When should I schedule my child’s first dental exam?

Your child’s teeth will begin to emerge around six months of age. While they may not have all of their teeth at twelve months of age, this is the ideal time for their first dental exam with a pediatric dentist. Many parents mistakenly believe that as long as their child sees a dentist before starting school, this is soon enough; however, there are multiple reasons to have your child seen much sooner.

Reasons for a Dental Exam at Twelve Months

Your pediatric dentist can quickly spot if there are any problems and can make you aware of what to watch for. This is also a perfect educational opportunity for parents to learn the best ways to provide their child with the optimum care for healthy teeth and gums to last a lifetime.

If you consistently take your child to visit the dentist, they will become comfortable with the sights, sounds, and smells of the dental office alleviating fears with each appointment. If you wait until a problem occurs, your child could be traumatized with the experience making subsequent visits very difficult.

Things You Can Do To Promote Excellent Dental Health for Your Child 

Always clean their teeth – Start with a soft cloth for your infant graduating to the age appropriate toothbrush and paste when your child is able to sit up. Never use a fluoridated toothpaste until your child has mastered being able to spit out the paste.

Supervise – As your child grows, don’t assume they’re brushing and doing it effectively. Be present to supervise and make sure that your child is brushing for two minutes twice a day.

Diet – Children don’t miss what they don’t know. If they aren’t given sweets regularly, they won’t learn to expect them. Provide a healthy daily diet of vegetables, fruits, dairy, proteins, and healthy grains.

Water is optimum – Don’t indulge your child with juice, chocolate milk, flavored drinks, or soda. Encourage children to drink water – save the others for the occasional treat.

You and your pediatric dentist are given the task of making sure your child can grow with healthy teeth and gums. The reward will certainly justify the effort. For more information or to schedule a visit, contact The Smiley Tooth Pediatric Dental Specialists today.