It is recommended that children have their first visits to dentists by the time they are one year of age, or within six months of cutting the first tooth. Many dentists actually recommend that this first visit take place as soon as the first tooth comes in. Dental care should begin before teething even starts. Parents can clean their children’s gums with warm water and a soft cloth, and as teeth start to come in, switch to a soft toothbrush with a bit of toothpaste for oral hygiene. The earlier dental care begins, the better the chances are that children will have healthy smiles for life.
During the first visits to dentists in Manassas, VA, it is unlikely that there will be a lot of treatment being done. The first visit is more of a consultation, and a chance for children to meet their dentists. When there are no treatments being done, it allows children to get to know the dental professionals without feeling afraid of them. In some cases, parents are asked to sit with their children and hold them to alleviate their fears of being in the dental chair. In other cases, parents are asked to wait so the dentist and child can establish a relationship.
During the first dental exam, the teeth will be checked for signs of decay. The bite will be examined to determine if there are any irregularities with the jaws, gums, and tissues. Sometimes cleaning will be done, along with a fluoride treatment. The dentist will have a discussion with parents about proper oral hygiene, thumb sucking, how much fluoride is necessary, teething, and other dental issues. Other topics of discussion could include nutrition, milestones in tooth development, and scheduling future checkups.
It is best to take children to pediatric dentists, or dentists who have family practices and have plenty of experience working with children. Pediatric dentists have additional training over and above that which they receive at dental college, including training in child behavior, as well as growth and development. It is recommended that children with special needs visit pediatric dentists in Manassas, VA.
