When a child is born, the parents want nothing but the best for them. Within weeks after birth, a child is at the pediatrician to start caring for their health. Parents work hard to keep their children happy and healthy throughout their lives. One important factor in a child’s health is proper dental care. Early care and learning healthy habits can go a long way in maintaining children’s oral health.
Baby’s First Dentist Appointment
Many people choose a pediatrician as soon as a child is born, sometimes sooner. Parents should also start choosing a pediatric dentist for their child so that they are ready when the first tooth erupts. Early care helps prepare the child and parents in the proper methods for maintaining healthy teeth.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that parents take their infant to their first dentist appointment shortly after their first tooth appears, but no later than when they turn one. During this visit, the dentist will inspect the child’s mouth and jaw. They will also provide healthy tips to begin teaching the child healthy oral hygiene habits.
Instilling Proper Oral Hygiene Habits
Even as a baby, parents can begin teaching their children the importance of oral hygiene. During bath time, use a clean, soft washcloth to gently wipe clean their gum and mouth. As teeth appear, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, apply a pea-sized amount of toothpaste for children. Gently brush their teeth and gum at least twice a day.
As the child gets older, continue the practice by allowing them to brush their teeth with supervision. It is also important to practice proper oral hygiene for parents. If a child sees the parent brushing and caring for their teeth, it will reinforce the habits for them. It may be a good idea to have the whole family brush their teeth together before bedtime.
Regular Check-ups Throughout Childhood
Parents need to understand that once a tooth erupts, cavities and tooth decay are possible. Regular visits to the dentist allow early detection and even prevention of these dental issues. Even as an infant and toddler, these appointments promote oral health and allow young children to become comfortable with dental visits.
Early visits also allow dentists to provide treatments that may keep a child’s teeth healthy and strong throughout their lives. It also allows early identification of serious issues with the growth and development of young teeth.
Although many people dismiss baby teeth as not important because they are lost before adulthood, these teeth are vital for young children. They allow the child to learn to talk and eat properly as they grow. They also provide a guide for adult teeth to grow properly into place.
Common Pediatric Dental Treatments
There are many important treatments children receive at their regular dental visits. These visits should be made once every six months. During these visits, children will have their teeth thoroughly cleaned and examined. The child may also have X-rays taken to ensure the teeth and jaw are developing properly without issues.
Fluoride treatments are also common during childhood. Fluoride is important for protecting little teeth. As adult teeth appear, children can have sealant applied to these teeth. This sealant helps to protect teeth from bacteria and prevent decay.
As the teeth develop, a dentist can monitor their growth and ensure the teeth are coming in healthy and straight. If issues arise, the dentist can refer the child to an orthodontist for braces or other devices to help correct the issue. These and other treatments are all provided to ensure a child’s teeth stay healthy and strong throughout their lifetime.