The teething has started and a little mountain of white has begun to erupt through your little one’s gums. Congratulations — your baby’s first tooth has come out to play!
But as their mouth begins to develop, so too will you need to develop different hygiene habits for oral health.
In other words, the dentist is going to enter the picture, too. But… how soon?
The Timing of Tooth Care
If there are only one two two teeth that have grown in, there’s probably no need to visit the pediatric dentist, right?
Well, not quite.
Actually, “your child’s first dental visit should take place after that first tooth appears, but no later than the first birthday,” according to the American Dental Association (ADA). “Why so early? As soon as your baby has teeth, he or she can get cavities.”
Most preferably, your child will first visit the dentist within the first six months that follow their first tooth. Either way, we encourage you to remain diligent in gently wiping down their gums and mindful in terms of their sugar consumption.
Expectations for the First Experience
The first dental exam is all about familiarity. Specifically, the goal is to orient them with their dentist, introduce them to the dental setting, and start laying the groundwork for their hygiene.
“Their first visit is not just the exam, cleaning and fluoride application,” Cleveland Clinic explains. “It’s also a chance for the pediatric dentist to go over what needs to be done to prevent cavities, like brushing properly and using the right toothpaste.”
Additionally, don’t forget the role you play in forming your child’s expectations of the experience.
“If you have dental anxieties, be careful not to relate those fears or dislikes to your child,” as recommended by Stanford Medicine. “Parents need to give moral support by staying calm while in the dental exam room. Children can pick up parents’ anxieties and become anxious themselves.”
Exceptional Health Starts Early
No matter how old your child is, they deserve only the best dental care possible. That’s why, here at Setzer, Cochran, Soares, and Hubbard Pediatric Dentistry, we feature a team of award-winning, board-certified pediatric dentists who specialize in little teeth!
With decades of combined experience, you can trust we will provide your family with successful dental experience possible.
Ready to learn more or schedule your appointment? Reach out to our team today and we’ll have you smiling in no time!