As a parent, you’re always on the lookout for important milestones, like crawling, walking, and running. Your child’s first tooth is also a big event and ensuring they receive the proper dental care is essential to future development. That’s why the professionals JP Larson, DDS, and Stephen J. Larson, DDS, offer the following information to their patients in Cincinnati, OH, which will help their kids achieve optimum oral health for life.

Why Baby Teeth Matter

Although baby teeth eventually make way for the permanent set, ensuring they’re healthy is still important. For instance, baby teeth are integral to your child’s ability to eat and speak. Additionally, when a tooth is compromised by cavities, the adult teeth can also be affected. Oral crowding occurs when an adult tooth tries to fit in among baby teeth, which can happen when a baby tooth is lost prematurely. 

When It’s Time for the First Visit

Dentists recommend having your child’s first dental exam no later than their first birthday. You can also bring your child to the dentist at the eruption of their first tooth, which usually occurs around six months. The first dental care visit is important for a few different reasons. Firstly, it will inform you of any issues in your child’s dental development. It will also normalize the experience for your child, which makes anxiety about visiting the dentist less prevalent.

Also, during your first visit, the dentist can offer recommendations on how to care for your child’s teeth. The earlier you establish good dental habits, the better, and at-home care is crucial in this regard. Your child should be brushing twice a day using an appropriate toothbrush and toothpaste. You can also work to set a good example for your child by brushing twice a day and flossing once. Until your child is old enough, supervision is suggested to make sure their dental routine is effective.

The dentists at JP Larson, DDS, and Stephen J. Larson, DDS, work to create a positive association for children on their first visit. This dental care practice also offers a number of other treatments to Cincinnati patients young and old, including orthodontics, dental implants, and preventive care. If you’d like to schedule your child’s first exam, call (513) 528-1223 today. You can also visit them online to conveniently request an appointment for either you or your child.