First Dental Visit
Excerpt from "Your Child's Teeth: Helpful Tips for Parents and Caregivers", by the American Dental Association:
As your child’s first tooth erupts, consult with the dentist regarding a first dental visit. It is advantageous for the first dental visit to occur within six months after the first tooth erupts, but not later than the first birthday. Treat the fist dental visit as you would a well baby checkup with the child’s physician.
During the first visit, the dentist can:
- review the medical and dental histories
- complete a thorough oral examination to assess growth and development, oral hygiene, injuries, cavities and/or other problems
- clean the teeth as indicated and provide suggestions about daily care
- evaluate and optimize your child’s fluoride exposure because too much or too little can lead to problems
- review feeding practices and provide dietary counseling
- assess your child’s risk of developing tooth decay
- provide information regarding oral development, teething, pacifier or finger/thumb sucking habits and injury prevention
- plan for any needed treatment or the next check up. The dentist also will answer any questions the parents may have.
By starting visits at an early age, you will help your child build a lifetime of good dental habits.