The most common question we have regarding children is about what age they should start going to the dentist. We follow the guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry on when a child should first see a dentist. You should bring your child to see us when the first tooth comes through the gums or no later than their first birthday.
During the first dental visit, we will get to know your child and get him/her acquainted with the dental office. We also will evaluate the child’s dental health, as well as offer tips in good dental care for your child. Our goal is to have our youngest patients feel comfortable and happy about visiting the dentist!
For your child’s first visit to our office, we like to do a comprehensive examination. This includes looking at your child’s teeth along with the supporting structures of the gums. We will also address your child’s oral hygiene, as well as clean your child’s teeth. We will look at your child’s bite and will only take X-rays if necessary. This is the optimal time to ask questions about your child’s mouth and teeth.
Going to the dentist should be positive, and creating a memorable experience begins at home. Start by discussing the upcoming visit with your child to ease their mind. Make sure to let them know the dentist and team will explain each procedure and answer your child’s questions.
When discussing the dentist with your child, avoid using phrases that could create negative feelings such as needle, shot or drill. Our dental team uses words that have similar meanings, but are positive and won’t worry your child.
Check out these fun books to help your child prepare for their first dental visit:
Daniel Goes to the Dentist by Alexandra Cassel Schwartz (Adapted by), Jason Fruchter (Illustrator)
Peppa Pig: Dentist Trip by Scholastic
Sesame Street Ready, Set, Brush! A Pop-Up Book by Che Rudko (Author), Sesame Street
Help the Lion Brush His Teeth! by Sophie Schoenwald (Author), Grace Glowiak (Editor), Günther Jakobs (Illustrator)
Dora Goes to the Dentist by Random House (Author, Illustrator), Robert Roper (Author)
Yes, pacifiers have benefits during the first months of life. Pacifiers can provide comfort, prevent the development of finger-sucking habit and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). However, a prolonged pacifier habit increases the risk of middle ear inflammation and malocclusion including open bite and posterior crossbite. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends cessation of pacifier habit by the age of 3.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends pacifier shields that measure at least 1.5 inches across, have ventholes and are firm. All straps or cords that pose a safety risk to the child should never be used. Orthodontic pacifier designs (example: MAM pacifiers) have been linked with decreased development of malocclusion when compared to conventional pacifiers.
Pacifier disinfection is an important step since pacifiers can hold microbes that can lead to yeast infections. To clean the pacifier, place pacifier and allow it to boil in water for 15 minutes.
Parental supervision is always recommended for all children unable to expectorate:
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