Children’s Dentistry in Grand Rapids

Children usually start teething around 6 months old. It’s recommended to take them to the dentist by their first birthday or within 6 months of their first tooth appearing. If you suspect any issues or notice your child in discomfort, schedule an appointment right away. It’s always a good time for a child’s first dental check-up, regardless of age.

Primary teeth play a crucial role beyond simply holding space for future adult teeth. They significantly impact your child’s facial development, smile, and confidence. Healthy baby teeth encourage children to smile more often and maintain those positive habits. On the other hand, even mild, normalized dental pain can negatively affect a child’s eating habits, including how they chew, their food preferences, and their overall appetite.

The duration of your child’s first dental appointment can vary based on their specific needs and level of cooperation during the exam. Generally, you can expect the appointment to last around one hour.

Just like adults, your toddler, child, or teen should have regular dental checkups. We suggest coming in for a cleaning and exam every six months to keep those smiles healthy and bright. However, if you notice your child rubbing their jaw, avoiding certain foods, or complaining of tooth or jaw pain, don’t wait—schedule an appointment right away. Keeping up with regular visits helps catch potential issues early and ensures your child’s dental health stays on track.

Cavities develop when bacteria and dental plaque create holes in the teeth, which gradually enlarge over time. These holes might not always cause pain or sensitivity, but it’s essential to treat them early to prevent serious issues or infections, even in baby teeth. Consuming sugary or acidic foods and drinks can accelerate cavity formation. Additionally, some people are naturally more prone to developing cavities than others.

Your mouth is a complex system that includes gums, tongue, cheeks, glands, ligaments, joints, bones, and more, not just your teeth. When one part of this system is unhealthy, it can impact your entire oral health. Early signs of trouble, such as swollen, itchy, sore, or bleeding gums, can indicate more severe underlying problems, emphasizing the importance of good gum health.

Absolutely! We get how busy family life can be. We can schedule appointments for everyone at the same time. Just give us a call, and we’ll happily sort it out for you.