Prepare your child for a lifetime of excellent oral health by taking them to their first dental visit with a Little Rock dentist while they still have their baby teeth.
Your child’s first teeth cleaning is a big event that sets the tone for a lifetime of future visits to the dentist, so it is critical that you adequately prepare your child for this experience and choose a dentist in Little Rock who can provide your child with gentle, personalized care. Going for his or her first teeth cleaning with a Little Rock dentist should be a positive, and even fun, experience for your child.
Prepare For a First Teeth Cleaning and Start Dental Care Early
Some parents may choose to put off cleanings and check-ups for their children until their baby teeth start to fall out and their adult teeth start to come in, but children should begin to receive dental care at a much earlier age. Most dentists and healthcare professionals agree that a child’s first visit to the dentist should occur by his or her first birthday. Young children can develop cavities and other oral health problems as easily as older children and adults. In fact, more than 1 in 4 American children have a cavity by their fourth birthday.
It’s important to find either a pediatric dentist or a general care dentist with experience working with infants, toddlers, and their parents. The dentist you choose should be able to answer all of your questions and address all your concerns about your child’s dental health. He or she should maintain a calm, gentle demeanor throughout the cleaning and the rest of the appointment, even if your child fusses or becomes frightened during the exam.
You can prevent many dental issues that occur later in life by encouraging healthy habits in your child before he or she reaches elementary school so that it becomes part of their routine. This is why incorporating dentist’s visits early in your child’s dental care is so important. Every child has unique health needs and your dentist will be able to recommend a dental plan that promotes their healthy development.
What Happens During a Child’s First Teeth Cleaning?
The purpose of your child’s first visit is largely for the dentist to assess their tooth development and general oral health. During this appointment, expect the following to occur:
- An inspection of your child’s mouth, cheeks, and gums for any sores, cavities, or other injuries.
- An examination of your child’s bite to see how their teeth come together.
- A cleaning and follow-up discussion with you about daily dental hygiene for your child.
- A discussion of your child’s habits, such as thumb sucking and pacifier use and how certain milestones, such as teething, may be affected by them.
You can help your child have a positive first experience with the dentist by talking about the visit with them beforehand. You can show them educational videos about teeth cleaning, or simply bring them with you to your appointments so they get used to the dentist and being in the dentist’s office.
At Arkansas Family Dental, our team of dentists can give your child a positive experience during each and every dental visit. Schedule your child’s first teeth cleaning with a Little Rock dentist at Arkansas Family Dental or 501.683.8886 to speak to a member of our staff about your child’s dental care.
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