Your baby’s first dental visit is essential because it helps set the stage for a lifetime of good dental habits. Our team will check for early signs of cavities, gum disease, or developmental issues. Early visits also allow you to learn proper oral care techniques to keep your baby’s teeth and gums healthy as they grow.

A baby’s first dental visit is typically a simple and gentle checkup. Here’s what you can expect from our office:

1. A Gentle Examination: Our team will examine your baby’s mouth, gums, and teeth (if any have erupted) to ensure everything is developing correctly.
2. Cleaning: If your baby has any teeth, our team will gently clean them and may give tips on how to care for them at home. If your baby has no teeth erupting, we can help you determine why.
3. Parent Education: You’ll receive guidance on how to care for your baby’s teeth and gums, including tips on teething, brushing, and when to introduce fluoride.

The visit will be short, gentle, and tailored to make your baby feel comfortable. During the first visit, there will be no needles or invasive procedures because the focus is on education and prevention.

Before your baby’s first tooth erupts, you can clean their gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. Once the first tooth comes in, you can start brushing gently with a soft toothbrush and water. Avoid using toothpaste until your baby is old enough to spit it out (usually around age 2). Tooth decay can occur as the first tooth appears, so good oral hygiene should start early to promote healthy teeth and gums.

If you notice any signs of discomfort, unusual bumps, or difficulty with teething, it’s always best to contact our office. Early intervention is crucial to preventing problems from worsening. Call us if you’re concerned about your baby’s teeth or gums before their first appointment!

After your baby’s first dental visit, it’s important to maintain a routine of regular checkups every six months. Our pediatric dentist will monitor your baby’s teeth, growth, and development and ensure that their oral health is on track.

In addition to brushing and flossing, diet is essential for keeping teeth and gums healthy. Encourage your toddler to eat foods good for their teeth, like fruits, vegetables, low-fat yogurt, and cheese; even though kids frequently like sugary snacks, it’s crucial to discourage them because they raise the risk of oral infections and tooth decay.

As your child’s teeth grow, watch out for early childhood caries, commonly known as baby bottle decay. This condition develops when a child’s teeth are exposed to sugary liquids for extended periods. Oral bacteria consume these sugars, producing acids that damage enamel and cause decay.

Avoid letting your infant sleep with a bottle that contains anything other than water to avoid baby bottle decay. Additionally, to lessen dependency on extended bottle use, encourage your child to switch from a bottle to a cup when they turn one year old.