I work as a clerical assistant in a pediatric dental office, and I am commonly surprised by the number of children who are scared of the dentist. Many kids think that cleanings will be painful, and they believe they will be scolded for eating sugary foods. Children are also extremely frightful of the noises made by the water spraying tools and the suction devices. As adults, we know that dental cleanings are easy and free of pain. We need to impart this knowledge to our children so they know not to fear the dentist. I have provided blogs that will help you speak with your child about dental care. Good communication, trips to your own dentist, and online videos can assist you. So will good brushing techniques that will make your child proud to see the dentist. Enjoy my articles so you can help your child build oral care confidence.
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Teaching Your Children About the Dentist
A Guide To Preparing Your Child For The Growth Of Permanent Teeth
Alfred Kelley
There's a lot to be excited about when raising a child. From the baby's first steps to their first spoken words, parents look forward to these milestones. However, the growth of permanent teeth often confuses the parent and child. Some parents remove their children's primary teeth too early, while others let them grow on top of each other.
Primary teeth start showing at about 6 months. These teeth are softer, more delicate, and only serve a temporary role. When your child is about 6 years old, their permanent teeth will start to sprout. Managing the transition from primary to permanent teeth will ensure the long-term oral health of your child.
When Do Permanent Teeth Start Showing?
In general, permanent teeth start sprouting after your child reaches their sixth birthday. However, different teeth will emerge at varying times. The upper incisors are typically the first to appear, which is why you may see kids with incisors that overlap.
The primary incisor teeth don't fall out until the child is between 6-7 years old. Because this tooth is critical to biting and cutting food in the mouth, you should prepare your child for the emergence of their permanent incisors.
Permanent molars take a bit longer to grow. Some children may notice them as late as their 9th or 10th birthday. However, the primary molars also take a bit longer to shed from the mouth. Parents should ensure that both primary and permanent molars aren't growing on top of each other. Because children rely on their molars for chewing, any discomfort in this part of the mouth can be quite painful for your child.
How to Manage Primary Teeth Fallout
Before permanent teeth start growing in your child's mouth, consider preparing for the shedding of their primary teeth. Check your child's mouth for any loose incisors, molars, and premolars as they approach their sixth birthday.
A shedding primary tooth will typically turn brittle and loosen from the gum lining. You may also notice the early signs of a sprouting permanent tooth inside the gum cavity. This is an excellent time to take your child for a dental checkup at your family dentist.
Rather than remove the primary teeth yourself, your family dentist will carefully map how permanent teeth are erupting. Primary teeth act as placeholders for permanent teeth. They also prevent overbite, misalignment, and speech complications.
As part of this process, parents should pay close attention to any decaying primary teeth. Such decay may spread into the gumline and affect your child's oral health.
To learn more, contact a family dentist.
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