Too bad kids don’t come with an instruction manual that has directions on how best to care for them in those early years. Every new parent has questions about what should or shouldn’t be done regarding their child’s care. When to make that first dental appointment is frequently asked, along with how to take care of those newly erupted teeth.
Early Dental Care
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the nation’s most recognized authority on children’s oral health, recommends that children start having dental appointments when the first tooth erupts or at least by the first birthday. While it may not seem necessary, early visits to the dentist establish a strong foundation on which to build life-long oral care habits. With these early exams, your child is learning that a trip to the dentist can be non-threatening. It also establishes a baseline of oral care and reinforces the preventive aspect of dental care.
Scheduling Early Dental Appointments
Unless there are extenuating circumstances, your child will have dental appointments annually once the first teeth come in. Regular dental visits will allow the dentist to monitor the eruption of teeth and possibly offset any dental issues before they have an opportunity to grow into expensive problems.
When a relationship is established between your child and the dentist from the appearance of that first tooth, it is easier for the dentist to monitor your child’s oral care. Your child’s dentist will also be able to alert you to any developing issues of which you need to be aware. For example, early detection of misalignment might be managed in its earliest stages.
Mission Bend Family Dentistry welcomes new little patients. Give us a call to schedule a dental appointment for your baby when you see that first tooth.