Why It Is Important To See A Dentist When Your Child’s First Tooth Shows Up

Babies are fun and easy to celebrate. They are always hitting different milestones and experiencing a lot of firsts. From their first steps to their first words, parents are always looking forward to their child’s firsts. But with each first comes a new set of things to worry about. When your child takes their first steps, you have to worry about baby-proofing the house. When they get their first tooth, you have to worry about taking care of their teeth.

Your baby’s oral health may not be the first thing on your mind when their first tooth shows up or even when they begin teething, but your baby’s dental health needs to start early on. At Thornton Kids Dentistry, we are a pediatric dental office that can help ensure your child’s teeth are healthy throughout their entire childhood.

In this blog, we are going to talk about the importance of visiting a dentist when your child’s first tooth appears. Read on to learn more and schedule an appointment at Thornton Kids Dentistry today!

Their First Dental Appointment

As a parent, especially a new parent, it can be hard to know when certain things should happen in your child’s life. When should they start talking and walking? When should their first dental appointment be? According to the Association of Pediatric Dentists, your baby’s first dental visit should occur once their first tooth or teeth begin to emerge or by the time of their first birthday.

It may seem early or strange to have a dentist look at a single tooth or no teeth, but it is important in ensuring your child’s oral health looks good. Take your child to the dentist this early can help ensure your child does not have any early signs of gum disease or tooth decay. It can also help ensure that their teeth are developing properly and will erupt properly.

If your child’s first tooth comes in at six months, be sure to schedule their first dental appointment right away, rather than waiting until they are one.

Tooth Decay In Children

It may come as a surprise, but tooth decay is common in children. In fact, according to Children’s Dental Health, tooth decay is the most common childhood disease. However, it is actually very easy to prevent. Scheduling regular dental appointments for your child starting at one year or the appearance of your child’s first tooth is a great way to ensure that they do not experience tooth decay or other dental issues.

Oftentimes, parents will not bring their child to the dentist until they are about three or four. At this point, many children already face cavities and tooth decay. These issues can easily be prevented if you start dental checkups early!

What To Expect

If this is your first child, you may not really know what to expect. Your little one’s first dental appointment will be similar to yours. Your baby’s teeth or tooth will be examined and cleaned. They will show you how to properly care for and clean your child’s teeth. And you will be recommended different baby oral care products. The dentist will look for tooth decay, give you any information and let you know if there is anything to be concerned about and answer any questions you may have. There is nothing extremely special about your child’s first dental appointment besides that it is a first and can help set them up for healthy dental habits!

At Thornton Kids Dentistry, we can make sure that your baby’s first dental appointment is easy and fun! Our pediatric dental office is designed to make sure kids don’t view the dentist as a scary place. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more! Remember to schedule a dental appointment when your baby’s first tooth shows up or when they turn one, whichever comes first.