Kid’s First Dental Appointment in Vista
It is never too early to start good, healthy habits!
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, American Public Health Association, and the American Academy of Pediatrics currently recommend that all children have their first dental visit by 12 months of age, or within 6 months of the eruption of their first tooth. It’s important to receive guidance on infant feeding practices, teething, finger-sucking and pacifier habits, and to ensure that the right habits are being established.
Your child’s first dental visit is designed to help them feel comfortable with their dentist. Depending on your child’s age, the visit may include a full exam of the teeth, jaws, occlusion (bite), gums, and oral tissues to evaluate growth and development. Your child may also have a gentle cleaning performed. This includes polishing the teeth and removing any plaque, tartar, and stains. Our team will show you proper home cleaning techniques including how to brush, how and when to floss, and will advise on the use of fluoride therapy.
At All Smiles Children’s Dentistry, we will walk your child through every step of the way, allowing them to see, hear, and touch all of our instruments. They will also enjoy watching a demonstration from our dragon friends so that they understand what’s happening during their first dental exam.
Why are Primary (Baby) teeth important?
Primary teeth are important for many reasons. First and foremost, they allow your child to eat, chew and maintain proper and healthy nutrition. Children need their baby teeth to help them with clear pronunciation and correct speech habits. Primary teeth play a very important role in guiding the eruption of the permanent teeth by acting as space maintainers during growth and development. And, of course, baby teeth are a large part of your child’s beautiful smile!