When should I start dental visits for my child?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends your child visit the dentist by 12 months of age, or within six months of the appearance of her first tooth. Thereafter, plan for a visit every six months.
A visit by your child’s first birthday may be sooner than you think is necessary, but it allows the dentist to make sure her teeth are developing correctly and it helps instill good hygiene habits. Also, the earlier you start coming to the office, the more accepting your child will likely be of the dentist. If you wait until your child is two years old or older, he may develop anxiety around his first visit.
Does my child really need dental care for baby teeth?
Baby teeth are critical in a child’s development. Yes, he’ll lose them as he grows older, but it’s important this happens naturally and not due to decay or accident. Baby teeth play a role in:
- Speech development
- Self-confidence in a healthy smile
- Proper chewing
- Saving space for adult teeth
If my child is scared of visiting the dentist, can we ease his fears?
Start out by educating your child before he visits the office. Explain to him what will happen and that it won’t hurt. You could even bring your child with you to your personal dental appointment so he can see what goes on.
When you come in for a pediatric visit, Lee Dental will do everything possible to make your child feel comfortable. We’ll take our time with your child, explain procedures, and, most importantly, try to make it fun.
What good dental habits should my child learn?
Children should take care of their teeth as thoroughly as adults. Brushing twice a day, or after meals, and regular flossing are a must. When young, children need to be monitored during brushing to ensure they do a thorough job. Think of it as an investment in a lifetime of oral health.
Is toothpaste safe for young children?
Toothpaste is perfectly safe in small amounts. When baby teeth erupt, use a tiny bit of toothpaste with fluoride on a soft toothbrush to brush your child’s mouth twice daily. A pea-sized amount of toothpaste should be used when your child is between the ages of three and six. Be sure to teach your child to spit out the toothpaste, rather than swallow it.
