We recommend every child needs to visit the dentist by their first birthday. Starting with oral health early, you are giving the best advantage for your child to have healthy teeth and gums. Often, if there are issues found during the appointment, the early the better for remedy. As you learn more about infant and toddler oral health, it will help you to make the right decisions in the future. Below is a short guide on what you can expect from a first dentist appointment and beyond.
The first dentist appointment
During the first visit, the dentist will complete a check-up of your baby’s entire mouth. The check-up will include inspection of tooth eruptions, gums, tongue, cheeks and lips. During the appointment, you will need to provide a history of your baby’s health. The dentist may ask questions about your baby, including things like current oral maintenance procedures. If you are concerned about remembering the details at the appointment, we suggest keeping a journal of your baby’s health and development. Be sure to include details of their day-to-day routine, habits and diet. Think of this exchange as a dialogue, as you will also be able to ask questions and raise any concerns. Our dentists will happily discuss the development of teeth and bite, soft tissue around the gums, oral habits like sucking a thumb or pacifier, plus risk factors.
As the dentist reviews your child’s mouth, the dentist will make suggestions for oral care tactics to ensure optimal oral health. The goal is to ensure that your child has a good start to oral health and then a plan of action created for subsequent appointments to care for the teeth and gums.
Future dentist appointments
Be sure to follow through with appointments in the future as suggested by your dentist. By following a proper care regiment for child’s teeth and visiting the dentist regularly, you are preparing your child to have healthy teeth and gums into adulthood.
Book your first dentist appointment today!
At Regent Avenue Dental Centre, we offer exceptional dental care for all members of your family – from newborn to senior. We strive to make you and your child as comfortable as possible during the process. We use age-appropriate terminology and interactive demonstrations showing proper brushing and flossing techniques. As an added incentive, if you book your first dentist appointment with us before your child is three, the exam is free! For all children’s dental health needs, give our office a call today – 204.817.8915.
