When should I take my child to the dentist for the first time?
It is recommended that children go to the dentist when their first milk teeth begin to appear, after 6 months, although there is no rule.
It is important to make a thorough diagnosis and a treatment plan. Some dentists like to see children every 6 months to prevent cavities and other problems from developing. It also increases confidence towards the dentist.
The first visit to the dentist is usually short and involves very little treatment. This visit gives your child a chance to meet the dentist. It is important that parents do not enter the dental office during the review to create a relationship of trust between the child and the dentist. Except in those cases in which the children are very young, and they can help, the child will sit on top of his father or mother and thus the review will be carried out.
Milk teeth do not remain in the mouth forever. They begin to fall from 6 or 7 years of age to give way to permanent teeth,_cc781905- 5cde-3194-bb3b-136bad5cf58d_but it is still important to keep the milk teeth in good health, because these will be replaced by the permanent teeth that they will occupy left.
During the checkup, the dentist will check all of your child's existing teeth, examine the bite, and may detect possible gum problems, abnormal jaw development, and the oral tissues. If indicated, the dentist or hygienist will clean the teeth and assess the need for fluoride.
It is important to teach your child to brush their teeth at least twice a day, use non-fluoridated toothpaste, until the child knows how to spit out the toothpaste. The dentist also has a duty to educate parents about the basics of oral health for children and address some important issues such as:
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Good oral hygiene practices for your child's teeth and gums and the prevention of cavities.
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Need to apply fluoride.
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Oral habits (thumb sucking, tongue sticking out, lip smacking).
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Developmental milestones.
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teething
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Proper nutrition.