When Should a Child visit the Dentist for the 1st time?
The American Academy of Pediatrics, as well as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend that a child be seen by a Pediatric Dentist by the age of one, or no later than 6 months after the first tooth arrives.
The most important reason to start a child's dental care this early is prevention. As soon as a tooth erupts into the mouth a cavity can form. Cavities are caused by bacteria secreting acid that erodes the tooth. The bacteria feed on any substance that can break down into sugar. This includes breast milk, and formula!
During the first visit a Pediatric Dentist will discuss medical history, nursing history, as well as the parents dental previous dental history. The bacteria that causes tooth decay is transferred from the parents to the child, and a parent with poor oral health will transfer significantly more bacteria to their child dooming their child to more cavities.
The child will then be examined, usually in a knee-to-knee position on the dentists and parents lap. It is quite alright and expected that the child cry and make noise--we can see so much better when they are open wide ;-). during the exam the Pediatric Dentist will check for any abnormalities in growth and developement as well as help the parent understand what is going on in there. Brushing and cleaning the baby's mouth will also be discussed. Brushing should begin with the first tooth. Pacifier habits, thumb sucking, bottle feeding and nursing will also be discussed, and any questions that the parents may have are answered after the exam.
The earlier the first dental visit, the better chance there is to prevent dental problems. As always if you have any questions or comments please let me know.
Scott C. Peters, DMD
