Think you just need to pay attention to visiting the dentist when you’re an adult? This actually isn’t the case. It’s critical that your children receive early dental care with an exceptional dental pro like Dr. Ali Saeghi of Modern Age Dentistry.
Dr. Saeghi has learned, through experience and knowledge of best practices, how to make your child’s dental visits something they’ll look forward to.
It’s never too early to start getting your child accustomed to going to the dentist and learning about how to take care of their teeth.
Both the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that children visit the dentist by 1 year of age.
This is so parents can learn how to properly care for their children’s teeth. Then, when it’s time for children to brush and floss on their own, parents can teach appropriate techniques.
This might surprise you, but tooth decay is the most frequently experienced chronic disease among children in the US. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 40% of children have some level of tooth decay by the time they go to kindergarten.
Reasons for this include:
This shows why getting your child connected to dental care by their first birthday is critical.
Childhood dental care sets children up for a lifetime of dental health, so they’ll be less likely to experience future problems, including cavities, gingivitis (gum disease), and advanced periodontal disease.
Even before your baby’s teeth come in, it’s a good idea to gently wipe the inside of their mouth with a soft cloth, to start the practice of oral health care and get them accustomed to it.
Typically, a baby’s first teeth come in at around 6 months of age. Even though they’re temporary, it’s crucial to care for them well — just like their permanent teeth. Not only do these teeth allow your baby to enjoy their first foods, but they also help guide their jawbone development.
Unfortunately, early childhood decay can cause baby tooth loss, which poses significant problems, including:
If left unchecked, tooth decay is also painful and can lead to infection, including serious, systemic infection.
Once baby teeth emerge, you can continue using a soft cloth or very soft toothbrush to clean them.
When your baby visits Dr. Saeghi for the first time, you can ask about when to start using fluoridated toothpaste.
When your child is 2 and 3 years old, you can help them master brushing their teeth themselves. Dr. Saeghi might also suggest that your child’s baby teeth be coated with a fluoride varnish to reduce decay.
By the time they’re 7 or 8, your child should be able to brush and floss their teeth on their own. It’s good to check in with them to make sure their technique is correct and thorough.
It’s also important to talk with your kids about eating a healthy diet, including limiting sugary foods and beverages. When your child’s permanent teeth come in, Dr. Saeghi may also discuss dental seals to protect them and prevent decay in treated teeth.
We’re committed to making your child’s earliest dental visits educational and enjoyable, to foster a feeling that going to the dentist is something to look forward to, rather than dread.
At Modern Age Dentistry, we do all we can to make your child feel welcome and design their dental visit so it’s child-focused. We even have Princess, our therapy dog, to offer comfort during visits.
You can play an important part in preparing your child for their first dental visit by getting them excited and talking about dental care in a positive light. If they have misgivings or nervousness about coming to see us, listen carefully, acknowledge their feelings, and try to ease their fears.
You can also empower them by encouraging them to ask Dr. Saeghi questions themselve, and reassure them that you’ll be able to stay with them during their visit.
Don’t put off scheduling your child’s important first dental visit. We’re here to help take care of your whole family’s dental health. Contact the Modern Age Dentistry office that’s most convenient to you and schedule an appointment, or you can book one online. We have offices in Atwater Village, West Hills, and Ojai, California.
