One of the most common questions that we hear from parents is, “When should I take my kid to the dentist for the first time?” The answer is usually earlier than people expect. The American Dental Association says no later than their first birthday or when the first tooth comes in.
The reasoning is simple, as soon as teeth appear they can form cavities. It is important to start off on good dental habits as soon as possible because they can make a lifelong difference. Too often people think baby teeth aren’t that important because they eventually fall out, but they do play a big role in eating, speaking, and guiding adult teeth into place. We are fortunate to have the opportunity to have a set baby teeth before our permanent teeth come in, so let’s utilize that chance to build good habits. Cavities in baby teeth can also cause pain and lead to long term problems if left untreated.
The good news is that keeping kids’ teeth healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. Brushing twice a day with appropriate toothpaste, limiting sugary drinks and snacks, and keeping regular dental checkups are the biggest steps parents can take. One thing I always remind families is that sugary drinks are one of the biggest troublemakers for kids’ teeth. Juice, sports drinks, and soda can all increase the risk of cavities. Sugar free options are available, and one great trick is to water down any juice that you give to your kids on top of limiting the frequency.
It’s also important to make dental visits feel positive and normal. Kids pick up on their parents’ attitudes, so keeping things relaxed and encouraging can help children feel comfortable at the dentist. The absolute worst thing any parent can do for their child’s long term dental health is create the idea that the dentist is scary. We know that it’s not the most fun place to be, but I have seen first-hand the results of avoiding the dentist and putting off dental care due to fear and it is always better to be proactive.
As a local dentist, I love making sure that kids build healthy habits and confidence in their smiles early on. A little proactivity now can save a lot of time, stress, and discomfort down the road.
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