One of the top 10 questions Dentistry.com is asked by parents is “When should I bring my child in for her first visit?”
The answer depends on who a parent asks. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child first see a pediatric dentist by his or her first birthday but many dentists advise waiting until a child is three years old, believing that the appointment is a waste of time until then.
Even before a child visits the dentist for the first time, there is much to learn about proper dental care, baby teeth and how to care for a young mouth.
Here, then, are the answers to a few commonly asked questions, insight that may just help parents of young children find greater peace of mind when it comes to taking care of a little one's dental health.
When Should Proper Dental Care Begin?
Kidshealth.org reminds parents that just because they can't see their child's teeth doesn't mean they aren't there. Teeth actually begin to form in the second trimester of pregnancy. At birth, a baby has 20 primary teeth, some of which are fully developed in the jaw.
Why are Baby Teeth Important?
Primary, or "baby" teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, but they serve as placeholders for permanent teeth.
Using a Toothbrush or Washcloth?
Running a damp washcloth over a baby's gums following feedings can prevent buildup of damaging bacteria. Once a child has a few teeth above the gums, parents can begin to use a soft child's toothbrush or rub them with gauze at the end of the day.
Once teeth erupt, a parent should begin to brush a child's teeth twice daily (morning and evening) and floss between the child's teeth once every day as soon as two teeth touch each other.
When Should Toothpaste be Introduced?
Most pediatricians agree that children can begin using a pea-sized amount of non-fluoride toothpaste once a baby reaches his or her first birthday. Wait until a toddler is at least three years-old – when he or she is old enough not to swallow the toothpaste – before introducing the fluoride kind.
Do Babies Need Fluoride Supplements?
Although a baby isn't using a fluoride toothpaste, sufficient fluoride levels should be attained by drinking tap water. If a family's tap water isn't fluoridated or if a child doesn't drink tap water, a pediatrician can provide a prescription for fluoride supplements once a baby is six months old. he should get enough fluoride – important for preventing tooth decay – from drinking tap water.
How to Help Avoid Cavities?
After a child's first teeth break through, parents should provide fruit juices (not to exceed one cup per day) during meals only. Carbonated beverages should be excluded from a child's diet. Infants should not be placed in bed with a bottle containing anything but water.
What's a Pediatric Dentist?
Think of pediatric dentists as the pediatricians of dentistry. They have received two to three years specialty training following dental school, and are primary and specialty oral care providers for infants and children through adolescence.
What to Expect at a Child's First Dental Visit?
Whattoexpect.com tells parents to expect a first dental visit to be short and informal – more of a meet and greet for a child and the dentist. Depending on the child’s age and comfort level, a parent may hold the child on her lap when the dentist gently examines the baby's mouth. The dentist and his or her staff will likely introduce a child to the chair, explain the various instruments and sounds they make and ensure the child is comfortable with the process.
Take Care of That Smile
Proper and early dental care will ensure that a child grows up maybe not loving the dentist but at least not fearing the experience. With a colorful toothbrush and yummy tasting non-fluoride toothpaste in hand, older babies and toddlers are armed with the tools to help them on their way to a lifetime of happy smiles and healthy gums.
Amanda Griffith - Amanda Sina Griffith, principal of Bumble PR, has planned and executed media relations and PR campaigns for more than 10 years. ...
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