When should my child start seeing a dentist?
Your child should see a dentist when their first tooth is visible, and no later than his or her first birthday.
Why so early?
Kids who see a dentist early are less likely to have cavities or be afraid of the dentist later. With regular visits, preventive screenings may be all that is needed. Dr. Long will discuss your child’s diet, thumb, finger and pacifier habits and how you can help keep your child’s teeth healthy.
How can I help?
- Schedule a morning appointment, when children tend to be more cooperative.
- Don’t say things like, “It won’t hurt” or “I hated going to the dentist when I was your age.” Those remarks can make a child fearful.
- Treat the visit as a positive experience.
- Don’t offer bribes for going to the dentist or “being good” while there.
- Never use a visit to the dentist as a threat or a punishment.
Seal out cavities with sealants
What if you could protect your child against tooth decay? Now you can with a pit and fissure sealant.
Your child’s teeth have pits and fissures where their toothbrush can’t reach. Sealants are as simple as painting over the tops of teeth.
The sealant is then hardened, and the tooth’s surface is smooth and easy to clean.
Sealants can last for many years. Chewing ice cubes, crunchy candy or sticky foods can damage a sealant, so these things should be avoided.
Prevent cavities in your child’s teeth. It’s one of the best dental investments that you can make!
