At What Age Should Children Begin Going To The Dentist?
Starting dental care early sets your children up for great dental health for life. However, many parents and caregivers are confused about when their children should begin receiving dental care. If you’re not sure when to schedule your child’s first dental appointment, we’re here to shed some light on the topic.
Why is Early Dental Care Important?
Early dental care is vital for your children’s overall good health and well-being, informing both parents and children about proper dental care at home and laying the foundation for a lifetime of good dental habits. Everyone, including children, should visit the dentist at least twice per year for an exam and thorough cleaning. This will help prevent cavities, plaque and tartar buildup, eliminating the need for fillings and extractions, which can be quite stressful for children. Early dental care not only protects your child’s physical dental health, but it can also help with socioeconomic factors such as school performance, behavior, self-esteem, and social skills.
When to Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Appointment
Some parents and caregivers believe you should wait until a child begins school before visiting a dentist, but this is an upsetting myth. In reality, children need to visit the dentist much earlier than that. The general consensus is that children should have their first dental appointment when their baby teeth begin to emerge or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. However, if you have questions or concerns about your child’s dental health before either of these events, feel free to schedule an appointment to discuss these with a pediatric dentist.
What to Expect at Your Child’s First Dental Appointment
A child’s first several dental appointments really focus on education for both parents and children. The dentist will examine the child’s teeth, gums, and mouth both visually and physically, ensuring that there are no abnormalities with the bone or soft tissue structures. They will discuss proper at-home care, including brushing twice daily and after meals, and flossing each time your child brushes. They will also go over what to do in case of a dental emergency. If needed, the dentist or a hygienist will clean the teeth that have emerged, removing any plaque or tartar buildup. Throughout the appointment the dentist and staff will go above and beyond to ensure your child is comfortable and safe, creating a positive experience that avoids the fear that many children have of the dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Childrens’ First Dental Appointment
How do I prepare for my child’s first dental appointment?
The best way to prepare your child for their first dental appointment is to talk to them about what to expect. Playing dentist with them or letting them watch shows where children roleplay visiting a dental office are great ways to introduce many of the tools, equipment, and words they will encounter during their first visit. Sometimes having an older sibling talk to them about visiting the dentist can be quite helpful.
Will my child need x-rays at their first dental appointment?
Probably not. Most children do not begin receiving x-rays at dental visits until they are close to school age. However, if the dentist notices any structural abnormalities or tooth decay, they may want to take an x-ray to get a better look at what is going on.
Early Dental Care in Hudson Bay
It’s vital for your children to receive early dental care from a competent and reputable pediatric dentist. If you live in the Hudson Bay and need a great dentist for your children, look no further than Briarcliff Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics in Briarcliff Manor. Nestled on the shores of the Hudson River, we’re conveniently centrally located for families all over the Bay, including Ossining, Pleasantville, Sleepy Hollow, and Tarrytown. To schedule your child’s first dental appointment today, contact us at 914-762-6260 or send us a message online.