When should my child see the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that every child see the dentist by age one or within six months of the first tooth erupting, whichever is sooner. Your child’s first visit will be a gentle introduction to the dentist for both the child and their parent. Most of the visit will consist of discussing strategies for keeping your child’s smile healthy. We will share tips for healthy dietary choices and strategies for keeping your child’s teeth clean at home. Additionally, we will discuss what to do if your child has trauma to his or her mouth. If any concerns are noted, more conservative interventions will be available.

How can I set my child up for a successful visit?
Dr. Villaseñor suggests scheduling your child’s first dental visit in the morning and avoiding times when your child is typically ready for a nap or hungry. At this appointment, your child will likely sit in your lap as the dentist uses a toothbrush to brush teeth and examines the mouth with a mirror. As your child becomes more comfortable in our office, we will introduce a more thorough cleaning and will discuss the appropriate timing for considering dental radiographs and applying fluoride varnish in the future.

Can I practice at home?
Yes! As soon as your child’s first tooth erupts, start brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Infant-sized brushes work well since there isn’t a lot of extra room in your child’s mouth. Brush your child’s teeth before bedtime each evening to keep them healthy. This will also prepare your child for their first dental visit since the toothbrush is the main tool that will be used at their appointment. Call our office today to schedule your baby’s first dental exam!