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Tips for your child’s first trip to the dentist
Posted 2/1/2013 Updated 2/1/2013
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by Lisa Esparza
377th Dental Squadron
2/1/2013 - KIRTLAND AFB, N.M. -- Your child's first dental visit is as important as their first words or steps. All parents want their children to have beautiful, healthy smiles that will last a lifetime. The first step to maintaining that healthy smile is the development of a thorough and consistent daily oral health care routine. Good brushing habits decrease the risk of tooth decay or gum infections as an adult. Semiannual visits to the dentist and dental hygienist are essential to provide basic preventive services, such as cleanings, fluoride treatments and sealants. Dental visits are an investment in your child's health care and minimize your child's need for extensive and complex dental treatment.
Babies will begin teething around 4 to 6 months and all 20 primary (baby) teeth are completely erupted by age 3. Usually, the bottom front teeth are first to appear through their gums. Children may experience gum tenderness, slight elevation in body temperature, or diminished appetite during this eruption phase. Once the tooth erupts, parents can use a clean soft cloth to wipe the child's teeth or a specialized baby toothbrush with ultra-soft bristles. Infants can develop dental plaque after drinking baby formula or breastfeeding. Daily removal of the dental plaque is the key to healthy teeth and gums. The best time to start taking your child to the dentist is between ages 1-2, but most dental offices will not schedule a cleaning until a child is 3.
During the child's first visit, the dentist will examine the child's mouth, teeth and gums for decay or other developmental concerns. The dentist will probably take X-rays to check the development of the child's teeth and look for cavities in between the back teeth (molars). Ask the dentist or dental hygienist to demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques, and whether the child can benefit from supplemental home fluoride treatments and/or dental sealants. Parents can also confer with the dentist about pacifiers, thumb-sucking, or atypical tooth development.
The child's first visit should be informative and fun. The best time to schedule a child's visit is in the morning, when the child is rested and more cooperative. Positive dental experiences evolve from positive communication about the upcoming dental appointment, and by parents setting a good example taking care of their teeth. Parents should not create unpleasant images of dental treatment or tell children about unfavorable dental experiences. Children are naturally curious and excited about this new adventure, unless someone they love or trust tells them otherwise. If you are unsure how to prepare the child for the first dental visit, call your dentist or dental hygienist.
The 377th Dental Squadron provides scheduled appointments/dental services for active-duty military only.
For more information about dental benefits for children, contact MetLife at 1-855-638-8371 or visit https://mybenefits.metlife.com/tricare. |
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