When you become a parent, you experience so many “firsts” alongside your little one. We don’t often remember our first trips to the dentist, but setting the foundation for a lifetime of excellent dental starts earlier than you might think!
We can guide you through when your kids should start seeing the dentist, what to expect at their first appointment, and how to help protect their smiles at home.
When Do Kids Start Going to the Dentist?
One of the most common questions heard from new parents is, “When should I take my child to the dentist?”
The American Academy for Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first dental appointment when their first tooth comes in or by their first birthday – whichever comes first. We recommend scheduling a regular dental check-up every six months.
Establishing a Foundation: Your Child’s First Visit to a Pediatric Dentist
This first visit will help establish your child’s oral health habits and address any concerns.
Your child’s first dental visit will include:
- An assessment of baby teeth
- Development of the gums and jawline
- Oral habits and how to manage them (i.e., finger and thumb sucking)
- How to care for your baby’s new teeth (brushing techniques, etc.)
- Dietary counseling and eating habits
This first visit is the perfect time to ask questions. From how to clean your baby’s teeth to the best teething toys, your child’s pediatric dentist is a helpful resource for you as a new parent.
The Next Stage of Your Child’s Oral Health
The toddler years bring about new milestones for your child’s dental health. Your child may have most of their baby teeth and maybe even a complete set by age four. Continuing regular dental visits from age one is crucial for building confidence and establishing healthy teeth and gums.
At this stage, your child’s dentist will:
- Check for proper alignment
- Assess any signs of cavities or tooth decay
- Create strategies for overcoming harmful oral habits (sucking thumbs, chewing fingers, etc.)
- Reinforce healthy oral hygiene and dental development
How to Protect Your Child’s Teeth at Home
Caring for your baby’s new teeth and gums takes a combined effort between the parents and a pediatric dentist near you.
Here are some tips to help create healthy oral habits at home and protect your child’s dental health:
- Before baby teeth come in, clean gums with a clean, damp cloth
- Once teeth begin erupting, brush with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste
- Limit time with a bottle
- Limit foods that may increase the risk of tooth decay, such as sweetened drinks, fruit snacks, hard or sticky candies, or sugary teething biscuits
Set Your Child Up for a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles with Lone Star Pediatric Dental & Braces
Setting your child up for a life of optimal oral health starts with their first visit to a pediatric dentist near Austin, TX. At Lone Star Pediatric Dental & Braces, we strive to offer more than just dental expertise and guidance – we want to create an experience that nurtures and cares for the well-being of our patients.
Our qualified team of dental professionals ensures we stay current on the latest advancements in dental care and work to provide comfort and compassion to our patients and their families.
Take the first step in your child’s dental care by scheduling a visit with us today!
