When Should I Schedule My Baby’s First Dental Appointment?
When it comes to parenting, the first few months of a child’s life are some of the most special. You have a tiny bundle of joy that represents a life of potential and promise. You do whatever you can to ensure your child is healthy and starts with good habits that lead to a lifetime of wellness, including oral and overall wellness. You may wonder when to schedule your child’s first dental appointment. Here’s what you should know about booking your baby’s first visit.
Starting Off Right
Did you know that even a baby’s teeth can have cavities and other issues? Although your child may not be eating the sugary foods found often in adult diets, cavity-causing bacterias are present in milk and other baby foods. This is why the experts strongly recommend scheduling a dentist appointment either within six months of a child’s first tooth eruption, your baby’s first birthday, or whichever comes first. Good dental health habits start from the very beginning, and as a parent, you care about the health of your baby’s mouth.
When Should I Schedule My Baby’s First Dental Appointment?
When it comes to parenting, the first few months of a child’s life are some of the most special. You have a tiny bundle of joy that represents a life of potential and promise. You do whatever you can to ensure your child is healthy and starts with good habits that lead to a lifetime of wellness, including oral and overall wellness. You may wonder when to schedule your child’s first dental appointment. Here’s what you should know about booking your baby’s first visit.
Starting Off Right
Did you know that even a baby’s teeth can have cavities and other issues? Although your child may not be eating the sugary foods found often in adult diets, cavity-causing bacterias are present in milk and other baby foods. This is why the experts strongly recommend scheduling a dentist appointment either within six months of a child’s first tooth eruption, your baby’s first birthday, or whichever comes first. Good dental health habits start from the very beginning, and as a parent, you care about the health of your baby’s mouth.
Understanding the Importance of Early Dental Care
You may be wondering if infancy is too early to visit the dentist. Consider the fact that approximately 20% of children between the ages of 2 and 5 have cavities. Studies also suggest that delaying your baby’s first dental visit can double the risk of tooth decay. Dentists can show you how to take care of your baby’s teeth and provide guidance on reversing any decay before it leads to cavities and other types of damage. Babies are too young to communicate teeth issues, and what may look like normal teething discomfort may be signs of tooth decay. When you schedule your baby’s first visit, your dentist will check for decay, which can be especially aggressive on an infant’s teeth.
Preparing for the First Visit
Preparing for the first visit benefits you, your child, and your dentist. Consider these tips when getting ready to take your baby to the dentist for the first time:
- Schedule appointments in the morning when kids tend to be more alert and fresh.
- Be calm and positive. Even if you have anxiety about visiting the dentist, you don’t want your child to share those same anxieties. Even babies can sense a parent’s discomfort.
- Prepare a list of questions and concerns to discuss.
- Discuss your baby’s full health history and dieting habits to give the dentist as much information as possible.
- Be open with your child about what to expect if they’re old enough to understand. Dentists are health experts who want the best for your child’s oral health. They’re here to help.
A lifetime of good dental health starts from the moment the first tooth emerges. ActOn Dentistry is your trusted partner for oral health for the entire family. Knowledgeable, kid-friendly experts are ready to help you keep your baby’s mouth healthy and happy. When you’re ready to schedule your baby’s first visit, contact us at (636) 327-5600 to get started on a life of healthy and happy teeth for your baby.
Request an Appointment
If you are ready to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tinker or Dr. Slaven at ActOn Dentistry, please click the link below.