When Should Kids See a Dentist?

All parents wish for their child to enjoy a healthy and permanent smile. Frequently, people ask: “When should children see a dentist?” While the answer may surprise you, taking your child for their first dental check-up really is important for the future of their dental hygiene.

You should take your child to the dentist when they reach one year old or when the first tooth has appeared.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, it is recommended that children have their first dental visit either by the time they are one year old or as soon as their first tooth breaks through which is earlier if the first happens. Even though it seems early, visiting the dentist at this stage is important for creating a dental place, stopping cavities and reassuring you about future appointments.

At Smile Wellness, we focus on our patient’s first visit to be exciting and enlightening. Besides cleaning teeth, dentists educate children and parents on proper dental health during childhood.

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The Importance of Early Dental Visits

Though your child’s natural teeth eventually fall out, baby teeth are very helpful for their development. If you start dental visits from a young age, you will see stronger results.

• Reduces the chance for cavities – Children can get cavities before their first birthday. Regular early visits let you discover signs of decay before they become more serious.
• Help in chewing and healthy speech- Baby teeth assist in developing good speech and enable your child to eat well.
• Helps the correct placement of permanent teeth by keeping the space open – Healthy primary teeth reserve the proper place for the permanent teeth.
• Parents are educated during visits – During such visits, you can ask your dentist about starting to use a pacifier, thumb-sucking, fluoride and teething.

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Expectations during your Child’s First Appointment

Treating patients in a caring and gentle way is important at Smile Wellness. Normally, the first session is short and is made up of these steps:

• A simple check-up of your child’s mouth, teeth and gums
• A discussion about the importance of brushing, flossing, what to eat and oral hygiene
• Advice on how to help and soothe your child’s sore mouth and gums
• An approachable and happy atmosphere to make your child comfortable

We are happy to respond to all your questions and give advice that fits your child’s current development phase.

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How Often Should Kids Visit the Dentist?

Children should visit a dentist for a cleaning and checkup every six months after the first visit. Coming in for routine visits ensures we observe your child's teeth development, prevent decay and guide you on how to keep good oral hygiene. For kids who have special care needs such as dental braces or chances of tooth decay, we may advise more visits to the dentist.

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Suggestions for Having Positive Dental Appointments

A positive visit to the dentist may likely encourage kids to take care of their teeth as they get older. Try using these suggestions to help your child get prepared:

• Make use of books or videos to get ready for dental appointments.
• Role play the visit to the dentist at home so it becomes less new to your child.
• Try to stay away from words such as “hurt” or “pain”
• Appreciate your child when they face fears and obey you.

Smile Wellness makes sure kids feel safe and find it easy to learn and care for their teeth.

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Begin your Child’s Oral Care Today

Adults should take their young children to the dentist early in life. Regular visits from childhood set your child up for healthy smiles and stop issues from appearing.

Reach out to Smile Wellness now to make an appointment and reward your child with a high self-esteem smile. We are ready to welcome you as our patient.