My baby only has one tooth!

Does she really need to go to the dentist yet?

This is a common misconception. Although your child only has one or two teeth on her first birthday, it is still necessary to bring her in for her first appointment. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have a dental check-up at least twice a year, beginning on their first birthday. It might seem like overkill to bring your baby to the dentist on her first birthday, after all, she only has one or two teeth. You might think it more logical to wait until she has a mouth full of teeth. However, bringing your little one to the dentist as soon as the first tooth erupts is actually more about establishing a dental home for your child, making sure that she has a dentist she feels comfortable with and getting her used to a regimen of regular visits. Her dentist will also monitor the growth and development of her teeth. There’s a lot more to it than just checking for cavities.

As she grows, checking for cavities and getting her teeth cleaned every six months becomes more and more crucial. In fact, tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease! Tooth decay in children is five times more common than asthma, four times more common than early childhood obesity, and 20 times more common than diabetes, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.  And, unfortunately, more children are getting cavities at very young ages. Mainly because, as research shows, regular dental visits may not be happening throughout childhood. A study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed that 56 percent of children had not visited the dentist in the previous year.

Regular dental visits help your child stay cavity-free, while removing debris that may build up on their teeth and irritate their gums. A dentist may also identify other changes in a child’s oral health, including orthodontic issues. Coupled with at-home dental care, starting your kiddo on regular dental visits, right from the get-go, will create a lifetime routine of excellent oral care.

Give us a call to discuss any concerns or questions you might have. You can also simply make an appointment for your baby’s first office visit, we’ll set up a plan that is right for you and your family. Along with your home-care, we will get your little one started on the path to strong, healthy, sparkly teeth that last a lifetime!