The first dental visit is a milestone for your child. When they reach a certain age they should have their teeth cleaned and examined on a regular schedule, which is twice a year for most. But when should the first dental visit take place? Does it make sense to take a baby to the dentist? How important is early dental care? Learn the answers to these questions and more from the experts at Rio Rancho Children’s Dentistry.
Recommended Age for the First Dental Checkup
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within 6 months of the eruption of their first tooth. The general recommendation for patients of all ages is to schedule dental visits every 6 months. This came about due to the observations made by dentists regarding the average rate of plaque accumulation on teeth. As soon as a tooth is visible above the gumline, it is susceptible to plaque buildup and decay. This is why children should see a dentist within 6 months of the emergence of their first tooth.
Benefits of Early Dental Care
- Early detection of oral health concerns. If there are any oral health concerns present, such as abnormalities of the soft tissues or bone, early detection improves treatment outcomes.
- Reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Gum disease can develop before any teeth erupt, and once a tooth has erupted it can develop cavities from plaque buildup. Early dental care reduces these risks and promotes better oral health.
- Lower chance of developing dental anxiety. When children get used to going to the dentist from an early age, they are less likely to develop dental anxiety. The experience just seems normal to them since they’ve been going to the dentist for as long as they can remember.
- Early orthodontic evaluation. If there are orthodontic concerns, such as from thumb-sucking or pacifier use, these issues can be addressed early when it is still possible to reverse the damage.
What Does the First Dental Visit Entail?
The first dental visit is more of a meet and greet than a full dental cleaning. The idea is to introduce your child to the experience of receiving dental care. The mood is kept light and positive with no pressure placed on any particular procedure. If the child is comfortable, an oral evaluation will be conducted to establish a baseline for future dental checkups. If all goes well, a brief and gentle cleaning of any visible teeth will be performed.
Frequently Asked Questions About The First Dental Visit?
What happens if my child gets scared or upset during the first visit?
There is absolutely no pressure during the first appointment. We focus on making the experience fun and relaxing to establish positive feelings. It can help to bring a comfort item along, such as a favorite blanket or stuffed animal to help your child feel more comfortable.
What if my child doesn’t have any teeth by their first birthday?
Children develop at different rates. It is not unusual for a child to have no visible teeth by their first birthday. You can still schedule a dental checkup so that we can assess the situation and ensure that there are no oral health concerns that should be addressed.
Schedule a Visit Today
If your child is at least a year old or has had visible teeth for at least 6 months, it is time to schedule their first dental visit with Rio Rancho Children’s Dentistry. Dental visits are just as important as well-child visits to your pediatrician, as oral health is an indicator of general health and wellness.