Getting your child to the dentist early in their lives makes them more likely to be comfortable in dental treatments later on in life.
Though it might seem simple to some, there is a significant amount of confusion surrounding oral care for young children. Some people believe in early care, while others don’t make it a priority until the child is much older. Unfortunately, the latter can lead to severe health complications. The best strategy for a parent is to start practicing good habits and find a St. Louis pediatric dentist right away. Once you have your dentist picked out, you should prepare for your child’s first visit.
Take Them in at the Right Time
The rule of thumb in the pediatric dental community is that a child should see a dentist for the first time after either their first tooth or first birthday. While it may seem silly to take a child into the dentist when they have few or no teeth, it is a really good idea. What it does is ensure that your child’s teeth and jaw are developing as they should. Additionally, getting your child to the dentist early in their lives makes them more likely to be comfortable in dental treatments later on in life.
Practice Brushing and Flossing
Once your child’s first tooth comes in, you can start a preliminary oral health routine. It will look a bit different at different ages, but that generally means brushing with a soft bristle toothbrush and lightly flossing. If your child has no teeth yet, you can wipe their gums with a piece of gauze twice a day. These responsible practices will do two things when you go to the dentist. First, your child will have excellent oral health and get a positive review from the dentist. Second, they will understand what proper care is before the dentist ever explains it to them.
Record Oral Health Habits
The first thing you should record is brushing and flossing habits. This is something that the dentist will want, so it is best that you have that information on hand. Second, you should take stock of what your child eats. If they have a diet that is acidic or high in sugar, the dentist will want to know. Last, pay attention to any habits, like thumb sucking, that might affect oral health. Once you have all this information, you can give the dentist an accurate report.
Compile Any Allergies or Medical Conditions
Every time you see a doctor, they should ask you about any allergies or medical conditions you might have. The same goes for your pediatric dentist. Before bringing your child in, make sure you know this information.
Choosing the right dental office for your child is extremely important. If you choose wisely, you can start a relationship that will last for years to come.
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