Dental problems don’t wait for adulthood – they can strike at any age, even causing problems for toddlers and preschoolers. Dental Decay and Gum Inflammation can impact mouths of all ages, so don’t put-off bringing your child to the dentist.
The First Dental Visit
Nobody feels good when they have a toothache – but imagine being in discomfort and having to go to the dentist for the very first time! Delaying an initial dental exam not only prevents health issues being diagnosed early, but it may lead to your child having to see the dentist under stressful conditions, when they (child) are in pain. It’s so much easier to deal with dental problems and treatment when a relationship has already been formed with the dental team and a child has developed a level of trust – and the best time to develop this trust is during a happy visit – when everyone gets to relax. Even though your child may not have any dental concerns; if they’re over the age of 3 and haven’t seen a dentist yet, it’s time to setup an appointment.
What Happens at a First Dental Visit?
We encourages parents to bring children to the dentist within 6 months of the first tooth erupting or no later than the age of 3. A child’s first dental appointment should be fun, easy and full of laughs so that future visits are looked forward to and a lifetime of good oral health is begun. Talking positively to your child about the dentist and how important it is to have their teeth checked will help prime a young child for having a dental professional look in their mouth. Playing dentist is one of the best ways to get your child used to the idea of mirrors, gloves and opening really wide – letting them be the dentist and clean your teeth can be all it takes to get them feeling good about a dental visit.
Unfortunately the Tooth Fairy has made a good income from rotten baby teeth. Giving your child the best dental health means bringing them to the dentist early and regularly so that healthy habits are formed.
