Developing mentally and physically, kids eventually outgrow certain childish things, especially clothing and toys. At some point, usually by the time they become teens, they feel too grown up for a nursery-themed bedroom, their favorite stuffy to snuggle at night, or their parents’ frequent hugs and kisses. As they get closer to adulthood, you may wonder if your teenager is too old to visit a pediatric dentist, but here are some important reasons why they still need to go to this specialist until they turn 18.
Reason #1: Your Teen Is Still a Growing Kid.
Your teen will likely argue the contrary, but they are not a fully developed adult yet! Even if they happen to be an early bloomer, they still have growth ahead of them in terms of their jawbone and oral cavity. They may be ready to drive and take on other responsibilities, but their mouth could still need a pediatric dentist’s close attention to expertly handle their needs.
Your teen may not necessarily get excited about visiting child-friendly décor in your pediatric dentist’s office, but there’s no huge rush for them to leave childhood behind completely, right?
Reason #2: Pediatric Dentists Have Special Training for This Age Group.
A pediatric dentist focuses on the entire oral development process up until the age of 18, which means they have received more specific training about what your teen needs than a general dentist. For example, a pediatric dentist can recognize and keep a wary eye out for early indications of issues like orthodontic shifting, wisdom teeth development, and more. They can alert you of these problems before they cause pain or damage for your teen, keeping your child’s smile healthy, happy, and strong as they enter adulthood.
Reason #3: Pediatric Dentists Can Make Dental Care Fun.
Unfortunately, many adults avoid going to the dentist for various reasons, but if your child can have a trusting relationship and fun with their pediatric dentist, they will be more likely to continue seeing the dentist into their adult years. Regular cleanings and checkups are essential for long-term oral health, which in turn affects overall systemic health. For example, those who keep their natural teeth into their 60s and 70s tend to live longer and have a lower risk of heart disease, dementia, kidney disease, and even certain kinds of cancer. Establishing the habit of biannual dental visits at this early stage could help them have a longer and better quality of life.
Your teen may become too mature for tiny, adorable clothes and shoes, but until they turn 18, a pediatric dentist is the best provider for their dental health. In the meantime, enjoy having a kid for a little bit longer!
About the Pediatric Practice
As highly trained and board-certified pediatric dentists at Wash Park Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Patrick Bowman and Dr. Kathleen Waguespack understand how to connect with kids of all abilities and backgrounds ranging from infants to teenagers. We strive to create an atmosphere that is welcoming, comfortable, and encouraging. To schedule an appointment for your teen, call our Denver office at 720-647-6310 or visit our Contact Us page here.