Children learn the value of good oral hygiene from their parents. If you take excellent care of their teeth, your children will learn to take excellent care of theirs. If you put high value on keeping your teeth healthy, your smile white, and your gums disease free, your children will do the same. So, it’s not only important that you teach your children about oral health, but that you demonstrate proper oral health habits. But when do you begin pediatric dental care for your child?
When Your Child Should Begin to See the Dentist
You should bring your child for their first dental visit when they turn two years of age. However, you should begin taking care of their teeth and gums from birth. When your child is only a few days old you can begin cleaning their gums by gently wiping them with a clean, damp, soft cloth to remove the residue from nursing. You can do this once or twice a day. Then, when your child’s first tooth erupts, you can begin using a soft-bristled toothbrush to keep it clean and white.
Their First Visit
During their first dental visit we will help to make your child feel comfortable in our office while we gently remove plaque and tartar from their teeth. At this point your child will not require X-rays, or any other treatments, but their first dental visit is important to develop their trust, to show them that their dental visits can be fun, and to teach them how important maintaining their dental health is. When your child is older and has more teeth, dental cleanings will include a thorough checkup with X-rays, flossing, and a fluoride treatment.
