Pediatric Exams and Cleaning

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

According to The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, parents should bring their child to the dentist when their first tooth appears. If you do not bring your child at that time then they should be brought no later than their first birthday.

Benefits of visiting a pediatric dentist early

There are many benefits to bringing your child to the dentist early:

• Teaching your child how they can properly clean their teeth and how you can help them with their dental care
• Understanding the link between their diet and oral health
• Talking about thumb sucking and teething
• Examining your child’s bite
• Checking your child’s bite, gums, and cheeks
• Learning more about your child’s oral development
• Setting a schedule for future appointments

Are my child’s primary teeth important?

Primary teeth, or your child’s first set of teeth, may not seem as important as the permanent teeth that will eventually grow in. However, it is important to keep those primary teeth healthy and in place until they’re naturally lost. These teeth are important because they:

• Help with proper chewing and nutrition
• Save a space for permanent teeth
• Assist in speech development
• Promote a healthy smile

Avoiding primary teeth cavities

You can help your child avoid cavities by making sure they:

• Avoid food with a lot of sugar
• Brush twice a day and floss daily
• Use a fluoride toothpaste
• Take a fluoride supplement to avoid cavities (if recommended by your dentist)