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When Should I Take My Child to the Dentist?

Whether your baby’s first teeth are just now erupting, or your child is noticing their first baby tooth becoming loose, you’re probably wondering, “When should I take my child to the dentist?”

It is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) that a child visit the dentist by 1 year of age or within 6 months of their first baby tooth coming in. There can also be other signs that your child needs to see a dentist as soon as possible, as well.

Make Their First Experience a Positive One

If you’re asking “When should I take my child to the dentist?” know this isn’t the only question that can benefit you. Knowing that taking your child to the dentist when they are young is a helpful way to establish good care can help answer your question. So, why should you take your child to the dentist early? Because the best way to help your child feel comfortable with visiting the dentist is to make their first experience a positive one instead of waiting until you might have a concern about your child’s teeth or they experience dental injury or discomfort. Dentists and their staff often enjoy making a child’s first experience a fun and educational one. It’s also a great opportunity for you to talk with your child’s dentist about ways that you can help your child care for their teeth at home.

When to Make an Appointment ASAP

Another time you may find yourself asking “When should I take my child to the Dentist?” is when you are facing a potential concern or problem. There are several signs you can watch for that mean you should call immediately and make an emergency appointment to take your child to the dentist even if they have already been recently.

If your child complains about pain in their teeth, mouth or jaw or experiences sensitivity to hot or cold foods or drinks then you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Other signs your child needs to see a dentist include if you notice white or brown spots or any other discoloration on your child’s teeth or delays or problems with their baby teeth or adult teeth erupting.

Keep it Up!

Just like it’s important to take care of your child’s teeth at home with regular daily brushing after meals, it’s also important to take your child to see a dentist regularly, usually every six months, for an exam and professional cleaning to ensure that their teeth and jaw are developing properly and to help spot difficult to clean areas before any problems arise.

Asking “When should I take my child to the dentist?” is a great question every parent should research. Starting your child off early with good oral hygiene habits and good routine care with a dentist can help prevent costly and uncomfortable treatments and help ensure a bright and confident smile in their future.

Call our Fairbanks Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.

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