Why Babies need to go to the dentist at age one?
By GEMA ISLAND – Island Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics
If you are a mom like me, you definitely want the best for your child. Cavities can appear on baby’s teeth as early as age one to two. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and American Dental Association recommends a child should visit a dentist after the first tooth appears and not later than age one. By age three, 28% of the children have one or more cavities. By age five 50% of children have one or more cavities.
That first visit is important because it allows the dentist to identify any potential dental problems early on and provide guidance and preventive care. The dentist can also give you information related to baby bottle tooth decay, infant feeding practices, teething, and evaluation for tongue or lip ties. Taking your child early to the dentist will help make them comfortable with the dental experience such as noises, instruments and equipment.
Dr. Island recommends, if possible, bringing your baby or toddler in the morning when they are fresh and alert. Try to avoid scheduling appointments close to napping time. Your child will sit on your lap and the dentist will perform a knee-to-knee exam or lap exam. At that point the dentist will examine teeth, gums, jaws and review diet and a prevention plan or treatment plan in case of any findings that need care right away.
Dental caries is a preventable disease that can lead to pain, infection, and serious life-threatening events if left untreated. Early visits can prevent suffering and emergency dental services. Baby teeth are as important as permanent teeth. Dr. Island and her team are welcoming new patients and would be happy to give you and your children a positive experience and build long-term relationships with your family.
Dr. Island is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist, graduated from TUFTS University, she specializes in sedation dentistry for kids, laser dentistry, and loves helping special needs children to have a positive experience at the dentist.
