WHEN TO TAKE YOUR CHILD TO THE DENTIST FOR
THE FIRST TIME
This is a common question I receive from
parents. The dental environment can often be a little daunting for very young
children and it is important to not build any fear of this. If a child is to
have a bad dental experience in their younger years it will inevitably lead to
a longer term dental phobia that is easily carried into adulthood.
Although uncommon, it is not unusual for
babies to be born with teeth. Otherwise your baby will develop teeth several
months after birth. This is often a traumatizing and tiring experience for both
baby and parents! Once these teeth it is very important to keep them clean. Buy
children’s toothpaste to clean them. This has a much lower concentration of
fluoride than adult toothpaste and is safe for their teeth and mouths.
Make sure your child only ever drinks milk
or water and never ever give them sugary or fruit drinks in their bottles!!
This can cause extensive damage and decay to their teeth. Normally by 2 years
old they are ready to visit the dentist for the first time. It is advisable
that they come along prior to this when you have your regular check ups so that
become used to the environment.
Their first visit will often be very quick
and straightforward and only involve a quick count of their teeth. All the same
we will aim to make this a pleasant and happy experience so that they build no
fear for future visits. Often you have children that flat out refuse to be
examined. Lots of tears and defiance does happen so we will never push these
children into anything. If they say no, they often mean no! Its far better to
leave them be and have another attempt at their next recall visit. Forcing them
will only build up fears and phobias. If they have older siblings then taken
them along to their visits so they can see how easy the experience can be and
so they may aspire to be more willing for a check up next time.
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