Your child and cavities, from Pearland Pediatric Dentistry

We read a fascinating article on cavities recently in USAToday. In the article, the president of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry said that one-third of children in the U.S. have cavities—that's right, multiple—by age three to five. That's why—under a new Massachusetts law—kids in day care there are now required to brush their teeth or have them brushed by a staffer. The article also points out that cavities are much more prevalent among young children today than they were a decade ago.

Cavities, of course, can lead to severe tooth pain, eating problems, tooth loss and bad smiles, and that's why the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry says it's vital for children to visit a dentist by their first birthday. Has your child visited Pearland Pediatric Dentistry yet? If your little one is one nearing his or her first birthday, it's time to schedule an appointment with Drs. Clark or Reddy.

Happy Thursday!

Ask Drs. Clark and Reddy: When should my child come in for a check-up?

At Pearland Pediatric Dentistry, we think a child's first visit to the dentist should be enjoyable and positive. The more you and your child know about the first visit, the better you will feel. Children are not born with a fear of the dentist, but they can fear the unknown. At Pearland Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Pamela Clark and Dr. Suha Reddy and our dedicated team make a practice of using pleasant, non-frightening, simple words to describe your child's first dental visit and treatment. We want you and your child to feel at ease from the moment you walk through the door.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, or AAPD, children should visit the dentist by their first birthday. It is important that your child's newly-erupted teeth (erupting at 6-12 months of age) receive proper dental care and benefit from proper oral hygiene habits right from the beginning. Your child's first tooth erupts between ages 6-12 months and the remainder of their 20 primary or "baby" teeth typically erupt by age three.

If you have any questions about pediatric dentistry, or about your treatment at Pearland Pediatric Dentistry, please give us a call!