We will recommend ways your little ones can learn good oral health at an early age. Parents are encouraged to promote brushing at home; give your infant a toothbrush of his or her own and encourage her to brush with you. (you’ll find toothbrushes with chunky, short handles that are easy for her to grip).
Most children don’t have the dexterity necessary to thoroughly clean their own teeth until they’re about six or seven, so you’ll have to do that part of the job for your child. Try different tactics to make brushing fun: flavored toothpaste, a toothbrush with a favorite character on it, or singing songs about brushing. The primary goal is to instill healthy oral habits at an early age to set your child up for a lifetime of healthy, cavity-free.
Along with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, we recommend you schedule your child’s first visit within his/her first birthday. Children should visit the dentist every six months afterwards for regular checkups and routine teeth cleaning.
It is very important to make the first visit as positive and enjoyable for the child and parent as possible. We want your child to enjoy getting to know our doctors and staff and be comfortable at all times. After all, we are shaping the relationship for a lifetime of good oral health.
We understand that your family has a busy schedule, so when you’re preparing for a dental visit, please remember that an appointment can last between 20 to 40 minutes.
During your child’s first visit, we will:
- Review dental and medical history forms
- Take X-rays of their teeth and mouth
- Clean and polish your child’s teeth, checking teeth and gums for any cavities or early signs of tooth decay or gingivitis
After the checkup and teeth cleaning are complete, the doctor will meet with you and your child to discuss X-rays, help create an individual treatment plan, and answer any questions that you may have.
What to bring to your child’s first visit:
- Your completed patient information form
- Your insurance card