Family Dentistry Services in Morgantown, WV
Make Amy Everett DDS & Associates Your Child’s First Visit to the Dentist Office
We generally recommend that a child visit a dentist by the age of one, or within six months after his or her first tooth comes in. The friendly dentists and staff at Amy Everett DDS & Associates are here to make the best ‘first impression’ when it comes to emerging teeth and your child’s dental health. Call us for a convenient appointment for your child’s first visit.
What Happens at the Child’s First Dental Visit?
The first dental visit is usually short, and involves very little treatment. The visit gives your child an opportunity to meet the dentist in a non-threatening and friendly way. Some dentists may ask the parent to sit in the dental chair and hold their child during the examination. The parent may also be asked to wait in the reception area during part of the visit, so that a relationship can be built between your child and your dentist.
During the exam, your dentist will check all your child’s existing teeth for decay, examine your child’s bite, and look for potential problems with the gums, jaw, and oral tissues. If indicated, the dentist or hygienist will clean any teeth and assess the need for fluoride. The dentist or technician will also educate parents about oral health care basics for children, discuss dental developmental issues, and answer any questions.
Family Dental Topics to Discuss with the Dentist
The dentist may discuss any of these family dental topics with parents who have questions about these oral health concerns:
Good oral hygiene practices for your child’s teeth and gums, along with cavity prevention; Fluoride needs; Oral habits, such as thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, or lip sucking; Developmental milestones; Teething; Proper nutrition; Schedule of dental checkups.
Frequency of Family Dental Visits
Many dentists like to see children every six months, to build up the child’s comfort and confidence level in visiting the dentist, to monitor the development of the teeth, and promptly treat any developing problems.
When Should Children Get Their First Dental X-Ray?
There are no rules for when to start dental x-rays. Some children who may be at higher risk for dental problems (for example, those prone to baby bottle tooth decay or those with cleft lip/palate), should have x-rays taken earlier than others. Usually, most children will have had x-rays taken by the age of five or six. As children begin to get their adult teeth around the age of six, x-rays play an important role in helping your dentist to see if all the adult teeth are growing in the jaw, to look for bite problems, and to determine if teeth are clean and healthy.
You can trust the professionals at Amy Everett DDS & Associates, to provide the best quality family care to your young one. Call our office today.