Protect Tiny Teeth with Early Care
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that parents schedule their child's initial "well-baby" dental appointment around six months after the first tooth emerges, but no later than their first birthday.
While this might seem surprisingly early, the occurrence of tooth decay in infants and toddlers has been increasing in recent years. Untreated tooth decay and early cavities can be excruciating and can also create a foundation for poor oral health later in childhood.
A pediatric dentist specializes in child psychology and behavior and should be seen as a valuable resource for information, support, and guidance. Often, they can offer strategies to help eliminate unwanted oral habits (like pacifier use and thumb sucking) and guide parents in establishing a good daily oral hygiene routine for their child.
What Dental Issues Can Affect Babies?
A baby is susceptible to tooth decay as soon as their first tooth appears. During the initial visit, the pediatric dentist will help parents develop a preventative plan to protect the teeth and demonstrate the proper way to brush and floss infant teeth.
Specifically, infants who consume breast milk, juice, baby formula, soda, or sweetened water from a bottle or sippy cup are at high risk for early childhood caries (cavities). To combat this, the pediatric dentist advises parents against filling cups with sugary drinks, dipping pacifiers in honey, and transferring oral bacteria to the child through shared utensils or cleaning pacifiers in their own mouths.
Importantly, the pediatric dentist can also assess and balance the infant's fluoride intake. Too much fluoride between the ages of one and four can lead to fluorosis (white spots on the teeth) later in childhood, while too little fluoride can make young tooth enamel more prone to decay.
What Happens During the First Appointment?
Pediatric dental offices are designed to be fun and engaging for children. All staff members are specifically trained to communicate effectively with infants and young children.
During the first visit, the pediatric dentist will advise parents on establishing a good oral care routine, ask about the child's oral habits, and examine their emerging teeth. The dentist and parent will often sit knee-to-knee for this examination, allowing the child to see the parent always. If the infant's teeth appear stained, the dentist may clean them. Often, a topical fluoride treatment will be applied after cleaning.
What Questions Might the Pediatric Dentist Ask?
The pediatric dentist will inquire about current oral care practices, diet, the child's overall health, their oral habits, and their current fluoride intake.
Once these questions are answered, the pediatric dentist can provide guidance on the following:
- Preventing accidents that could harm the mouth.
- Incorporating xylitol and fluoride into the infant's diet.
- Selecting an ADA-approved, non-fluoridated toothpaste for infants.
- Choosing an appropriate toothbrush.
- Selecting an orthodontically sound pacifier.
- Proper head positioning during tooth brushing.
- Facilitating the transition from sippy cups to regular drinking glasses (around 12-14 months).
- Addressing fussiness during oral care routines.
- Establishing a bedtime routine that is free of drinks.
- Maintaining healthy dietary habits.
- Minimizing the risk of tooth decay.
- Reducing the intake of sugar and carbohydrates.
- Understanding teething and developmental milestones.
New Patients & Emergency Appointments Welcome!
