There are varying recommendations as to when
the first pediatric dentistry visit should occur. The American Academy of
Pediatric Dentistry
recommends that all children should have their baby teeth looked at by a
pediatric dentist within six months of the eruption of the
first tooth or no later than one year of age.
The American Academy of General
and
Pediatric Dentistry recommends between 18 and 24 months of age
the child should have their
baby teeth seen, unless there is an
apparent problem. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a child be seen
by age three, or sooner if there is a need.
Although there may not be many
baby teeth to examine
at one year of age, the first pediatric dentistry visit can provide parents with valuable
information regarding care and prevention through education and counseling.
Infants can be infected with the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Many children
have decay in baby teeth by the time they are seven years old.
The infant oral health appointment will include:
- A review of the infant's diet and nutrition
- The need for fluoride supplementation considering dietary and other sources
of fluoride
-
Pediatric dentistry instructions for cleaning the
baby teeth and gums
- Discussion regarding pacifier, finger, or other oral habits
- Injury prevention and trauma
- Oral development and normal eruption patterns
- Risk factors for decay in the child's baby
teeth
Traumatic injuries to the mouth occur more often as the child progresses
through crawling, walking, and running. If the first visit has already occurred,
the parent has a doctor who is familiar with the child to call for emergency
pediatric dentistry care.
The sooner your child is acquainted with a pediatric dentist and experiences a
pediatric dentistry examination, the better for his or her overall perception of the dental
visit. The child's temperament will determine how the appointment goes. Do not
delay the first visit because you believe your child will not cooperate. You may
be pleasantly surprised!
Make the first pediatric dentistry appointment as early in the day as possible. Toddlers
are usually more rested in the morning. Try not to communicate your own fears,
if any to your child. Your interpretations and expectations are different from
your child's. Practice with your child's head on your lap. Depending on the
age, explain how he or she should open wide, talk about the little mirror, the
tooth counter, and Mr. Clean, who will make the
baby teeth shine.
Avoid words such as
hurt, drill, or shot. Do not expect too much from your child. The pediatric dentist will
manage the behavior with age-appropriate expectations. A favorite toy or blanket
can be taken with the child to hold. Some offices offer a "First
Visit" videotape to be viewed at home prior to the visit. The book, Going
to the Dentist, by Fred Rogers, is a great way to introduce the first visit.
Here's to a wonderful first pediatric dentistry visit for your little "First Timer!"
