mouth. During your child’s first visit, a simple examination will take place to make sure your child’s teeth are growing in correctly, as well as checking for any tooth decay. Dr. Kohani will also examine your child’s gums, jaw, and bite position to make sure there are no signs of frenum issues, bottle caries, or any other oral problems that can affect their teeth or speech patterns.
If you are a new parent looking to take your child to the dentist for the first time, Dr. Kohani will discuss how to maintain good oral hygiene for your child. He will also allow you to ask any questions and voice any concerns you may have.
Teenagers and Adults
Many teenagers and adults do not realize that their teeth need just as much care as those of a child. As an adult, you can develop an overbite, a chipped tooth, or an uneven bite that needs to be addressed right away. For older patients who need orthodontic treatment, Dr. Kohani will examine your teeth and may recommend accelerated adult orthodontics to treat any issues you may be experiencing or to improve the alignment of your teeth.
To learn more about our family orthodontic services or if you wish to speak with a specialist to schedule an appointment, please contact La Jolla Cosmetic Dentistry and Orthodontics at (858) 295-0603.
