Having children opens a lot of learning opportunities for parents to keep their kids healthy. The development of your baby’s teeth is one of the crucial stages of their growth. It is also when you will start asking the following questions:
What age should my child start going to the dentist?
Children should start visiting the dentist soon after their teeth begin to appear. Many children are ready to see the dentist between 2 to 3 years old. Even if there are no issues, the lifelong habit of going to the dentist should start early on.
What will happen at my child’s first dental visit?
Here’s what you can expect on your baby’s first dentist appointment. Our hygienist and dentist will:
- Count your baby’s teeth
- Check for cavities and other possible dental conditions
- Clean the teeth and gums
- Introduce healthy oral habits like brushing their teeth
- Make a good impression so they won’t be afraid of going to the dentist
Your child’s first dental appointment is also a perfect opportunity for parents to ask questions and learn about teaching good habits to their kids like:
- No bottles in bed
- No soda or sugar juices
- Brushing twice a day
- Using kid’s flossers
Your dentist may also recommend your child to have an oral x-ray to see early signs of dental conditions and prevent them as early as possible. Children can normally have x-rays as early as 4 or 5 years old.
What type of toothpaste should I use for my toddler?
You can use a soft washcloth to clean their teeth and gums until your child reaches 18 months. Between 18 months and 3 years of age, it is recommended to use a training toothpaste or low-fluoride toothpaste. When he or she reaches the age of 4 to 5 and knows how to rinse and spit, he or she will be ready for a fluoride children’s toothpaste.
What can I do to make the first visit easy for my child?
Refrain from scaring or using jokes such as “the dentist will pull all of your teeth”. Also, avoid telling them stories about your bad dental experience. Using the image of dentists to discipline your kids can train their mind that dental practices are places to be scared about.
Instead, make good stories about why dentists are their friends that will keep their teeth healthy. You may also highlight the cushy chairs with warm blankets and friendly dentists who love to see them and keep them safe.
Have your child’s first dental appointment at LandMark Dentistry
LandMark Dentistry provides pediatric dental services in Charlotte, Matthews, Mallard Creek, and Wesley Chapel. We recommend parents to schedule a separate day for their child’s first appointment and another date for their own dental appointment.
Our young patients don’t have enough patience and will not do well waiting for over an hour for their parents. They may also hear about their parent’s issues and can become scared seeing procedures like gum grafting, extractions, and implants.
If your child needs dental treatment, our dentists will provide the most educated approach and options possible. Oral medications are also available and designed for children to help them relax during their first visit.
Bringing kids to the dentist can be a struggle for some parents, let us know how we can help by contacting us now.
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