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So, you have decided it is time for your baby or toddler to see the dentist. We understand that this can be a daunting task, so we’ve put together this post to walk you through some of the basics of finding a pediatric dentist for your child.”
To help someone choose a Pediatric Dentist in their area.
For parents and caretakers who are considering taking their kids in for their first visit, here are some things to consider when choosing the right pediatric dentist:
-The location is key! If there are no offices near home or work then it makes it more difficult. It may also not be possible to schedule appointments outside of normal business hours due to school/daycare schedules. With an online directory of pediatric dental care, you can find not only local dentists but also their locations, service areas, practice hours and contact information. If a pediatric dentist is available near your home or work, then this directory can save you time and money in search for a dentist for your child.
Is it really necessary to take my child to a dentist at such a young age?
Yes. It is extremely important that you take your child to the pediatric dentist by his or her first birthday. By this time, the baby’s teeth have already started developing and if any tooth decay were to occur and go undetected, it could potentially result in an infection, requiring removal of the tooth.
What can I do to prevent my baby from getting cavities?
First and foremost, always remember that prevention is key. That said, there are things that you can do as a parent or caregiver in order to help reduce the risk of your child developing cavities in their juvenile years.
1) Two times a day, brush the teeth of your baby or toddler with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Try to do this at least twice regularly: once in the morning before breakfast and once before bedtime. Make sure that you are brushing for at least two minutes.
2) Ensure that your baby/child is getting enough liquids. Chewing on some sugar-free, soft-bristled toothpaste is an effective and painless way to help prevent tooth decay.
3) Don’t let your child eat sugary foods and drinks at meal times. Instead, offer healthy snacks such as fruit or vegetables with a small amount of dairy to help keep the teeth clean. 4) You should also consider using fluoride toothpaste to keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy.
4) If your child is over two, you can also help to prevent tooth decay and the need for dental work by scheduling regular dentist appointments. Consider looking for an office that offers weekend or evening hours so that you can schedule around work and school.
My child has already developed some cavities. What should I do?
Take your baby or toddler to your pediatric dentist right away. Your pediatric dentist can then go over a treatment plan with you and decide on the best course of action to take in order to fix any existing cavities. They will also be able to inform you of any other factors in your family history that could have contributed to the formation of cavities in your infant’s teeth, such as smoking or diabetes.
