How Often Do Kids Need to See a Dentist?

It’s recommended that adults see their dentist at least twice a year for dental cleanings and checkups. But what about kids? Do they really need to go to their pediatric dentist in Long Island every six months? The short answer is yes, but let’s dive deeper into why these bi-annual checkups are important — especially for kids. 

First Birthday, First Visit

First thing’s first, it’s important to get your child to a pediatric dentist in Long Island by the time her first tooth comes in and ideally no later than her first birthday. Getting your baby used to the dentist is crucial to setting her up for a lifetime of dental health. Don’t worry, we make dental visits fun from the very first time we meet you and your child. 

Twice a Year Keeps Teeth Clear

After your child’s first visit, you should begin a regular schedule of having dental checkups every six months or twice a year. However, according to a study conducted by the American Dental Association, 36% of parents didn’t know that kids should be seen by a dentist twice a year. These visits are so important to keeping your child’s teeth developing properly and catching any problems early before they have a chance to turn into something more serious. 

Two Days a Year Keeps the Doctor Away 

Seeing your pediatric dentist in Long Island two days a year helps protect your child’s tiny teeth by finding potential problems early when treatment is often easier and more successful. Preventive dental checkups can make sure that: 

• Teeth are erupting properly 
• There are no alignment concerns
• Teeth are protected from cavities 
• Your child is comfortable with the dentist early on in life

Baby Teeth Are Important

Now, many times we tend to take baby teeth for granted. After all, they’re just going to fall out so why do we really need to take good care of them? The truth is, baby teeth serve several important purposes in development and overall health now and later in life because they: 

• Hold space for the permanent adult teeth — Without baby teeth sticking around for as long as they’re supposed to, adult teeth can drift and cause overcrowding or crookedness. 
• Help with chewing — Baby teeth develop as your child grows into eating more whole foods, and this isn’t an accident. Baby teeth help your child chew which can allow her to eat a well-balanced diet. 
• Develop proper speech — Our teeth are an important part of how we talk, and children need teeth as they learn to speak. Without them, children can develop speech problems. 

If it’s been longer than six months since your little one has seen the dentist, or if she’s ready to have her very first dental checkup, we welcome you to call our pediatric dental office in Long Island to schedule an appointment with us. We’re always happy to meet new kiddos in our welcoming and fun environment! 

About The Author

Dr. Glen Ehrenman

In April this year, Dr. Glen Ehrenman received a Lifetime Diplomate status and an award from the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD), where he has been a diplomate since 1995. Since 2010, he has been a clinical assistant professor and mentor at the State University of New York Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine. He has memberships with dental organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, New York State Dental Association, and the Nassau County Dental Society. His commitment to excellence earned him the Top DDS of 2012 award from Long Island Pulse Magazine.

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