Taking Your Baby to the Dentist: What to Know

When babies gets their first tooth, it’s a big day in a parent’s life. A healthy smile begins with the first tooth, and parents should bring their child to a dentist as soon as their baby’s teeth start to come in.

Here’s what every parent should know about taking a baby to the dentist.

When Should I Take My Baby to the Dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends taking your child to the dentist for a checkup around age one or within six months after the first baby teeth sprout.

Why Does a Baby Need to See a Dentist?

It’s important for the baby teeth (or primary teeth) to be kept healthy until they fall out naturally. Keeping teeth healthy will help children chew properly, develop speech, save room for permanent teeth to grow in, and promote a nice, healthy smile.

How is a Baby Dentist Different From a Regular Dentist?

Just like the difference between a pediatrician and a regular doctor, pediatric dentists complete two years of training following dental school to learn how to specifically treat infants and children. They use a special set of tools designed for the small mouths of children and are skilled in performing the delicate work necessary for young patients.

You can find family dentists, like the ones at Kool Smiles, who work with children all day and have offices that are built specifically for kids.

How Do I Find a Dentist Who Will Treat Babies?

Kool Smiles is a network of over 120 dental facilities located throughout the United States that focus on treating young children and infants. Use our Kool Smiles location finder to see if there’s one near you.

Schedule an Appointment with Kool Smiles Today

Dental health should not be overlooked when providing the best all-around care for your baby. Visit one of our locations today, or call us to schedule an appointment.

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Sources:

AAPD: http://www.aapd.org/