At what age should you start taking your child to the dentist?
Your number one job as a parent is to make sure your child has everything he or she needs. You begin with a nursery, filling it with furniture, clothing, blankets, and toys. You shower your infant with love. You check in with your little one’s pediatrician regularly. You have one more item on your to-do list. You need to know when you should begin your annual trips to the dentist to set your child on the path to excellent oral hygiene.
You need to start young
According to the experts, your infant’s first birthday is more than a milestone in your baby book. It’s also the recommended time to make your first appointment with a dentist who specializes in pediatric dentistry. As a rule of thumb, either plan on bringing your child in within six months after you see that first tooth appear or plan on schedule soon after your baby turns one. Your first visit will give your child’s dentist the opportunity to examine your little one’s mouth to ensure there are not no concerns. Most importantly, you will learn valuable tips about caring for your baby’s oral hygiene. Once your infant is one, there shouldn’t be a concern about drinking from the bottle at night, a habit that can lead to tooth decay.
Expect to see your child’s dentist twice a year eventually
Once your child reaches the age of two, it will be time to set up two dentist appointments a year. As an adult, it is recommended to see your dentist and dental hygienist every six months. The advice to come in every six months holds true for children as well. This is the best way to ensure your child has good oral hygiene. Your little one’s dentist will be able to stay on top of any potential problems. You want to nip early signs of tooth decay as soon as possible. Regular visits to dentists in Westerville Ohio, or your current local, can also keep you informed about the possible need for further intervention. In many cases, children will be good candidates for orthodontic work. Your pediatric dentist can refer your child to an orthodontist at a young age if there is a concern. It could mean the difference between short-term appliances to a full set of braces for an extended period of time.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure
Visiting the dentist on a routine basis can benefit your child in many ways. You’ll help your child to be comfortable about oral examinations, avoiding the fear suffered by many adults. Annual x-rays will begin around the age of 5 to make sure cavities are not brewing in hard-to-see places. Your child will be encouraged to brush often, learn how to floss properly, and eat foods that are good for our teeth. Your dentist may recommend your child have a sealant applied to the surface of his or her molars to reduce the risk of tooth decay until adult teeth come in. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you are worried about your little one’s teeth or you want advice, your pediatric dentist is only a phone call away. You can always set up additional visits on an as-needed basis. When you team up with your child’s dentist, you will be doing your best to spare your child fillings and tooth extractions. Healthy teeth are happy teeth.
You may have struggled with taking care of your teeth as a child. It can pose challenges as an adult. The best way to help your child with oral health is to pay close attention. Follow good practices for oral hygiene from infancy, such as cleaning your child’s gums with a soft, dampened piece of gauze or cloth after feedings and before bed. You can begin using a soft toothbrush once those tiny teeth make their first appearance. Your dentist will be your go-to source when you have any questions about your child’s oral health. Make sure brushing and flossing become a part of your child’s daily routine in the morning and at night. Starting good practices at a young age will set the stage for healthy teeth that will last a lifetime.