Your child’s baby teeth may be temporary, but they still need dental care. General dentistry for children includes regular check-ups so your dentist can monitor oral development and health. Below, the staff at South Baldwin Dental Associates, P.C., in Foley, AL, discuss what you need to know about early treatment.

Early Dental Care

Infant Teeth & Teething 

Baby teeth start to appear between 6-9 months. Monitor your child’s teeth early for signs of decay. This is especially important if they are bottle fed or tend to fall asleep with their bottle in their mouth. Sugars that naturally occur in milk can cause decay if left in contact with tooth surfaces for extended periods. Baby bottle decay will look like dull spots or lines on the teeth—be sure to check the back surfaces as well. Dentists recommend to check every week or so, and if you find trouble spots, make your child’s first general dentistry appointment. Primary teeth are important for chewing, speaking, and keeping the jaw aligned.  

Your Child’s First Appointment 

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends you bring your child to the dentist by their first birthday. The first appointment checks for any possible problems and decay and helps you learn good oral care for your child. This first visit establishes a dental home for your family and allows you to ask questions and understand the development of your child’s mouth and teeth.

Pediatric Dental Treatments

Beyond exams and wellness check-ups, your dentist may offer topical fluoride treatment to help prevent cavities, bonding for chipped or damaged teeth, or even root canals to save or preserve a baby tooth. 

Establishing good oral hygiene with your children starts as soon as they get their teeth. A good diet, oral care, and regular dental check-ups are all a part of early treatment and prevention of tooth decay. South Baldwin Dental Associates, P.C. provides the Foley, AL community with general dentistry, cosmetic procedures, and early care. Call (251) 943-1521 to book an appointment or visit their website to view all their services.