As a parent, you want to do everything you can to ensure that your child grows up healthy and happy. That includes taking care of their oral health. But when should you start taking your child to the dentist? At McCue Dental Health, we recommend bringing your child for their first dental visit as soon as their first tooth appears or by the age of one. But why at this stage of development and not while they are a little older? Read on as we answer this question and more.

Importance of Taking Your Child to the Dentist at an Early Age

Bringing your child to a Wauwatosa family dentist early in their development is essential for various reasons, including:

Early Detection of Oral Health Problems

By taking your child to the dentist at an early age, any oral health issues can be detected and treated early, preventing future problems. The dentist can identify issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and cavities, which can affect your child’s overall oral health.

Establish Good Oral Health Habits 

It’s important to teach your child the importance of oral hygiene and establish good habits early. During the first visit, the dentist can educate you on how to properly care for your child’s teeth and gums, including brushing and flossing techniques.

Create a Positive Dental Experience

Introducing your child to the dentist at a young age can help them get used to the dental office environment. The first visit is usually simple, and the dentist will take their time to make your child feel comfortable and relaxed.

What to Expect During Your Child’s First Dental Visit 

Here’s what to expect during your child’s first dental visit:

• Meet the Dentist and Staff: The dentist and staff will introduce themselves and welcome you and your child to the office.
• Examination: The dentist will examine your child’s teeth and gums to ensure that everything is developing normally.
• Cleaning: If necessary, the dentist will clean your child’s teeth and gums to remove any plaque or tartar buildup.
• Discussion and Education: The dentist will discuss any issues they found during the examination and educate you on how to care for your child’s oral health.

When Should You Expect Subsequent Dental Appointments?

After your child’s first dental visit, it’s essential to continue scheduling regular dental appointments. We recommend scheduling dental visits every six months to ensure that your child’s oral health is in check. However, if your child experiences any oral health issues or concerns, you should schedule an appointment right away.

That being said, there are two major moments in your child’s oral health development where you really need to book an appointment for them. That is, when they are around age 3 and around ages 5-6. Here’s why:  

Around age 3, your child will already have their full set of baby teeth. Taking them to the dentist at this age can help address any unwanted oral habits and gain a better view of their oral health. Around ages 5-6, your child’s baby teeth begin to fall, and the permanent ones erupt. Seeing a dentist at this age can be beneficial to ensuring their teeth develop in their most optimal position and reduce the need for braces later on.

Want to Give Your Child the Best Start in Life? Come to McCue Dental Health

At McCue Dental Health, we offer a full range of pediatric dental services to help keep your child’s teeth healthy and strong. From routine checkups to fillings and extractions, we’ll provide the care your child needs to maintain a beautiful, healthy smile. If you’re ready to schedule your child’s first dental appointment, give us a call at (414) 456-1091.