When’s the best time for a child’s first visit?

Dental hygiene habits established at an early age are a good indication of how teeth will develop in adulthood. That is why the dental health of young patients should be taken seriously. How children feel at the dentist’s office as children is a good prediction as to how they will view treatment as adults. 

Early Intervention for Lasting Smiles

It is a lot easier to accustom children to dental visits at a very young age than to wait until they reach an age when phobias and resistance may set in. Parents also feel stress and anxiety at the dentist’s office, which children can sense. Early dental visits promote good attitudes in parents, so they can view the dentist as a partner and fellow team member in maintaining healthy smiles for their children. Dental professionals include parents in early visits to make visits as comfortable and relaxing as possible. 

The American Dental Association recommends children be seen by a dentist at age one, and early treatment includes valuable advice, such as how to:

• Avoid baby bottle tooth decay
• Keep babies gums clean
• Clean pacifiers
• Brush baby teeth
• Choose healthy snacks

Dentists also check the development of the mouth for health conditions that can affect speech and permanent teeth. These include:

• Thumb sucking
• Tongue and lip tie
• Tongue thrust
• Lip sucking

Baby teeth last for several years, and taking care of them ensures that permanent teeth stay healthy and descend properly.

Dental Care Enjoyed at Home

Parents can also begin making oral health a priority with children by sharing their enthusiasm for daily routines that keep teeth free of decay. Reading picture books, admiring images of appealing smiles, and singing songs while brushing can make dental hygiene a fun way of life. Teaching young ones about sugar and bacteria can also introduce them to the science behind keeping smiles free of cavities.

Professional and Compassionate Care in Scottsdale

Give Dr. Greg Pifer and Dr. Shari Aftahi a call for pediatric dentistry that is gentle and caring. They are a delight in helping families stay healthy. Dr. Pifer, Dr. Aftahi, and their team of dedicated professionals serve Scottsdale and surrounding communities with experienced and expert care.