When is the Right Time for Your Child’s First Dentist Appointment?

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When Do Children First See Dentists?

With a never-ending flow of information and opinions that conflict and contradict each other, it can be difficult to know what choices to make. When it comes to finding the right dental care for your child, navigating through all the available information (as well as misinformation) can be overwhelming.

The First Appointment should be sooner than you think!

It is generally recommended that children visit the dentist soon after their first tooth begins to emerge, usually around 6 months of age or by their first birthday. Introducing your little one to the dental office could have numerous benefits in terms of both oral health and overall well-being. Additionally, it can help establish a positive attitude towards dentists and dental care from an early age, making your child less likely to be apprehensive about future visits.

There could be some early problems to address as children often suffer from fairly significant conditions. Tooth decay or cavities can result from baby bottle use, poor dental hygiene; tooth sensitivity is also experienced, as well as problems from thumb sucking.

What to Expect from the First Visit

Although no dental procedures will be performed during the first visit, it is best to get your child acclimated to visiting a dentist early. This allows the dentist to anticipate any future trouble and gets the child used to good dental hygiene.

The first exam is quick but effective. Most of this visit is about getting your child comfortable with the environment and caregivers. We will give them a ride in the dental chair, and play around with tools. We will also, with the help of the parent, lay the child back in their arms, to examine their mouth and teeth. We will be able to advise on oral hygiene care, as well as alert the parents on issues that may arise in the near future so that we can carve out a path to perfect oral health.

An Early Visit is Important, and so is Preparing Your Child

Indeed, baby teeth will eventually fall out; however, visiting a dentist early is still highly recommended to ensure your child’s dental development stays on track. This type of preventive care can help detect any possible issues before they become more serious problems. Additionally, visiting a dentist can provide children with valuable education about proper and effective oral hygiene habits they can carry throughout their lives.

Visit Yaletown Dentistry

Conveniently located in Yaletown, in downtown Vancouver. We pride ourselves on gentle and painless dental services for kids. Check out our Kids’ Corner page! Go online, book an appointment for you or your child, or call us.

 

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About Yaletown Dentistry

Yaletown Dentistry, established in 1999, is committed to providing quality oral health care. We are independently owned and operated, and committed to excellence in dental care. 

We use the latest technology and continually update our techniques and procedures to ensure the best care for our clients.

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