Learning to Manage Your Dental Problems

5 Things You Need to Know Before Taking Your Child to the Dentist

9 August 2016 by Charlotte Beck

Your child is ready to go to the dentist. Or, at least you think they are. You already know the pediatrician's check-up schedule for your little one, but what about preventative maintenance when it comes to your child's teeth? Understanding when to have regular dental visits is essential when it comes to keeping your child's mouth healthy. Check out these must-know tips for choosing and taking your young child to the dental pro.

Early start.

There's no reason to wait until your child has a mouth filled with chompers to make that all-important first appointment. If your child is at least one year old and has at least one tooth, it's time to take them in for a check-up, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD).

A dental home.

Just like your child has one pediatrician, they should have one dentist. This is their "dental home." Picking a pro early allows you to establish a relationship with the dentist (and office staff) and provides a sense of comfort to your child. With one dental home, your child grows up knowing what to expect at each visit and builds a relationship with the office's dental team.

Pediatric specialists.

You're exploring your options, asking friends who they take their kids to, and are doing some Internet research. You've narrowed down your choices but are still unsure as to whether your child needs a pediatric or family specialist. A pediatric specialist, as the name says, only works with children (and adolescents). This type of dental professional must complete two to three years of specialized training after graduating from dental school, according to the AAPD.

A family practitioner.

A family dentist is a general practitioner. If you choose to go this route, your entire family can all go to the same office. This certainly has its advantages. You'll have all of your dental records in one place and can even schedule your own appointments at the same time as your child's.

Six-month rule.

As long as your child isn't having any problems (such as a toothache or a mouth injury), you should take them to see the dentist every six months. This starts with the first appointment. Making the next appointment each time your child is in the office may be helpful when it comes to sticking to a schedule. Doing so allows you to keep on top of your child's early dental care without having to remember when their last check-up was.

Maintaining a healthy mouth from the start means visiting the dentist regularly. From knowing when to go to deciding which type of professional to see, arming yourself with the facts helps you to make the most of your choices and keep your child on the right dental track!

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