Many parents aren’t sure how old their child should be before their first visit with the dentist. So, when should a child go to the dentist? Consider your child’s age, their eating habits, pacifier use, and finger-sucking behavior. Typically, children should visit the dentist within the first six months of their teeth erupting. Read on to learn more about a child’s first visit to the dentist, how important pediatric dentistry services can be for your child, and why Lovett Dental Jersey Village has the best pediatric dentistry services in the area.
When Should a Child Go to the Dentist?
Your child’s first dental visit is a big milestone. While some parents believe that children’s dental health isn’t important until they have permanent teeth, this not the case. As soon as children start developing baby teeth, they are at risk of getting cavities. Parents must be proactive about their baby’s general dental health by making a dental visit shortly before or after their first tooth comes in.
Visiting the dentist early on gives parents a chance to prepare their children for future dental visits. Likewise, parents can ask the dentist about the best practices for caring for their child’s teeth at home. For example, during your first dental visit, you’ll learn all about when to floss your baby’s teeth, how to use an infant toothbrush, and when your child can begin spitting while brushing.
Preparing Your Child to Visit the Dentist
Your children’s first dental visit can shape the way they view all dentists as they grow up. Prepare for this special day by finding the right Lovett Dental Jersey Village dentist for your child. The right dentist will focus on child-friendly details and behavior that will make your child feel right at home.
Prepare your children for their first dental visit by showing them what they can expect when they arrive. Reading books that explain what dental appointments are like can help your children look forward to having a dentist examine and clean their teeth. In addition to helping your children look forward to their dental visit, you can prepare by asking for patient forms before the appointment. Be sure to ask the Lovett Dental Jersey Village dentist about any concerning behaviors like teething, excessive use of the pacifier, or thumb sucking.
Tips for a Great Dental Visit
In addition to preparing your children for their first visit, the way that you schedule your child’s dental appointments can affect the outcome of the visit. Avoid scheduling dental visits during nap time, as this may result in your child being cranky and uncooperative. Set an appointment after nap time to help promote a smooth dental visit.
Additionally, be sure that your children are well fed before their appointment, so they won’t get hungry while they see the dentist. Avoid giving your children snacks directly before or during the visit so that your children’s teeth are clean when they go in for their routine checkup.
Caring for Your Child’s Dental Health at Home
Protecting your child’s teeth should begin at home. Before your baby’s teeth erupt, make a habit of cleaning the gums with a damp and clean cloth. Start brushing your children’s teeth with a soft-bristled brush once their first tooth appears.
Likewise, prevent your child from developing bottle tooth decay by limiting bottle time. Make an effort to avoid giving your child a bottle of juice, milk, or other sweetened liquid at nap time or bedtime.
Book an Appointment for Your Child Today at Lovett Dental Jersey Village
Make sure your children are ready for their first visit to the dentist. With the help of our professional dental experts, your child’s first dental visit is sure to go smoothly. Contact Lovett Dental Jersey Village at 281-890-5002 to learn more about your baby’s first visit to the dentist.
