Taking care of our teeth is important, and every child hits that milestone where they need to see a dentist. However, if you’re a first-time parent, you may be surprised to hear that children should start seeing a dentist before their first birthday. Noting a few tips for planning your baby’s first dentist visit helps ensure the appointment runs smoothly for everyone. Check out the information below so that you feel ready for the first appointment.
Know When To Book
You shouldn’t have to wait until your baby has a full set of teeth to start seeing a dentist. In fact, one of the top baby teething tips parents need to know is that you should plan that first appointment when your little one begins teething. If your baby seems fussier due to sore gums and wants to chew on everything, they’re likely in this stage, y’all.
Search for the Right Dentist
Your baby may not be able to see the same dentist you visit; it all depends on the dentist’s area of expertise. You need to make an appointment with a family dentist, specifically one specializing in pediatric and infant dental care. Babies and children go through different dental experiences than adults, and you’ll need to see an expert with the training for this.
Pro-Tip
I recommend searching for “family dentists in the area” if the office you go to doesn’t have a pediatric dentist. From here, read through reviews for the company and dental staff. Just like the doctor’s office, this can be a scary place for a baby, and you’ll want to see someone who brings things down to a child’s level.
Write Down Your Questions
Nearly every first-time parent has countless questions racing through their mind at the first appointment, and if your baby gets fussy, it can be easy to forget things. Rather than risking this happening, jot down everything you want to ask, such as:
- What kind of toothbrush and toothpaste should I use?
- When should their teeth grow in?
- How often should I brush my baby’s teeth?
- Do I need to brush their gums?
Asking questions is important, and there’s no incorrect thing to ask the dentist. I know some questions can feel like they have obvious answers, but it’s always better to ask the expert than assume anything. There’s no need to be afraid of acquiring additional information since this is your baby’s health we’re talking about, y’all.
Prepare Your Baby
The final tip for planning your baby’s first dentist visit is to get your baby ready on the big day. Pack their diaper bag with their favorite toy, teeter, and paci so that they have several sources of comfort if they feel scared in that big chair. This is a big milestone for both of you, and crossing that bridge becomes easier when you feel prepared.
