When should I take my child to the dentist for the first time?

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child should see a pediatric dentist when the first tooth appears, or no later than his/her first birthday.  Dental decay is the most prevalent childhood disease in the United States and the single largest contributing factor for school nurse visits each year.  Pediatric Dentist are trained to provide parents with anticipatory guidance in matters of infant oral health which in turn has proven to dramatically reduce the incidence of early childhood dental disease.

Why are dental sealants used in children?

Sealants protect the grooved and pitted surfaces of the teeth, especially the chewing surfaces of back teeth where most cavities in children are found. Made of clear or shaded plastic, sealants are applied and bonded to teeth to help keep them cavity-free. Research has proven that sealants reduce the chances of dental decay on the chewing surfaces of permanent teeth by 80%.

By Jeffrey D. Holt, DDS, MS

Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry