As any parent knows, babies change quickly during the first few months of life—it can be hard to keep up! Take a look at your little one’s gummy smile because it won’t stay this way for long. In general, babies start teething around six months, but some start as early as three months old. It may be hard to picture your child in a dentist’s chair, but establishing good oral hygiene at an early age is critical. The cosmetic dentists at Tkatch Dentistry, in High Point, NC, work with patients of all ages, and they want parents to know it’s never too early to care for your child’s teeth.

As a general rule, a child’s first visit to the dentist should happen before the age of one, roughly six months after you see the first tooth. Tooth decay can happen at any age, and scheduling a dental exam early is helpful for both parents and babies. Mom and Dad will learn how to clean their little one’s teeth and identify fluoride needs, while the child will acclimate to a dental office, reducing fear and anxiety in the future.

Here’s what to expect during your child’s first visit to the dentist:  

• Parental Involvement: If your child is under 36 months or three years old, you may have to sit in the dentist’s chair and hold them during the exam. For older kids, parents may be asked to sit in the waiting room to help facilitate a good relationship between the child and the dentist.
• Oral Exam: The dentist will carefully and gently examine your child’s mouth, checking the teeth, gums, jaw, bite patterns and oral tissues. They may also want to take X-rays to monitor development and identify any potential problems.
• Teeth Cleaning & Fluoride Assessment: If needed, your child will receive a gentle cleaning which includes polishing teeth and removing any sources of plaque. The dentist will also assess the need for fluoride treatments. For parents, this is a good time to ask a professional the best way to clean your child’s teeth.

The first visit to a family dentist should be a positive experience for everyone. You and your child should feel comfortable, and the dental team should always be available to address any of your questions or concerns.

Just like adults, kids need a cleaning and dental exam every six months. Make your child’s first visit a success—contact the compassionate and caring team of cosmetic dentists at Tkatch Dentistry. Call (336) 889-9916 to make an appointment, or visit the website for more information.