This is one of the most common questions we receive from new parents. After all, parents are often unsure about when they should take their child for their first dental examination. Should they wait until their baby’s teeth emerge or come in earlier?
We will answer this question in this article. Additionally, we will provide helpful information about your child’s first appointments, and why these early visits are so important for their long-term oral health.
When should your child start going to the dentist?
Your child should have their first dental visit after their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday (even if no teeth have emerged yet). This means your child needs to start going to the dentist while they’re still a baby.
To some parents, this may seem too young. However, even babies and toddlers can get cavities! As soon as their first tooth appears, they’re at risk for developing tooth decay.
Furthermore, other oral health conditions can develop as a result of negative habits that start early in life (such as finger-sucking). Your child’s dentist plays a vital role in early detection and prevention. Therefore, the sooner you can take your child to see the dentist, the better.
Why does your baby need to see the dentist?
There are many reasons why your baby needs to start seeing their dentist regularly, starting by the time they turn one. They should do so to detect oral issues early, establish good dental hygiene habits, and create positive associations with the dentist, for example.
Early Detection of Oral Health Issues
These early appointments are crucial for monitoring the development of your child’s mouth. They give your Mississauga dentist ample opportunity to identify and treat current or potential problems before they become serious. Early treatment tends to be faster, less invasive, and less costly.
When developmental problems are detected and treated quickly, your child is spared from complications and lengthy treatments later in life. For example, orthodontic and bite issues can often be corrected far more easily when your child is small versus when they’re a teenager or young adult.
Establish Good Dental Hygiene Habits
The foundation of your child’s long-term oral health begins while they’re young. This is the time to educate them about the importance of caring for their teeth and teach them the best techniques. As their parent, much of this responsibility falls on you. However, your child’s dentist also has a role to play.
Your child’s regular visits to our Mississauga dental office are educational, as well as preventative. During these appointments, the dentist shows your child how to best care for their teeth and gums. They also offer tips and additional information about things you should be conscious of as your child’s mouth develops.
The instruction that your child receives at the dentist is vital for establishing strong dental hygiene habits that will last a lifetime.
Create Positive Associations With Dental Clinics
Your child’s first dental office experiences are extremely important. These early appointments set the tone for your child’s relationship with professional oral care. Positive experiences help ensure your child maintains regular dental appointments throughout their lifetime, whereas negative experiences can lead to dental anxiety.
Many patients experience dental phobia into adulthood, and these troubling feelings often get in the way of consistent, professional oral care. However, creating early positive associations with dental offices can help prevent future anxiety and fear.
When you take your child to see a dentist early in life, they become more comfortable with the experience. They know what to expect during future visits and are less likely to feel afraid (and skip appointments as adults).
What happens during your baby’s first dental appointment?
Your baby’s first dental appointment occurs when they are between the ages of six months and one year. During this visit, your child’s dentist examines their tooth or teeth, jaws, bite, gums, and oral tissue to check for growth and development. They look for signs of early tooth decay or other conditions requiring special care.
Your child’s emerged baby teeth may receive a gentle cleaning, including plaque removal and polishing. X-rays are not typically performed on young children.
Much of their first appointment is focused on education. The dentist teaches you how to care for your baby’s teeth and gums and demonstrates the proper techniques. They also ask about your child’s eating habits and provide dietary counselling since diet is hugely influential in the prevention of oral health issues.
You can also ask the dentist any questions you may have about your child’s ongoing oral care.
How often should your child go to the dentist?
Just like adults, children should visit their dentist every six months. However, children with ongoing complex oral health issues may need to come see us every three months so we can monitor their development and treatment more closely.
Preparing for Your Child’s First Appointment
Prepare Yourself
Once you schedule your child’s first appointment, think about which questions you want to ask the dentist. As we said, this first visit is a fantastic educational opportunity. Don’t be afraid to ask!
If you suffer from dental anxiety or phobia, take extra care before this first appointment. Children pick up on the fears of their parents, often becoming anxious themselves. It’s very important that you are a source of strength and stability for your child, especially during these initial appointments.
Prepare Your Child
We recommend scheduling a morning appointment for your child’s first visit to our dental office in Mississauga. Try not to upset your child’s routine. It’s best for the appointment to be over before snack time or nap time. Remember, positive associations are vital at this age. A grumpy, hungry, and overtired child is not going to enjoy their first dental visit.
Prepare the Dentist
You should give the dentist your child’s complete health history during their first appointment. The dentist may also ask about your oral health history as well.
Child-Friendly Dental Offices in Mississauga
Bristol Dental Clinic welcomes patients of all ages! We take pride in creating a warm, welcoming, and comfortable environment that helps our littlest patients (and their parents) feel at ease.
Furthermore, our dental office in Mississauga is backed by a friendly and compassionate dental team that is committed to ensuring your child’s long-term oral health. We’re happy to offer tips, answer questions, and do whatever we can to make these first visits as positive as possible!
To book an appointment in Mississauga, call Bristol Dental Clinic at 866-673-2109 or contact us here.
