When to Take Your Baby to the Family Dentist

If you have a baby, it might be time to take them to the family dentist sooner than you think. Many American children do not see the family dentist until over two years of age. Unfortunately, this is much later than dentists recommend. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children go by a year of age. Read on to learn why this is.

Importance of primary teeth

Parents should take children to see the dentist by the time the first tooth erupts. This may happen before one year of age. Many primary teeth begin growing by six months. However, if this does not happen, children should still see the dentist. The baby teeth need to be kept in place until they naturally fall out. There are many functions of primary teeth:

• Helping children chew food and maintain healthy eating habits
• Saving space for permanent teeth
• Helping with speech development
• Making a beautiful smile that helps children feel good about themselves

Many people do not realize how important primary teeth are. Without the right oral care, the primary teeth can begin to decay. If the teeth decay, the teeth will not stay in place until the permanent teeth come. During the first dental visit, parents can learn how to care for the primary teeth.

Calming nervousness at the first visit

It is natural for a child to feel nervous or upset at the first family dentist visit. The child may feel anxious in this unfamiliar environment. The sharp instruments and machinery can make a child feel upset. Parents can give children a sneak peek at the dentist. For example, the child can go with the parent at the parent’s next dental visit. That way, the child will get used to seeing someone’s teeth looked at and cleaned.

For older children, parents can teach the child what happens. There are many online resources, such as videos, that show what happens during the visit. This can help children learn more about the dentist visit and oral health, in general. Parents can also check out books from a local library.

Parents and children can play around before the actual exam takes place. The parent and child can take turns being the patient and the dentist. Both can examine each other’s mouths using a mirror. That way, the child will be familiar with how an examination feels.

Taking time is good for children of any age. The child should not feel like the visit is rushed. It is good for children to be well-rested before going to a family dentist. That can help make the child more comfortable.

Visit a family dentist today

The right time to take your child to a family dentist is no later than 12 months. However, your child may need to have a visit sooner than that. The good news is that you can easily prepare your child for a visit by practicing and taking the time. You can also show your child what will happen during the visit.

Request an appointment here: https://www.grandparkwaypediatricdental.com or call Grand Parkway Pediatric Dental at (832) 579-0960 for an appointment in our Richmond office.

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