The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) all recommend that a child see a dentist within six months of the first tooth erupting, or no later than their first birthday. A pediatric dentist is a dental specialist that is specially trained to treat children even at such an early age.
A young child’s initial appointment introduces your child to the dental office and helps get them used to regular dental visits. Very young children will often be examined in the lap of the parent or with the parent next to them in the dental chair. These appointments will give parents the knowledge and tools to keep their child’s teeth clean.
What happens at a new-patient exam?
A new patient exam includes a review of your child’s medical history; an examination of his or her mouth; and a review of your child’s daily dietary and oral hygiene routines, as well as any other dental topics relating to their optimal health.
What if my child is older?
Pediatric dentists are specially trained to examine and treat children of all ages. It is never too late to schedule your child’s first dental exam. An older child’s first exam may also include a dental cleaning and x-rays to monitor the development of a child’s mouth and to check for decay.
Why a pediatric dentist?
Not only is the pediatric dentist specially trained to treat children from ages 0-18, but the pediatric dental office itself is designed to meet your child’s needs in a fun and age-appropriate way.
Whether your child is an infant with just one tooth, or a teen with a mouthful of permanent teeth, regular check-ups with a pediatric dentist can help them on the path to a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Dr. Layne Benzley earned his DDS degree at The University of Iowa, and then completed his specialty training in pediatric dentistry at The University of Rochester. Dr Benzley and his wife have three children of their own and he is currently a practicing pediatric dentist at Castle Rock Smiles Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Benzley is participating in Give Kids a Smile Day to provide dental attention to families without dental insurance.
Castle Rock Smiles Pediatric Dentistry
753 Maleta Lane, Suite 104
Castle Rock, CO
(303) 660-5373
www.CRSmilesDentistry.com
Editor's Note from Kyrie: Dr. Benzley is my children's pediatric dentist and they LOVE him. Seriously. Because visits only take place every six months, they periodically ask me "Mom, isn't it time to go see our dentist yet?" You gotta love it when your kids are ASKING to go to the dentist!
