When Should You Take your Child to the Dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children go to the dentist within six months after the first tooth erupts or by their first birthday. Primary teeth (also known as "baby teeth") typically begin growing at around 6 months of age. But according to a 2009 survey of American children's oral health, conducted by Morpace, Inc., most American children don't see their dentist until they are an average of 2.6 years old, which is far later than the professional recommendation.
The Importance of Primary Teeth
The most common reason among families who have not yet taken their young children to the dentist is that they don't "have enough teeth yet," but it is important to care for each of the primary teeth. According to the AAPD, primary teeth need to stay healthy until they are lost naturally. They are important for several reasons, including:
- Helping children chew correctly to maintain good nutrition.
- Helping save space for permanent teeth.
- Involvement in speech development.
- Supporting a healthy smile that helps children feel good about the way their teeth look.
Because most parents don't recognize the significance of primary teeth, there's a continuing need for more dental health education for parents with young children. The first dentist visit is a perfect opportunity for parents to learn proper brushing and flossing techniques for their kids that will ensure lifelong oral health.
Calming Dental Visit Jitters
Going to the dentist for the first time can be an overwhelming experience for a young child. It's wise to begin taking your children to the dentist around the time the first tooth erupts because, at that age, they are probably too young to be nervous. If you wait until your child is older, they may have some anxiety at the time of the first visit. Here are some ways to calm their nerves and help them feel comfortable at the dentist:
- Give your child a preview. Take your child to your next checkup so they can see you having your teeth examined and cleaned. This will help them understand that the dental office is safe, dental procedures are normal, and the dentist is friendly.
- Learn more about it. There are a lot of books and online resources geared toward teaching children more about dental health and dentist visits. Delta Dental's children's website www.mysmilekids.com has fun stories and activities to help children learn about their teeth.
- Roleplay. Take turns pretending to be a dentist and a patient with your child. Have your child lie down or lean back in a chair, examine their teeth with a mirror, and use your fingers to count their teeth. Then switch roles. This will help them become familiar with the feel of a dental exam.
- Don't rush. Plan for plenty of time before your child's dental visit, so it isn't rushed. Make sure your child is well-rested, so they feel relaxed and comfortable.
What to Expect at the First Visit
The purpose of your child's first dental visit is to check their gums and primary teeth and to evaluate any emerging problems regarding jaw growth and dental development. During this visit, your dentist will conduct a full oral exam. They will learn about the health of your child's jaw, gum, oral tissue, and erupted teeth, and will reveal how to care for your child's teeth most effectively. If your child requires it, the dentist can gently clean their teeth to remove any plaque or stains. A great first visit will help your child build up confidence and a positive attitude towards future visits.
Excellent Pediatric Dental Care in Niles-Warren Area
At Lawrence Chen DDS, we take pride in creating a welcoming, relaxing atmosphere and offering the best-quality dental service from the moment patients enter our office. We have a team of dedicated dental professionals who provide gentle, patient-oriented care. Click here to set a pediatric dental exam with a member of our fantastic dental team today!