Your baby's primary teeth, sometimes called his "baby" teeth, are just as important as his future adult teeth because they help him chew and speak and because they hold space in his jaws for the teeth that are growing under his gums, according to the American Dental Association. Part of keeping your baby's mouth healthy is taking him to regular dentist appointments for maintenance and professional advice.
When to Go
The American Dental Association recommends taking your child to her first "well-baby" dentist appointment within six months after her first tooth comes in, but no later than her first birthday. However, you might want to take your baby to the dentist earlier if her teeth are visibly discolored, suggests WhattoExpect.com.
The First Appointment
Your baby's dentist will generally try to stay within your baby's comfort level at the first visit to not frighten him away from future dentist visits. It's more of a "meet-and-greet," states WhattoExpect.com. The dentist will generally take a full history of your child's dental and medical health, answer any questions you might have, allow your baby to become acquainted with dental equipment and chair, and briefly examine your baby's mouth. During this time, depending on your child's age or level of development, the dentist may ask you to hold your baby during the examination.
Scheduling More Visits
Your dentist will let you know after your first appointment when you should schedule the next visit. Most toddlers should see the dentist every six months or so, assuming they have no major dental problems, according to the American Dental Association. You may want to schedule the second appointment right as you leave so you don't forget to schedule one six months down the line, suggests WhattoExpect.com.
Subsequent Appointments
The dentist will regularly inspect your baby's teeth, gums, jaw and bite and look for any signs of tooth decay. She will also clean your baby's teeth and, particularly if your baby has a stain or high cavity risk, apply some fluoride, explains WhattoExpect.com. She will most likely offer tips on oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing, and give you time to ask any questions, such as what foods are dangerous for your baby's teeth and whether her pacifier or the toys she's been sucking on will harm her teeth.
Addressing Fears
A dentist's office can be a frightening place for a baby, but a pediatric dentist's office is suited to reduce your baby's fears and pediatric dental staff are trained to expect fussing and squirming. CaremarkCVS, a retail pharmacy and health care corporation, recommends scheduling an appointment at the time of day when your child is least likely to be cranky. Also, your baby will pick up on any anxiety or stress you have about the dentist's office so stay upbeat throughout your visits. Your baby may even grow to enjoy dentist appointments if he gets a sticker or a balloon every time he leaves.
