When Should Your Child First Visit Their Pediatric Dentist?

When should your child first visit their pediatric dentist in Northwest Dallas? What can you expect at this first appointment? How can you take care of your little one’s mouth at home? Luckily for you, a dentist is here to help you discover the answers to these questions. Continue reading below to learn more.

The First Visit

You should first see your dentist for children at Love Field before your child’s first birthday, or when their first tooth erupts, or comes in. This visit should last 30 to 45 minutes. During this appointment, the dentist will examine your child’s gums and soft tissues in their mouth, as well as any teeth that have erupted so far to check on their growth and development. If enough teeth have come in, the dentist may perform a gentle cleaning to remove any plaque and surface stains. The dentist will also show you how to properly brush and floss your child’s teeth at home.

Subsequent Visits

Just like adults, it’s imperative that your little one sees their dentist every six months. Some dentist may advise you to book appointments more often if your child is very young, such as once every three months.

If your child is very young, as in under four years old, they may not be comfortable with being left alone for a procedure such as a cleaning or a cavity filling. To prevent any problems from arising, talk to your child before the appointment. Explain that the dentist is only here to help make sure their smile stays happy and healthy. Maybe offer them a prize after their appointment if they do a good job.

How to Care for Your Child’s Teeth at Home

To keep your kid’s pearly whites healthy in between dental appointments, follow these tips:

• Wipe your baby’s gums with a warm, wet washcloth every day.
• As soon as teeth start erupting, use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a drop of toothpaste the size of a grain of rice to clean it. After your child has turned three, use a pea-sized drop of fluoridated toothpaste.
• You should start flossing as soon as your child has two teeth that touch each other.
• Prevent baby bottle tooth decay by not giving them a bottle of milk or juice before bed. Instead, send them off to dreamland with a bottle of water.
• Offer healthy snacks like fruit instead of candy that could cause cavities.

As soon as your infant gets their first tooth is a great time to schedule an appointment with their pediatric dentist. Make sure to follow the steps listed above to keep their little mouth clean between visits.

About the Practice

At Bear Creek Family Dentistry, we look forward to every opportunity to work with very young patients and watch their little smiles grow. We’ll make sure your child feels as comfortable as possible by answering all the questions and introducing them to all members of our amazing team. To book your child’s first appointment, visit the website for our Love Field location here or call
(214) 350-5333.