We see many children in our office, and we want you and your child to feel at ease from the moment you arrive in our office.

WHEN SHOULD I TAKE MY CHILD TO THE DENTIST?

Children should visit the dentist by their first birthday. It is important that your child’s newly-erupted teeth receive proper dental care and benefit from proper oral hygiene habits right from the beginning.

YOUR CHILD’S FIRST VISIT

At the first visit, we will review your child’s medical history, introduce him or her to the dental chair and some dental instruments like the mirror and the suction.  The first exam will likely be on a parent’s lap, knee-to-knee with the dentist.  We will answer any questions you may have and make sure you know the best practices to follow at home.  The cleaning may be with a toothbrush, and fluoride varnish may be applied.  We hope to end the visit with a high five!

WHEN NEW TEETH ARRIVE

Your child’s first teeth will begin to erupt between the ages of six and 12 months, and will continue to erupt until about age three. During this time, your child’s gums may feel tender and sore. To help alleviate this discomfort, we recommend that you soothe the gums by rubbing a clean finger or a cool, wet cloth across them. You may also choose to make use of a teething ring. When your child has finished teething, you can expect a total of 20 primary teeth.

Your child’s primary teeth are lost at various times throughout childhood. Permanent teeth begin erupting at about age six, and continue until about age 12, except for wisdom teeth which we will evaluate by x-ray at that time.

ADOPTING HEALTHY ORAL HYGIENE HABITS

As soon as they erupt, teeth are susceptible to decay and should be brushed twice daily, especially before bedtime.

Parents are the best instructors because they lead by example.  Brushing together and having children see their parents brush reinforce its importance.

Your child should visit the dentist every six months for regular dental cleanings and checkups. We recommend fluoride treatments along with cleanings to keep teeth their strongest. Tooth sealants are also recommended when permanent molars erupt because they “seal” the deep grooves in your child’s teeth, preventing decay from forming in these hard-to-reach areas

Getting to know your teeth is fun!

http://www.mouthhealthykids.org/en

http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/babies-and-kids/moms-guide-to-fluoride

Mouth Healthy Kids by the American Dental Association