Good Dental Health Starts Early

Many babies get their first tooth around six months, and that’s when you can start your child down the path to good oral health.

Ideally, a child’s first dentist visit should take place shortly after that first tooth comes in and no later than your child’s first birthday. A baby can be evaluated by the best dentists in Bedford to determine if any oral health concerns are present at an early age.

Some top dentists even specialize in working with pediatric patients and tailor their practices to this population, although all dentists are certainly capable of treating children.

Just like you do, your child should visit the dentist every six months. Children are particularly susceptible to cavities, and semi-annual appointments give the dentist a chance to treat cavities when they are small before they can do significant damage to the teeth. Establishing a routine of twice-yearly dental appointments also gives your child a good start on making this a lifelong habit.

Dentists may give children treatments like sealants or fluoride treatments to protect their teeth. The dentist can give you guidance on other factors that can influence oral health, including thumbsucking and an appropriate diet. (Here’s a hint: Avoid giving your child sugary drinks or snacks to cut the risk of cavities!)

As your child gets older, the dentist can make additional recommendations for orthodontic treatment or custom-made mouthguards for budding athletes.

Of course, a good home oral hygiene routine is also essential to your child’s oral health. This, too, can begin at birth, with the parent wiping the gums with a warm, wet cloth. When the teeth appear, switch to a soft toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste. Parents need to assist with brushing in toddlers, but eventually your child will gain the dexterity to brush on his or her own.

A lifetime of good oral health begins in infancy. Be sure to take your child to regular dental visits and develop good habits at home to get your child off to a good start in this aspect of health.