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Child’s First Dental Visit
A child's first set of teeth, the primary teeth, are very important in
helping your child to chew food easily, learn to speak clearly and look
good. A child's first dental visit also is very important in launching
your child on a lifetime of good dental health. The following
information outlines important information regarding a child’s
first dental visit.
FAQs
Why should I take my child to the
dentist?
Your child's general health may be affected if diseased and broken
primary teeth are not treated early. If a primary tooth is lost too
soon, your child may need to wear a space maintainer until the permanent
teeth erupt. Otherwise permanent teeth may come in crooked and possibly
require lengthy and more expensive corrective treatment later.
At what age should my child first see a
dentist?
Ideally, it's best to take your child to the dentist between six and
twelve months of age. The earlier you begin, the better chance your
dentist has to prevent problems. The dentist will look for decay, teach
you how to properly clean your child's teeth daily, evaluate adverse
habits such as thumbsucking and identify your child's fluoride
needs.
How often should my child see a
dentist?
It is generally recommended that children visit the dentist every six
months. Since children's dental needs differ, your dentist is the best
one to recommend how often that child should be seen based on his or her
individual needs and habits.
What should I tell my child about
seeing the dentist?
Tell your child that the dentist is a friendly doctor who will help the
child stay healthy. Talk about the visit in a positive, matter-of-fact
way as a pleasant, new adventure. Do the following:
- Try to make dental visits enjoyable for your child.
- Let your child go into the treatment room alone if the dentist
prefers.
- Set a good example by brushing and flossing daily and visiting the
dentist regularly.
Don't do the following:
- Bribe your child into going to the dentist.
- Use a dental visit as punishment.
- Let the child know you feel anxiety about the dental visit.
- Let anyone tell your child scary stories about dental visits.
Resources
American Academy of Pediatric
Dentistry: Dental Care for Your Baby
Simple Steps for Better Dental Health: Your
Child’s First Dental Visit
What
to Expect at Your Child’s First Dental Visit
| primary teeth, dental visit, dental visits, first dental visit, first visit, child, primary tooth |
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