As a parent, chances are you have questions about your children’s oral health. This is completely normal, because establishing good habits from a young age is essential for a healthy smile throughout life. The team at Centre Dentaire Georges in LaSalle answers some frequently asked questions to guide you in your child’s dental care, at home and in the clinic.
At what age should I take my child to the dentist for the first time?
The Canadian Dental Association recommends planning the first visit to the dentist within six months of the start of teething or before the child’s first birthday. But why consult so early, when teeth are still growing? This initial exam serves several purposes:
- The dentist can check that the first teeth are growing properly.
- We will be able to detect possible signs of early childhood caries, as this infection can be present on the teeth when they erupt.
- The team will be able to give you advice on care adapted to your child’s age. Moreover, from the age of three, we will also carry out preventive care (professional cleaning and application of fluoride gel).
An early first visit also helps familiarize your child with the staff and the environment of the dental clinic, which should make future visits more pleasant.
How often should a child see the dentist?
In general, it is recommended to take children to the dentist twice a year for an examination and cleaning. However, depending on your child’s specific needs (cavities, orthodontic follow-up, etc.), the dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
Regular examinations allow our team to monitor the development of your little treasures’ teeth and jaws. This way, they can detect potential alignment or growth problems and suggest orthodontic follow-up, if necessary. Frequent check-ups are also important to check for the appearance of pathological signs, particularly those of early childhood caries. Finally, the dental hygienist can offer personalized advice to reinforce healthy dental habits.
What can I do to make my child’s visits easier?
Fear of the dentist is common among young children, but there are effective ways to reassure them and help appointments go smoothly. Here are some practical tips:
- Talk about the visit: Simply explain to your child that the dentist is there to check the health of their teeth and help them keep a beautiful smile. Also explain the different steps of the exam and remain neutral without mentioning pain or terms that could generate worry.
- Use fun materials: You can play dentist and patient to help your child understand what to expect from their visit or read a story or listen to a program on the subject.
- Adopt a positive attitude during the visit: Don’t let your own stress show. It is also important to respond well to the requests of the dental team members. They will also adapt their approach to make each visit comfortable and reassuring.
To preserve the oral health of your little treasures, you will also need to carry out hygiene care at home. We can of course advise you on the best ways to do this and help you support your child in their learning. If you have any questions or would like to plan a first visit for your child, the team at Centre Dentaire Georges in LaSalle is here to support you. Contact us today to make an appointment and give your child the foundations of a healthy smile!