Early Dental Care

Baby teeth, also called primary teeth, are shed but are still essential for several reasons. Children need strong, healthy baby teeth to chew food properly, pronounce words correctly, and maintain space in the jaw for permanent teeth. That is why taking good care of the primary teeth is important to keep them clean and healthy.

Even before the first tooth erupts, your child's gums should be wiped gently with a wet cloth or gauze after every feeding. At the first tooth's appearance, begin brushing your child's teeth with water. Children older than two years should be supervised during brushing to ensure that only a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste is used, spit out the toothpaste rather than swallow, and rinse with water afterward.

Primary teeth, if not kept clean and healthy, can develop decay. This decay can lead to infection, which can damage permanent teeth. Tooth decay in infants and young children occurs when the teeth undergo frequent and extended exposure to liquids containing sugar.

To keep your child’s teeth cavity-free and avoid dental pain, please do not allow your child to fall asleep with a bottle containing anything other than water. When given to a child right before they fall asleep, milk, formula, and juice can remain in the mouth and cause tooth decay. If your child needs a pacifier between feedings or bedtime, be sure to give them a clean one. Do not give your child a pacifier dipped in honey or sugar.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children receive their first dental check-up by age 1. These first visits help your child become comfortable in a dental setting and allow us to observe dental changes from an early age. During the visit, we will get to know your child and help them feel comfortable in the office by explaining what will happen during the visit and showing them the tools we use to help keep their smile healthy.

We encourage parents to accompany their children during their visit. This provides an opportunity to see us working with your child and allows us to discuss dental findings and treatment needs directly with you. During the first visit, we will review your child's medical/dental health history, perform a thorough head and neck examination, and evaluate your child's teeth and gums. Digital radiographs (x-rays) are taken only if necessary. If no treatment is needed, the teeth will be cleaned, and a fluoride treatment will be provided.

We look forward to meeting you and your child for your first appointment!