Dental care plays an immediate role in your baby’s life, and it’s important to establish a solid foundation. Infants are just as susceptible to oral health issues and tooth decay as adults are, and many parents make the mistake of delaying their child’s first trip to the dentist. Here’s what you need to know about their initial visit and how you can properly care for their teeth at home.

When Should You Schedule?

While each child is different, the American Dental Association recommends that your child sees a dentist within six months after their first tooth appears. The first tooth—the central incisor—usually appears when the baby is between six and 10 months old. An oral exam for a single tooth may seem like overkill; however, the exam isn’t simply about checking the baby’s tooth. During the exam, the dentist will check that their gums are healthy, the tooth has erupted correctly, and there aren’t any signs of decay or oral health problems. More importantly, they’ll go over at-home dental care, so you can best tend to your baby’s teeth between visits.

How Do You Care for Your Child’s Teeth at Home?

As soon as your baby’s first tooth appears, you’ll need to start brushing and flossing. You’ll also want to clean their gums after each feeding session—something that’s wise to begin from birth. You should also brush their gums each day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

A healthy diet is the key to avoiding cavities and promoting proper oral development. Avoid sugary, acidic, and processed foods. Your pediatrician can suggest high-quality replacements, such as fruits, vegetables, and calcium-rich dairy that will fortify enamel and improve gum health. It’s wise to enforce these habits for everyone in your family and stay in touch with your baby’s dentist between visits.

If it’s time for your baby’s first dental care exam, the team at Alaska Dentistry for Kids can assist. Based in Anchorage, this practice, led by Dr. Chris Coplin, provides comprehensive pediatric care. They offer everything from teeth cleaning and general care to root canal therapy and make comfort a priority for each patient. Call (907) 274-2525 to schedule an exam, and visit their website to learn more about their dental care services.