Seeing your child smiling proudly or enjoying a big laugh is one of our greatest joys as a parent. A big toothy smile is a great way for them to share a silly joke with a friend or invite a new friend to play. As a parent, we can do our best to start our child off with a happy, healthy smile to enjoy all of life’s moments. Here are some important milestones for you to sink your teeth into to make certain your child is on the right track for a strong, healthy teeth.
- Meeting the dentist
- A trial visit is a great way to start a lifetime of good dental care. Visiting your dentist’s office before your child’s first check-up can be a great way for them to get used to the sights and sounds of the office. Meeting the dentist and sitting in the chair to look at the tools can provide a level of comfort and familiarity before the first exam.
- First Check-up
- Your child’s first visit to the dentist should be between the time the first tooth appears (5 – 8 months) and the time when all the primary teeth are visible (before 2 1/2 years).
- Schedule the exam at a time when the child isn’t hungry or tired so they are best prepared for a new experience.
- If you’re child isn’t cooperating there is no need to be embarrassed or surprised. Allow your child time to talk to the dentist and staff and try to overcome their fear.
- Appearance of permanent teeth
- Children should begin flossing at least once daily to remove food particles when permanent teeth being to appear.
- Dental sealants usually begin at this point, to protect the chewing surfaces of the teeth from decay.
- Your dentist will evaluate how the permanent teeth begin to come in and braces or extractions may be recommended at this stage.
- Damaged or broken tooth
- Knowing what to do in a dental emergency makes for a less scary experience for your child. Having your dentist’s phone number ready is a great way to be prepared.
- Your child’s dentist can assess the damage and provide immediate direction as to how to car for the tooth until you arrive at the office to have it checked.
- If you notice signs of decay or a difference in tooth appearance, call for an appointment to get it checked with your dentist.
Remember, preventative care is so important with dental care. By brushing and flossing daily and getting regular check-ups every six month, your child will be well on their way to good dental health.
