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When Your Child Should Have Their First Dentist Visit

Even though your little one has brand-new teeth, it's recommended that they see a dentist for the first time by six months old, or whenever their first tooth appears. This initial visit will teach you how to care for your child's teeth to keep them healthy and free of cavities.

Even infants should undergo some form of dental care including cleaning their gums gently before their first teeth appear. Then, you can switch to a soft children's toothbrush to clean their teeth once they appear.

When your baby is still young, start by using a clean, damp, soft washcloth and gently rub your baby's gums. Do this after every breastfeeding or bottle feeding to help keep their gums clean. If it's easier, you can wrap the washcloth around one finger to help remove any bits of food in your baby's mouth.

Once some teeth appear, you may start using toothpaste on your child's teeth. Fluoride in toothpaste is completely safe for children and recommended by professionals. You should brush your baby's teethafter every feeding, every morning, and just before bedtime. 



Your child's first visit with the best pediatric dentist will allow them to assess the risk your baby might face for oral diseases. You'll also get thorough instructions that will help you practice good infant oral hygiene as your little one grows. After the initial visit, you should schedule your child for regular cleanings every six months.

When you're at home between dental visits, there are things you and your child can do to keep their teeth healthy. First, consider using a kid-friendly toothpaste that contains the ingredient xylitol.

This unique ingredient can make significant changes to the bacteria that cause cavities, protecting the teeth from damage. It's important to note that xylitol is toxic to animals, so make sure you keep these products out of reach of your pets. 

If your child plays sports at school, we recommend using a mouthguard. These sports accessories guard the teeth and help to prevent injuries during a variety of activities. While your child might resist at first, it's much better than dealing with a serious injury or trauma that results in invasive treatment later to correct the problem.



Of course, diet also plays a huge role in kid's dental health. Avoid feeding your child sugary snacks and drinks (except for the occasional treat). It's one of the easiest ways to avoid cavities while ensuring your child eats a healthy, nutritious diet. 

Dealing with Dental Anxiety

It's perfectly normal for children to experience some form of dental anxiety. Even many adults deal with worries whenever they have to go to the dentist.

Fortunately, seeing the dentist early isn't just the best way to support your kid's oral hygiene, it's also the best way to get your child acclimated to going to the dentist. 

One of the best ways to prevent this anxiety is to find a kind, child-friendly dentist who understands how to work with young patients. These specialists understand not just the importance of children's dental health, but also the many nuances associated with young children and their fears.



Talk to your child's dentist about their anxiety and ask them for help and advice. For example, they may help to ease fears by allowing your child to pick out their favorite tooth polish flavor or offer them a small toy at the end of each visit as a reward. While dental anxiety is a common problem, it should never prevent your child from visiting the dentist regularly.

Keep Your Child's Teeth Healthy

The best pediatric dentist will provide you with the right help and early dental care tips to ensure your child maintains healthy teeth for life. With a few early visits, some self-care tips at home, and a great dentist, you can set your son or daughter up for a lifetime of good oral health.



Dental Studio 4 Kids is committed to making dentistry a positive and enjoyable experience for your child, so click here to learn more today.