Parents often wonder when it's necessary to take their child to a family dentist for his or her first appointment.
Unfortunately, many mothers and fathers don't consider this question until well after the baby's first visit was needed.
They do this for many reasons.
Some think the child's lack of teeth makes a visit to a dental clinic unnecessary.
Others think that their baby's young age means they don't need the attention of a medical professional.
Whatever their reasons, parents too often neglect to give infants the oral care they need.
A child's first visit to a dental clinic should happen no later than his or her first birthday.
When a child turns one, he or she will usually have one or more teeth.
The best time to take your child in for his or her first appointment is when the first tooth erupts.
Scheduling an appointment at this time can ensure the child's development is normal, as well as allows parents to speak with a dental health professional about their baby's oral health.
Before a child can brush and floss on his or her own, it's essential to take oral care into your own hands.
A dental health professional can outline the steps you should take to ensure an infant's teeth are properly cleaned.
In addition, you can learn ways to help your baby through the painful process of teething.
Many parents dread bringing their child to the dentist due to the reaction oral care can elicit from young patients.
Young children don't understand why the visit is necessary, and their discomfort is often communicated through crying and protests.
The longer a child goes without being exposed to oral care, the more difficult the visit will be.
As a result, it's a great idea to start bringing your child in for care at an early age.
This will help them grow accustomed to the type of attention they'll receive during future visits.
To achieve a lifetime of excellent health, children need to develop positive relationships with dental offices, and it's a good idea to develop a strong foundation early.
Over the first few years of his or her life, your child's teeth will undergo a number of transformations.
Once they have all erupted, it's important to do what you can to keep all primary teeth in place.
Of course, children are known to lose teeth here and there while playing.
Ideally, these teeth will naturally fall out when the time is right, but poor oral care can make it necessary to extract a tooth at an earlier time.
Your family dentist can help you understand what to expect as your child ages.
With proper attention from a family dentist, your son or daughter will be much more likely to develop a healthy smile.