First smile. First tooth. First steps. There are so many new things happening in those first years. As a parent, it’s important to know when your baby’s firsts should happen. Here’s how to know when to take your baby to their first dental appointment.
Signs Your Baby Should See a Dentist
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) has a simple and easy-to-follow recommendation for when to take your baby to their first dental appointment: within 6 months of their first baby tooth erupting or by 1 year of age.
Taking your baby to the dentist early can have a positive impact on your child’s future dental health in many ways. Children who visit the dentist young and have a positive experience are less likely to experience dental-related anxiety later in life and will be more likely to understand the importance of taking good care of their teeth and gums.
Baby Teeth are Important
Cavities can happen in baby teeth, too. Just like when an adult experiences a cavity, cavities can cause a lot of discomfort in young children. The biggest issue is, it can be hard for children to tell us what’s wrong, which allows decay to progress rapidly. Early baby tooth loss can also lead to problems later in life that may cause your child’s adult teeth to come in crooked, leading to the need for braces. If you have any concerns about the health of your baby’s teeth, call a dentist as soon as possible to make an appointment.
Baby’s First Dentist
Knowing when to take your baby to their first dental appointment is the first step, but it’s also important to choose the right dentist for your child. Pediatric dentists take great joy in making their offices fun places for young kids to learn about dental care. They also often have fun stickers and brightly-colored toothbrushes on hand that are specifically sized for each age.
As the parent, you know more than anyone what is best for your child. If you’re feeling unsure which dentist is the right fit, you can always ask for an initial consultation or tour of the office so that you can ask questions. Make sure to pay attention to how comfortable you and your baby feel in the new environment.
We’re Here to Help
Ensuring your baby’s teeth are healthy and protected can save a lot of discomfort, time, and money in their future. Your baby’s dentist will be happy to show you the best ways to care for your baby’s teeth as they grow, so don’t hesitate to reach out and ask any questions you may have. We’re always here to help.
Call our Avondale, Gilbert or Mesa dental office, to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.