4 to 6 Years Old
4 to 6 Years Old
At Cali Kids Dental, we make use of digital dental x-rays. This enables us to identify any cavities between teeth and start evaluating the growth and development of permanent teeth. Between the ages of 4 and 6, most children eagerly anticipate their visits to our office. They’re excited to learn about their brushing score and receive the special prize we offer to all our young patients.
Below are some questions that are frequently asked during a young child's dental visit:
Should I be flossing my child’s teeth?
Absolutely! Dental floss is an incredibly cost-effective way to safeguard against cavities. When teeth are in close proximity, which is typical for most baby molars starting around 3 years of age, flossing becomes particularly important. By age 3, most children will have all 20 baby teeth, and their molars will be tightly packed, necessitating daily flossing.
A convenient method for flossing your child’s teeth is to use a pre-made flosser. Gently slide the floss back and forth until you can reach around each tooth and the gums. Flossing the upper molars can be a bit challenging, so incorporating it into the bedtime routine when they are lying down can be effective for many parents.
How should I prepare my child for dental visits?
The most beneficial thing you can do for your child is to reassure them about the smoothness of previous dental visits and leave any challenging questions for our dental team. When it comes to dental inquiries, it’s generally better to provide fewer answers at home. Our exceptional team is highly skilled and can explain everything from dental fillings to teeth cleanings in various ways.
Crucially, refrain from using words like “shot” or “hurt,” and avoid recounting any negative dental experiences that you or other family members may have had. If you’re uncertain about how to respond to a question, simply saying, “I don’t know, but the dentist will be very careful and take good care of you” can go a long way in making the experience more comfortable for everyone involved.
When does my child lose their first tooth?
The timing of a child losing their first tooth can vary widely, but on average, most children lose their first tooth around 6 years of age. It’s not uncommon to observe children losing their first tooth anywhere between 5 to 7 years of age, with girls typically experiencing tooth loss before boys.
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The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that parents establish a dental home for their child by the age of 12 months.