There are many benefits of taking your child to the dentist early. The American Dental Association recommends taking your child to the dentist as soon as the first tooth erupts or at twelve months old, whichever comes first.

Advantages of visiting a pediatric dentist early

A pediatric dentist will give you information about:

• Baby bottle tooth decay
• Infant feeding practices
• Mouth cleaning
• Teething
• Pacifier habits
• Finger-sucking habits

According to research, 21% of American children between ages 2 and 5 have cavities. Visiting the dentist as soon as the first tooth erupts ensures that your child’s risk of getting cavities is lowered significantly.

Visiting the dentist also provides an opportunity to learn about the factors that may affect your baby’s oral health. As a parent, you are your baby’s first doctor. Being well informed is the best thing you can do for your baby. You can ask the dentist questions and mention habits that your baby has. If the habits are harmful to their oral health, your dentist will work with you in helping your baby quit those habits.

What to expect with a first visit

Prepare your child

Babies are usually more alert in the morning. That’s the best time to visit the dentist. If your child is a little older and can communicate, inform them of the dental appointment and try to make it interesting.

Prepare the dentist

Give the dentist a complete health history of your baby. The dentist will examine your baby’s teeth and gums and check for any abnormalities. 

They’ll advise you about caring for your baby’s oral hygiene at home, including how to brush and floss their teeth.

They’ll teach you about first aid for common dental accidents that happen at home such as biting their tongue.

Your pediatric dentist will also talk about nutrition. They’ll tell you about foods that increase the risk of cavities.

We provide dental checkups for babies and children. Call us today to schedule your baby’s first dental visit.