Many parents ask us a variation of that question. When do they need to schedule the first visit for their child? We recommend seeing a child after his or her first tooth erupts. In today’s blog, we’re going to talk about what you can expect from this first visit and follow up appointments afterward.
Scheduling The First Visit
The first visit, as we mentioned in the opening paragraph, occurs within six months of the initial baby tooth’s eruption. There is rarely any actual treatment during this visit, instead the dentist simply wants to examine the child’s mouth to make sure the teeth are erupting correctly and on schedule. Afterward, the dentist can begin scheduling six-month checkups and cleanings to help your little one maintain optimal oral health.
Checkup and Cleaning
Just like adults, kids benefit from preventive visits every six months. During each visit, we will carefully examine your child’s smile for signs of possible trouble, such as tooth decay and gingivitis. We can then treat the issue early and discuss improved ways of caring for his or her smile. We will also peform a dental cleaning, which involves removing all plaque from the teeth, which not only freshens breath and brightens teeth, but limits the risk of cavities and gingivitis. Another benefit of these visits? Children tend to have a lower risk of dental anxiety and gain a better understanding of how to care for their smile.
Amenities for Kids
We have a number of amenities to help children enjoy their experience at the office, such as blankets and pillows. We also have stickers, movies, and a play area with plenty of toys. There are also coloring books that educate kids about oral healthcare, and nitrous oxide sedation available for those with anxiety.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT CHILDREN’S DENTISTRY?
At Mai Dentistry, our team is ready to help children of all ages enjoy optimal oral health. To learn more about our practice, or to schedule your next appointment, call our Garland, TX office today at (972) 530-0552. For our patients who don’t speak English, our office is fluent in both Spanish and Vietnamese.