As a parent you have so many milestones to balance out: first steps, first words, first day at school. However, there is one milestone that can be easily forgotten until the time it is too late; and it is the first dental visit of your kid. A lot of parents think that even baby teeth are not that important as they will fall out anyway. It is also among the most popular and expensive misunderstandings of dental care in paediatrics. The reality is that the health of the teeth starts much earlier than most individuals suspect, and making good habits at early infancy can truly change the well-being of the mouth of your child greatly in the long term.
The Golden Rule: First Tooth or First Birthday
The paediatric dentists and leading dental organizations recommend a child to visit a dentist not later than his/her first birthday or six months after his/her first tooth erupted, whichever comes first. Most infants get their first tooth at the age of four to seven months, and that is why going to the dentist in the first year of your life is not only rational but also highly suggested.
This visit is not only about examining teeth but it is about education, prevention and creating a good relationship with the dental service right at the start. When a child grows up being comfortable in a dental chair, there is little likelihood that he or she will be an adult with dental anxiety.
Why Baby Teeth Matter More Than You Think
The frequent question that is posed by parents is: Why does it matter whether baby teeth decay? They will fall out anyway. The fact is much otherwise. The dental care of baby teeth is essential because of a few reasons.
To begin with, the baby teeth serve as substitutes of permanent teeth. In case a baby tooth is lost too soon either because of its decay or some other damage, there might be a shift and crowding of the other teeth resulting in alignment problems and orthodontic treatment required in the future. Second, early childhood caries or tooth decay among children is among the most common chronic childhood conditions. It may lead to major pain, infections, eating problems, and even self-esteem and speech development.
What Happens at a Child’s First Dental Visit?
The very idea that one is going to take their baby or toddler to a dentist might be frightening. However, there is absolutely nothing to worry about the first visit, it is brief and educative. The kids’ dentist will usually check the mouth of your child to detect signs of premature decay, test their gums, check their bite formation, and test any habits such as sucking the thumb or using a dummy that may influence the formation of the teeth.
Additionally, the dentist will teach you how to brush your baby teeth and gums properly, the need in fluoride and give you some practical information about baby teeth care, about what to drink and how to cope with teething.
Warning Signs to Watch for Between Visits
You should not wait until you have a scheduled appointment when you notice any of the following:
Early signs of decay in your child are white or brown spots on his teeth and they must be evaluated as soon as possible. Having swollen or bleeding gums, having bad breath that does not go away, or your child complaining of pain in his or her mouth are also indications to make an appointment as soon as possible. If your child experiences dental trauma, i.e. a knocked or chipped tooth due to a fall, etc., visit a dentist at once.
Building Healthy Habits at Home
The best dental treatment in children begins at home way before the first tooth grows. After feeding, you can start wiping the gums of your newborn with the help of a clean damp cloth to eliminate bacteria. After the first tooth comes in, a soft-bristled infant toothbrush followed by the slightest smear of fluoride toothpaste – about a grain of rice – is used.
As your child is getting older, you can add more toothpaste to a pea-sized amount and strive at brushing your child two times a day. You should brush until your child is approximately seven or eight years old since a small child does not have the fine motor skills to brush independently. Restricting sweets and beverages, in particular, between meals, helps a lot in cavity prevention.
The kind of routine taught to your child at home reflects on the habits that he or she will follow in life. The less often the brushing and flossing are made a habit as regular as bathing, the more you are providing a basis of oral health in all their lives.
How Often Should Children See the Dentist?
Most children who have been checked in the initial visit have had check-ups after every six months. Nevertheless, your dentist can advise an increase in the frequency of visits based on the specific risk factors in your child. Children who are likely to have cavities, develop bite problems, or who have special health needs might need more attention.
Consistency is key. Frequent visits imply that problems are detected early, when they are easier and cheaper to treat, and your child is familiarizing and getting used to the dental setting.
Bottom Line
In matters that are related to the dental health of your child, it is all about picking the right practice. At Bayswater Dentist, we know that the attitude of a child towards oral health depends on how he or she feels about the dentist during his or her first visit. Our team of highly trained and friendly dental professionals focuses on paediatric dental treatment, which ensures the relaxed atmosphere and a soothing environment that puts children and their parents at ease.
Be it the very first check-up of your little one or the continuous support of your growing kid, our staff is ready to support you at all stages of the process and provide professional advice of a paediatric dentist according to the specific needs of your child.