A Look at the Critical Ages Your Child Should See a Dentist Who Accepts Medicaid

As your children grow, you will make sure they see their pediatrician regularly so that their health, growth, and development can be monitored and any necessary treatments prescribed. The same goes for your child’s teeth. As early as 1, your child should begin seeing their local Little Elm, Texas dentist. If you are seeking a dentist who accepts Medicaid, please reach out to Dr. Vidya Suri and the team at Frisco Elm Dental. 

When Do Your Babies Go to the Dentist? 

When it is time for your child’s first dental appointment, you will suddenly find that it is an exciting time. For some parents, this time could also be mixed with just a touch of anxiety. You do not need to feel anxious, as your baby’s first dental appointment is straightforward, and you will get to be present with them. But at what age should your child first see a dentist? It is recommended that infants see a dentist when their first teeth break through or at age 1, whichever comes first. While this is the best time to start seeing a dentist, let us look at other landmark ages.

Age 1

When your baby first sees a dentist, it will be around age 1. It could be slightly earlier if their first tooth breaks through before their first birthday. This initial dental visit will allow the following oral health areas to be addressed:

• Early management of oral habits, including thumb and finger sucking
• Teething
• Examination of first teeth
• Education on the link between your baby’s diet and their oral health
• An examination of the development of the jawline and gums
• Parents can learn how to care for their baby’s dental health

This initial visit will be the foundation for your child’s long-term dental health. Bring any questions you may have for your dentist so you can get any information you need.

Age 4

While your child will have dental visits between the ages of 1 and 4, when they hit age 4, the upcoming dental visit can be viewed as a bridge between when their first teeth erupt and when they will get their final molars in. At age 4, your child will be at a critical age when any remaining bad oral habits must be eliminated. Your dentist will help reinforce strategies to accomplish this goal. 

Age 7

By the time your child reaches age 7, their molars will have started to erupt. At this time, you may want to have an orthodontist look at your child’s teeth to properly evaluate their front-to-back and side-to-side teeth relationships to identify any potential dental alignment issues. While braces may not be recommended until your child reaches the age of 9 to 14, issues can be identified as early as 7. 

To schedule an appointment at Frisco Elm Dental, call (214) 705-7100 today!

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Frisco Elm Dental

Dr. Vidya Suri

A graduate from University of California San Francisco School of Dentistry, Dr. Vidya Suri is an established dentist who prioritizes her patients and strives to provide them with the best possible dental care. She brings to the table a wealth of knowledge and skills including her ability to pay close attention to the details to provide her patients with the most optimal outcomes that exceed their expectations.

Dr. Suri treats patients of all ages. In order to ensure that she is doing her best, she regularly participates in continuing education courses to stay abreast of new practices, technology, and advancements in the industry. Dr. Suri is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association.