Archive for February 2022

Starting oral hygiene care right from the start is one of the best things you can do for your child’s smile. That includes visiting Hebron Family Dentistry for regular dental exams and cleanings. The question is, when is the best time to schedule your little one’s first dental appointment?

When Should Your Child First Visit a Dentist?

While it may sound early, your baby should first see a dentist within six months of the first tooth emerging and no later than the first birthday. That’s according to the latest guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

After the first visit, kids typically require dental visits every six months. If, however, you ever notice signs of tooth decay or any dental problems, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment right away. Symptoms indicating that your child needs to see a dentist include white spots on the teeth, lesions or ulcers in the mouth, bluish bruises where a tooth is coming in, or any other potential concerns.

Baby Teeth Matter

Even though baby teeth are temporary, it’s essential to keep them healthy. Your baby needs strong teeth to learn how to speak and chew solid foods. Having a decayed or painful tooth interferes with eating and getting the required nutrition to grow and stay healthy. Moreover, decay in baby teeth can cause permanent damage to the adult teeth developing behind the scenes.

If your little one loses a baby tooth too early due to cavities or injuries, the neighboring teeth may shift out of alignment, causing crooked permanent teeth and problems with the bite. Your child may require braces later on to correct orthodontic concerns stemming from missing a baby tooth.

What Happens During Your Baby’s First Dentist Visit?

Your baby’s first visit to the dentist is an important milestone that we’re so excited to share with you. We’ll start with greeting you and your little one, and we’ll ask you if you have any concerns. We’ll take a look at those tiny pearly whites and examine your baby’s gums, lips, tongue, and the inside of the cheeks. We’ll also evaluate your child’s bite to rule out any abnormalities.

The first visit will also include a conversation about oral hygiene care, teething, pacifier use, thumb-sucking, nutrition, fluoride needs, and tooth-friendly habits for long-term oral health. We welcome your questions and are happy to assist you in any way we can.

Quality Pediatric Dentistry Services Near Me

Contact Hebron Family Dentistry in Hebron, KY, to schedule your baby’s first dental appointment. Our kid-friendly team is committed to providing quality, gentle care to our young patients. We’re all about setting the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Call us and schedule your appointment today!