subject: How Soon Should a Child Start Visiting a Dentist? [print this page] How Soon Should a Child Start Visiting a Dentist?
Three professional medical organizations (the AAPD - American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the ADA - American Dental Association, and the AAP - American Academy of Pediatrics) all recommend that children visit a dentist within six months of the eruption of the first tooth (or no later than the child's first birthday). Specifically, a pediatric dentist is an oral care specialist who is trained to treat children as small as infants (as well as special needs children).A young child's initial appointment is a great opportunity to introduce your child to the dental office and get them used to the idea of visiting the dentist regularly. Very young children will often be examined in the lap of the parent or with the parent next to them in the dental chair. These appointments are also a great help to parents and ensure that they have all the knowledge and tools to keep their child's teeth clean. What happens at an infant new-patient exam?-The pediatric dentist will review your child's medical history-The pediatric dentist will examine your child's mouth, gums, and any teeth that have erupted so far. -You can also expect your pediatric dentist to talk with you about your child's routines (with regards to nutrition and oral hygiene), as well as any other pertinent oral health issues or concerns. What if my child is older? A pediatric dentist has been specially trained to examine and treat children of all ages. Don't worry if your child is older -- it's never "too late" for him or her to visit the dentist for the first time. An older child's first exam is very similar to that of an infant but may also include a dental cleaning and x-rays to monitor the development of a child's mouth as well as to check for tooth decay. Why a pediatric dentist?Not only is the pediatric dentist specially trained to treat children from ages 0-18, but the pediatric dental office itself can be a very fun and comfortable environment for your infant or older child's dental appointments, especially when it is their first trip to the dentist. Pediatric dental offices are specially designed to meet your child's needs in a fun and age-appropriate way. They often include size-appropriate chairs and instruments as well as fun toys and rewards for the patient. Whether your child is an infant with just one tooth, or a teen with a mouthful of permanent teeth, regular check-ups with a pediatric dentist can help them on their path to a lifetime of healthy smiles.
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