A Pediatric Dentist in Franklin MA can monitor dental development for children, instruct them on healthy oral hygiene habits, and provide treatments that will improve overall dental health. The most common time parents select a pediatric dentist is after the first tooth has broken through the gums. Some do take children in sooner, especially if they have concerns or questions over teething. New parents may also need suggestions and education on how to care for new teeth. Children should begin to see a dentist no later than the age of three. At that age of development, all twenty baby teeth have appeared. They are smaller and whiter than permanent teeth, help with the development of speech, and allow children to eat solid food.
Fluoride treatments can begin in children when the first tooth has erupted. A healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D will also increase the amount of fluoride a child gets. Most children do not enough fluoride in water and toothpaste, so treatments can make a big difference in avoiding tooth decay. A Pediatric Dentist in Franklin MA will be able to advise parents regarding fluoride treatments. At the age of four years old, the facial structure and the jaw bone start to move, and spaces will appear between baby teeth. This process is a normal stage of growth and allows room for the bigger permanent teeth. The dentist will examine the mouth, bone structure, and teeth, and monitor that stage of development. If there are any spacing issues or problems with gums, the dentist can take action quickly to ensure permanent teeth are able to erupt with no difficulty.
Another service offered by pediatric dentists is sealing back permanent teeth as soon as they appear, usually around the age of six. A tooth colored sealant is applied to the back teeth and provides a barrier in grooves and indentations on the chewing surface of those teeth to prevent cavities. Sealants are no0t a substitute for brushing and flossing but adds protection to hard to reach back teeth. Sealants can be initially applied from the age of six, and last for ten years. Parents can Visit the website for full information regarding pediatric dental services, view helpful links about dental development, and to make an appointment for their children.