As your child gets older, they might start to feel like they are “too old” for certain things, like going to a kids’ dentist. However, visiting a specialist comes with numerous benefits, which is why teenagers should visit a pediatric dentist from their 1st birthday to their 18th birthday! To learn more on the topic, read on.
1. Their Jaw Is Still Developing
Your child’s jaw is still developing well into their teenage years. In fact, it usually hasn’t fully developed until the early or mid-20s. Since pediatric dentists have extensive training on how to properly monitor the growth and changes, it’s important that your teen doesn’t switch to a general dentist too soon.
2. Orthodontic Treatment May Be Needed
At your teen’s biannual checkups, their pediatric dentist screens for common oral health problems, like cavities. They also continuously monitor the alignment of their teeth and bite. If overcrowding, spacing issues, or any other orthodontic problems surface, they can let you know right away!
3. The Emergence of Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth don’t typically make an appearance until the late teens, but they begin to develop much sooner. In fact, with X-rays, pediatric dentists can monitor their growth at their routine checkups. If they end up posing a risk to your child’s oral health, they can begin the process of having them removed.
4. Help Prevent Dental-Related Anxiety
Dental-related anxiety is very common among children and adults alike. Something that helps keep stress, nerves, and worry to a minimum is having the same familiar, experienced, and talented team to turn to time and time again (instead of switching dentists every few years).
5. All the Dental Records in One Place
If your child stays with the same pediatric dentist throughout the years, then all of their dental records and information will be safely kept in one place. This prevents you from having to track down information from several practices, saving you time and money in the process.
About the Practice
Our team at Healthy Kids Dentistry is led by an experienced and passionate pediatric dentist, Dr. Garcia. He graduated with his dental doctorate from the Howard University College of Dentistry, and he has continued to keep his skills sharp by maintaining active memberships with professional organizations, like the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. If you would like to schedule an appointment with him for your infant, child, or teen, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (301) 871-8880.