Taking Your Baby to the Dentist
March 17, 2017
Childhood tooth decay is becoming a serious problem for many children around the country. Fortunately, most of these cases can be prevented with proper preventative care.
If you want to give your child the best start in life when it comes to his or her teeth, you need to begin with an early dentist visit. Dr. Jacqueline Subka offers pediatric dentistry in Thousand Oaks, CA and specializes in treating infants and toddlers. Here are some things to know about taking your baby to their first dental visit:
Scheduling Your Appointment
Dr. Subka follows the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s recommendations and suggests parents bring their child in for the first time by the first birthday or within six months of getting a tooth. Committing to early dental care can help your child keep cavities away.
Knowing What to Expect
During this first visit, your child may be a little apprehensive. In most cases, your pediatric dentist will allow your baby to sit on your lap during the examination. This may help relax your child during the process. Your child’s teeth may be cleaned during the visit, or fluoride may be applied.
Partnering With Your Dentist
After the initial examination, Dr. Subka will typically discuss the importance of preventative care for your child’s oral health. She may talk about different ways to encourage healthy tooth development and discuss some of your child’s habits, like thumb sucking or drinking from a bottle.
Start Healthy Hygiene Habits
You will also get some additional instructions about the best way to start a comprehensive oral hygiene routine at home. Parents can learn easy tips and tricks for tooth brushing and flossing as their child grows. We also make suggestions about healthy snacks to offer and which foods to avoid.
Contact Dr. Subka today to schedule your baby’s first visit to the dentist. Let us help you and your child get started on the road to a healthy smile.