Keeping your child’s smile strong and healthy helps ensure a good quality of life for them. While at home dental hygiene like brushing and flossing is important, it does not replace the need for professional dental care.
But when do you need to take your child to the dentist for the first time?
The answer surprises most new parents. Here’s everything you need to know about early Children’s Dental visits.
When to Bring Your Child to the Dentist For the First Time
The American Dental Association recommends that parents bring their kids to the dentist by the time they turn 1 year old or within 6 months of getting their first tooth, whichever is first. Many people hear this time frame and think it’s quite early. Indeed, most kids don’t have all of their teeth by this time and some may not have any teeth. However, these early dental visits are still really important for children’s long-term oral health.
Why Early Children's Dentistry Matters
Your child’s first few Dental appointments may be very quick and simple. The dentist will simply look over their teeth and evaluate their dental progression. If they have teeth then the dental team will also perform a Children’s Dental cleaning. However, these brief appointments are still really valuable:
- Prevent Dental Anxiety: Early dental appointments help kids feel more comfortable in the dental chair and can help prevent dental anxiety in children.
- Get Comfortable with Dental Care: while your child's first dental visits may be very minimal later down the road they may require more extensive treatment. Starting dental care early helps kids get comfortable and will make later care easier and less stressful.
- Monitor Oral Development: Visiting the dentist early and regularly gives the dentist a chance to keep an eye on your child's smile progression. Since kids are still growing, their dental needs can change very rapidly.
- Prevent and Treat Minor Issues Right Away: Regular dental cleanings and exams for kids help to prevent common problems like cavities, tooth decay, and more. They also give the dentist a chance to identify these issues as soon as possible and offer treatment before they become big problems.
Visit our children's dentist in Indianapolis, Carmel, and Danville today
No matter how old your child is, our team at Cornerstone Family Dentistry is here to help with their oral health needs. We help keep kids’ smiles clean, strong, and healthy for as long as possible. Our experienced dental team knows how to make dental care enjoyable and fun for kids.
Whether it’s your child’s first or 10th dental visit you can count on our team at Cornerstone Family Dentistry. Schedule your child’s next dental visit with our children’s dentist in Indianapolis, Carmel, or Danville today.
