Bringing your baby to the dentist for the first time can feel like a huge milestone, and might also be a bit confusing at first in terms of what to expect. Hinsdale Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry is here to give you an in-depth look at your baby’s first dental exam, as well as the reasons it’s an important step to take.
Does My Baby Need to See The Dentist?
This question comes up more often than not, because you might assume that an infant wouldn’t need to visit the dentist until they have erupted teeth, or more than just a couple of them. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months after the first tooth appears. Here are some reasons why:
- Avoiding Dental Problems: Early dental visits can help avoid common childhood dental issues such as cavities and gum disease.
- Practical Advice: You’ll gain important skills as a parent on how to properly care for your baby’s teeth and gums by consulting with our expert team.
- Tracking Development: Regular dental visits allow dentists to monitor your baby’s dental growth and identify potential concerns early.
- Building Comfort: Starting visits early helps your child become familiar with dental environments, reducing anxiety later.
Preparing for the Visit
There are some simple steps you can take to make your initial visit with Dr. Blair, our pediatric dentist, move along as smoothly as possible.
- Select a Good Time: Work with our office team to schedule the appointment when your baby is usually calm and rested to give them the best experience.
- Complete Forms Early: Fill out paperwork ahead of time to stay focused on your child during the visit.
- Comfort Items: Bring a favorite toy, blanket, or pacifier to help your child feel more secure.
What to Expect During the First Exam
If you’re feeling nervous ahead of your appointment, we want to reassure you that our Hinsdale Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry team frequently works with—and loves—pediatric patients. We’ve had a lot of practice in easing nerves and conducting the exam in a way that’s appropriate for our smallest patients. Here’s what you can expect:
- Warm Greeting and Initial Conversation: Upon arrival, our friendly team will warmly welcome you and your baby. We’ll take the time to learn about any concerns or questions you might have regarding your baby’s oral health.
- Gentle Oral Examination: This examination is usually conducted with your baby comfortably on your lap to help make sure they feel secure and at ease. Dr. Blair will conduct a gentle, thorough check-up to examine:
- Teeth that have appeared and their positioning
- Gums and oral tissues
- Jaw growth and bite
- Early indications of tooth decay
- Teeth Cleaning and Instruction: We’ll gently clean your baby’s teeth (if there are any) and demonstrate the best brushing methods suitable for infants. You’ll also receive valuable guidance on caring for your child’s teeth at home, including appropriate toothbrushes, toothpaste quantities, and other preventive tips against tooth decay.
- Optional Fluoride Treatment: If necessary, based on your baby’s age and risk of cavities, a gentle fluoride treatment might be recommended to strengthen tooth enamel and protect against decay.
Answering Common Questions
Finally, let’s address some common questions we get from the parents of our infant patients:
Q: Will my baby experience any pain during the first dental visit?
No, your baby’s initial dental exam with Dr. Blair is gentle and totally pain-free. Our team is specially trained to create a relaxed and comfortable experience.
Q: How can I keep my baby calm during the visit?
Like we said earlier, choosing the right timing for the appointment is a big part of keeping your child calm. You can also bring comforting items and maintain a calm demeanor yourself, as your relaxed presence is always one of the best tools to help your child.
Q: How often should my baby have dental check-ups?
Regular check-ups every six months after the initial visit are recommended to keep track of your child’s oral health and growth. This allows us to build a comprehensive picture of their oral health for years to come, which might be important if they ever need orthodontic treatment from Dr. Riccio.
Q: Should I clean my baby’s gums before their teeth appear?
Yes. Gently wiping your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth helps maintain oral cleanliness and prepares them for future tooth brushing.
Fantastic First Steps
It’s always smart to get off to a good start, especially where health is involved. We are grateful to the families we get to know at Hinsdale Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, and would love for you and your child to come visit us soon! Contact us to schedule your free consultation today.