No matter how many people parents talk to and consult with, they are still apt to get conflicting or confusing advice on all sorts of topics that pertain to the health and wellbeing of their children. This is especially pertinent when it comes to children’s oral health care. This could explain why tooth decay in children has become so prevalent today.
But when it comes to taking care of an infant’s or young child’s teeth, the guidelines are quite straight forward – and there is no contradiction or mixed messaging amongst dentists. In other words, when it comes to basic dental care and oral health for your children, the following guidelines address the main concerns and confusion shared by many parents.
When is the right time for your child’s first visit to the dentist?
In general, parents are encouraged to take their infants to the dentist for the first time upon becoming one year old or no longer than six months after the baby’s first tooth arrives.
What should parents expect during their child’s first visit to the dentist?
The best part about a child’s first visit to the dentist is that it’s quick and easy; not much stress is induced upon mom or dad and vert little patience is required. Nonetheless, it is very important. This is when your child gets to meet his or her dentist in a relaxed and friendly manner. As the parent, you might be asked to sit in the chair while holding your child as the dentist examines him or her. Or, if your dentist wants to initiate a relationship one on one with your child, you might have to wait in the reception room.
Your child’s dentist will be checking each one of your child’s teeth; he or she will be looking for tooth decay while also examining any bite, gum, oral tissue, or jaw issues. The visit will proceed with a cleaning of any teeth your child has and determine if your child needs fluoride at this time.
Then, your dentist will either bring you into the room – if you were waiting in the reception room – or, if you were in the chair holding your child during the entire exam, he or she will proceed with educating you on the basics of child oral health care and talk to you about any potential issue regarding your child’s specific oral development.
Note: This is the time for you to ask any and every question you may have. The purpose of this first visit is not only to assess the status of your child’s current oral health but also to help you achieve and sustain the best possible oral health in your child.
Here are the types of issues and guidance your dentist may address during this first visit:
- Best practices for your child’s ultimate oral health and hygiene
- Teething
- The need for using fluoride
- How to prevent cavities
- Good nutrition
Shelby Township, MI Child’s First Dental Visit
If you want to know more about bringing your child in for their first dental visit, contact HPS Dental today. We are located in Shelby Twp, MI and can be reached at (248) 652-0024. We look forward to meeting you!
