Family Dentistry: What Changes at Every Age?

Dr Bernard answers some of the common dental questions parents have, starting with when a child should first see a dentist. He recommends bringing children to the clinic before the age of two, even if they only have a few teeth. Early visits help children get familiar with the dentist and the clinic, so it feels less unfamiliar when they eventually need a proper dental check-up.

Another common question parents ask is whether cavities in baby teeth really matter since these teeth will eventually fall out. Dr Bernard explains that they do. Baby teeth can develop cavities more quickly than adult teeth, and untreated problems can affect a child’s comfort and oral health. Regular dental visits, usually every six months, allow the dentist to monitor their teeth and development as they grow.

For teenagers, the focus shifts as they go through the mixed dentition stage, when they have both baby and adult teeth. This is also a time when habits such as drinking soda and boba tea can become more common, so maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups is important.

Dental care remains important as we get older too. For adults and grandparents, years of wear and tear and previous dental treatments mean that regular maintenance and check-ups continue to play an important role in keeping their teeth and gums healthy.