Preventive Dentistry
Preventive dentistry is the practice of caring for one’s teeth in order to keep them healthy and mitigate future issues. Being proactive and involved in your child’s dental health from an early age is important for their long-term health. A positive relationship with the dentist from an early age helps to avoid cavities, gum disease, enamel wear and aids the early diagnosis of other teeth issues.
By promoting the dentists’ chair as a good place and not one to be afraid of, you assist your child and their dentist to achieve better oral health.
When should I take my child to the dentist?
Your child’s first visit to the dentist should take place before their first birthday. The general timeframe is around six months after the eruption of their first tooth, as decay can occur as soon as teeth appear. Taking your child to the dentist at a young age is the best way to prevent problems such as tooth decay, and can help you to learn how to properly clean their teeth and identify their specific fluoride needs.
Bringing your child to the dentist early in life helps them to get used to the dental office, reducing the fear associated with a foreign place, allowing for stress-free visits in the future and often leading to a lifetime of good oral health.
Positive child-dentist relationship
Early on in your child’s life, dental appointments should be fun, in order to promote a positive relationship with the dentist and the dental office in general. Some dentists may allow you to sit and hold the child in the dentist’s chair for the first appointment to help make them comfortable, toys may also be used to promote a fun environment. Before their first visit, talk to your child about what to expect, and build excitement as well as understanding about the upcoming visit.
By employing these actions, children end up with an ongoing positive relationship that removes the anxiety of regular visits to the dentist in adult life and in turn, better oral health. If you or your child are nervous about the first dental appointment, feel free to contact the friendly team at Blue Tooth Dental prior to your appointment.
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