A baby’s life is full of firsts: first steps, first words, first smile, first tooth. There’s usually a standard timeline for how soon babies accomplish each of these milestones. When should your baby see the dentist for the first time?
Well, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics agree that children should see a dentist by age 1. By one year, your baby will have nearly all of their baby teeth, and as soon as the first tooth emerges, you should begin brushing baby’s teeth.
Toddlers and preschool-aged children are getting more cavities than ever before, and beginning dental visits on schedule can do wonders for preventing cavities. A dental checkup can help you determine your child’s risk for cavities and learn how to help prevent them.
What happens at the first dental visit?
At the first checkup, the dentist will gently examine and clean your baby’s teeth. The dentist will also discuss with you how to best care for your baby’s teeth and mouth; the right type of toothpaste, toothbrush, and other dental products to use. How to deal with thumb sucking and other problematic oral habits. How to properly use fluoride; good and bad foods for oral health; and tooth development milestones to look out for. You may also talk about things like teething and how to prevent traumas to new and developing teeth.
How to pick the right dentist for your baby’s first dental visit
Make sure that you find a dentist that will work with babies and children, either by finding a pediatric dentist (a dentist who only works with children) or a family dentist (a dentist who serves patients of all ages, including children). You should also ask a lot of questions to determine whether the dental office is knowledgeable about children’s dental health and development, is gentle and understanding with your child, and provides specific advice on your child’s dental health.
The first dental checkup can seem daunting, especially when it comes at only 12 months. It’s a crucial appointment for ensuring your baby’s dental health, so as your child’s first birthday approaches, schedule that first checkup.
Is it time for baby’s first checkup? Make an appointment with Mogren Dental today!
