First Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists recommend that children receive their first dental check-up by the age of 1. We invite parents to accompany your child during treatment so that you can see our interaction with your child and discuss any dental findings. These first visits help your child begin to get comfortable in a dental setting and allow us to observe any dental changes from an early age.
During the visit, we will get to know your child and will work to establish a sense of trust as we educate your child and answer any questions they may have. For older children, we will explain what will happen during the visit and show them the tools we use to help keep their smile healthy. Our team will work at your child’s pace and allow their comfort to guide the treatment. At your child’s first visit, we will review your child’s medical/dental health history with you, perform a thorough head and neck examination, and evaluate your child’s teeth and gums. Digital radiographs (x-rays) are taken only if necessary. If no treatment is needed, the teeth will be cleaned and a fluoride treatment will be provided.
We look forward to meeting you and your child for your first appointment!
Importance and Care of Primary Teeth (Baby Teeth)
Baby teeth, also called primary teeth, are shed, but they are still very important for a number of reasons. Children need strong, healthy baby teeth in order to chew food properly, pronounce words correctly, and maintain space in the jaw for permanent teeth. That is why it is important to take good care of the primary teeth by keeping them clean and healthy.
Even before the first tooth erupts, your child’s gums should be wiped gently with a wet cloth or gauze after every feeding. At the appearance of the first tooth, begin brushing your child’s teeth with water. Children older than 2 years should be supervised during brushing to ensure that only a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste is used and that the toothpaste is spit out rather than swallowed, and they rinse with water afterward.
