When To Start Going To the DentistReston, VA

When a Child is Overdue for a Dental Visit

Many parents have not been informed of the importance of early dental visits. Parents who put off a child’s first dental visit, need to make sure to schedule a dental visit as soon as possible. It is also important to let the dental provider know that this will be the child’s first visit.

Tell the office team how old the child is and how many teeth they have. Provide background information about the child's diet and habits. If the child uses a pacifier or sucks their thumb, let the provider know. This data helps the dental team create a treatment plan. With the right background information, a dental provider can help the child catch up on their dental care.

The Benefits of Routine Dental Care

Regular dentist visits have many benefits. With frequent checkups, children can develop positive associations with their dentist. They learn the importance of good dental care and making oral hygiene a lifelong habit.

Dental visits are a great time to discuss daily hygiene habits like brushing and flossing. A dentist's supervision keeps the child on the right track. If the child has trouble sticking to a proper routine, the dentist can spot the problem. They offer guidance and support to help children improve their habits.

Regular checkups also let the dentist keep an eye on a child's mouth. If a problem develops, the dentist can provide rapid intervention. Early treatment can resolve the problem before it has a chance to progress. Delayed treatment often results in complex and painful dental issues.

Preparing for Dental Visits

Many toddlers are nervous about their dental visit. It is important to reassure children that the dentist wants to help keep their mouth healthy. Maintain a friendly, upbeat attitude about dental care. Keep in mind that if a parent seems nervous, children will likely reflect those feelings.

Some parents find it helpful to watch TV shows or read books that deal with dental visits. It may also be helpful for the parents to discuss their dentist visits with their child. Knowing what to expect helps children stay calm in the dentist's chair.

Before a dental visit, call the office and ask for preparation tips. The office team may want the child to brush and floss before the appointment, but some dentists prefer to work on an unbrushed mouth. The office team can explain the dentist's preference and will also inform the parent on the documentation to bring to the appointment.

Recognizing Dental Issues

Children should be regularly inspected for dental problems or signs of decay. Delaying treatment can allow the problem to worsen. Without care, the child may develop an oral infection or severe tooth decay. In worst-case scenarios, the child may lose a tooth, or the infection might spread. Many children develop cavities. They might find it painful to eat or drink, or their cheek might swell. Parents might also notice dark spots on their child's tooth. Report these symptoms to their dentist right away. If a child has a cavity, it must be filled right away to prevent further complications in the roots and bone.

Diagnosing dental problems in babies and toddlers can be tricky. Older children can let parents know they are in pain, but younger children may struggle to verbalize the problem. Parents can help by watching for changes in the child's eating or drinking habits. Tell the dentist if the child is doing more sucking, drooling, or chewing than usual. Always report any mouth injuries to the dentist right away. These can be signs of a serious injury or infection.