How Soon Should You Take Your Child to a Pediatric Dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry visits should begin while the child is still a toddler. Early visits allow the dentist to better understand every child’s oral development while baby teeth emerge. They can also diagnose and address any oral health concerns early to minimize their short-term and long-term impact.

A parent’s guide to visiting a pediatric dentistry

The following is a complete guide to pediatric dentistry for parents, particularly concerning your child’s first few visits. The following review answers questions parents may have regarding when their children should visit the pediatric dentist for the first time, what to expect during the first few visits, and more.

When should I take my child to a pediatric dentist for the first time?

Parents should schedule their child’s first pediatric dentistry visit once they reach their first birthday or within six months from when their first tooth emerges. This can seem earlier than necessary for some patients. Still, it is essential to ensure the proper development of baby teeth and detect and address any concerns as soon as possible. Otherwise, the toddler could experience unnecessary discomfort during the teething stage and be at an increased risk of certain oral health conditions.

What can I expect during the first pediatric dentistry visit?

The first pediatric dentistry visit is simply an opportunity for the pediatric dentist to learn more about the child’s oral development. The visit also serves as an opportunity for the dentist and staff to talk about oral care for toddlers. This visit may include keeping the child’s mouth clean, dietary choices, preventing baby bottle tooth decay, and more. In most cases, no procedures are performed on the first visit.

How often are pediatric dentistry visits recommended?

Pediatric dentistry visits are recommended two or three times a year for patients with a healthy smile and are focused on prevention. Of course, adults should also follow the same dental visit schedule. In addition, dental professionals may recommend more frequent visits for patients with specific oral health problems that need to be addressed (i.e., cavities).

How can I protect my child’s teeth between visits?

The majority of oral care takes place at home. Oral care should include brushing all areas of teeth thoroughly several times daily and flossing daily; limiting sugar consumption can also help protect baby teeth in-between pediatric dentistry visits. In addition, highly active children who participate in activities that could result in a blow to the mouth (i.e., contact sports, martial arts, etc.) may need a dental mouthguard to help protect against dental trauma.