A Toddler’s First Dental Visit: When, Where, Why

By Wright Smiles

When older children attend dental exams, checkups and cleanings, many things happen. We clean teeth surfaces carefully, and remove tartar (hardened plaque) that will not respond to tooth brushing. We may take X-rays, or use other dental technology to look inside mouths and throats. We check for signs of oral cancer. Why do dentists suggest bringing your baby to the dentist, and scheduling regular checkups beginning about age 3? There are great reasons your Southlake dentists want to see your youngster regularly!

When To Bring Your Toddler

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a baby’s first checkup occur by age 1. If teeth begin to appear sooner, schedule an appointment when a tooth appears. We can answer parent questions, give advice on how to care for infant teeth, and congratulate you on the new addition to your family.

Where To Bring Your Toddler

Every dental office has its preferences, and a child-friendy office is perfect for toddler checkups. The dental team is used to a little wiggling in the chair. A dentist with pediatric experience knows how to request “open wide” with reassuring patience and grace. Children who visit child-friendly dental offices also become accustomed to the non-threatening visits, and will have less anxiety about attending appointments.

Why Dental Visits Benefit Your Toddler

Little teeth need dental care to stay healthy, just as adult teeth do. In fact, with the less-dependable brushing habits of little ones, there are special treatments, such as sealants for molars, and fluoride treatments, that especially protect young teeth. During dental visits, we also keep any eye out of problems of jaw alignment, tooth alignment, and even tooth and facial bone development, with the help of digital X-rays.

Schedule Regular Toddler Visits, Beginning About Age 3

We want to see your baby and your children of all ages, to keep an eye on their good oral health. Gregory Wright, DDS  and Dr. Victoria Heron are happily accepting new patients from Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, Trophy Club, Colleyville, and all surrounding communities. To learn more, call our office today at (817) 481-7999.