How Soon Should You Plan a Dental Visit for Your Infant?

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AADP), it is a good idea to schedule your child’s first pediatric dental visit around the time the first tooth breaks through the gum, or at least by the age of one.

Pediatric dentists Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Sandra Oh at Apple Tree Pediatric Dentistry in Lawrenceville, GA explain when to take a child for their first dental visit and what happens during this visit below. Typically, for children two or younger, a "lap to lap" exam is performed. You’ll also have an opportunity to ask Dr. Kong and Dr. Oh questions about your little one’s dental needs and oral health during a consultation.

What happens at the first pediatric dental visit?

During your baby’s first pediatric dental exam, Dr. Kong and Dr. Oh will assess the following:

• The oral cavity to see if the eruption order and pattern are within normal limits
• If any cavities have developed
• Oral hygiene level and give recommendations on how to properly brush and floss
• Teeth alignment and determine if thumb sucking/pacifiers have caused alignment issues
• Any other dental/soft tissue anomalies in the mouth

After the exam, fluoride varnish may be applied to help protect your child’s teeth from cavities.

They will go over daily brushing and flossing tips to help prevent cavities and maintain the toddler’s oral health, so they can have a dazzling smile. The doctors will discuss when your child should undergo their first professional cleaning.

Children should have their teeth cleaned twice per year. A professional cleaning helps prevent the build-up of plaque and bacteria on your infant’s teeth, which can lead to tooth decay or gum disease. Cleaning also helps lift away any stains and tartar, so your child has a healthy smile.

During your baby’s first dental appointment, you can ask about the use of pacifiers and weaning. Our pediatric dentists will provide you with steps to help relieve your baby’s teething pain, which can make your infant cranky.

Creating a positive dental experience

Many adults and adolescents are afraid of the dentist, so they avoid going, which can impact their oral health. Taking your infant to a skilled pediatric dentist helps to establish a trusting relationship between the child and the dentist. They can start to view biannual dental cleanings and exams as a positive experience.

Schedule a pediatric dental visit in Lawrenceville, GA

We invite you to schedule your infant’s first pediatric visit before the baby turns one. Dr. Jeni Kong and Dr. Sandra Oh will sit down with you and your little one to carry out the exam and discuss any concerns or questions you might have about your baby’s teeth and oral health. They will also work out a future plan for cleanings and exams to help maintain your infant’s smile. Contact us to learn more.