For new parents, watching babies grow is an absolute joy. During this happy time, find a compassionate family dentist to assist with your little one’s dental care. Here’s what you should know to help your baby maintain their oral health and develop a beautiful smile.

When Should Children First Visit the Dentist?

A child should visit the dentist when their first baby tooth erupts, which typically occurs when they’re six to 12 months old.

As soon as your little one has teeth, they need dental care to prevent cavities. Visiting the dentist by your child’s first birthday also helps ensure proper teeth development.

What Happens During the First Appointment?

During an initial appointment, the focus is on familiarizing your child with the process of having their mouth examined. The assessment takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

First, the dentist examines the little one’s mouth and jaw to identify any development issues. They also check for cavities in any baby teeth that have erupted. Next, they perform a gentle cleaning of the gums and teeth to remove any plaque and tartar.

Lastly, the dental team provides parents or caretakers with helpful tips on oral care moving forward. Home care may include cleaning the gums with a damp cloth or children’s toothbrush. If there are signs of cavities, the dentist may also provide food recommendations and bottle guidelines to help prevent decay in the future.

When your child’s first tooth erupts, schedule an appointment at Four Corners Dental Group. Led by Pete B. Higgins, DDS, they have practices in Wasilla and Anchorage, AK. Families rely on their offices for lifelong dental care in soothing, stress-free environments. Visit them online for more information on how their state-of-the-art services help ensure beautiful, healthy smiles. To schedule your child’s first appointment, call (907) 258-3384 in Anchorage or (907) 376-2790 in Wasilla.