{"id":260,"date":"2017-02-13T16:25:29","date_gmt":"2017-02-13T16:25:29","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/blog.washingtondentalnj.com\/?p=260"},"modified":"2017-02-13T16:25:29","modified_gmt":"2017-02-13T16:25:29","slug":"preparing-childs-first-dental-visit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.washingtondentalnj.com\/blog\/2017\/02\/13\/preparing-childs-first-dental-visit\/","title":{"rendered":"Preparing For Your Child\u2019s First Dental Visit"},"content":{"rendered":"SEEING A BABY\u2019S FIRST SMILE\u00a0<\/strong>is a wonderful moment in a new parent\u2019s life\u2013that little grin leaves a lasting impression! Visiting the dentist early ensures that your child\u2019s smile remains happy and healthy.\n\n\n

First Tooth Pop In? Time To Schedule Their Appointment!<\/strong><\/h3>\nThe American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have their first dental appointment\u00a0once their first tooth appears or no later than their first birthday<\/strong>. Although this may seem early for a first visit, there are many reasons for acquainting your child with a dentist so early in their oral development.\n\nThe first, and most obvious, is that we are able to monitor the health of their new teeth as they come in. As soon as your little one\u2019s first tooth erupts,\u00a0he or she can begin to develop cavities<\/strong>. Aside from checking for tooth decay, we check to ensure that their overall oral development is on track and answer any questions you may have about your child\u2019s growing smile.\n

What To Expect During Your Child\u2019s First Visit<\/strong><\/h3>\nAs you prepare your child for their first dental visit, you may begin to wonder what you can expect during their appointment.\u00a0The first dental visit is often very brief and gives your child an opportunity to meet their dentist in a friendly, non-threatening way.<\/strong>\u00a0This helps get them acquainted and can help calm your child before their dental exam.\n\nOnce your child is ready for their exam, Dr. Tong will:\n
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  • Check their existing teeth for decay<\/li>\n \t
  • Examine their bite and look for any problems with the gums, jaw and oral tissues<\/li>\n \t
  • If discussed beforehand, clean any teeth present<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nThese appointments are also an excellent opportunity for us to share information with you about proper oral care as your child\u2019s smile develops.\u00a0If you have any questions about your child\u2019s oral hygiene routine, this is a perfect time to ask!<\/strong>\u00a0We\u2019ll be happy to discuss strategies to help soothe your baby during the teething phase, answer questions about oral habits such as thumb sucking, or share tips about a smile-healthy diet.\n\nAfter their visit is complete, we will suggest a schedule of follow-up visits based on the unique needs of your child.\n\nWatch the video below to learn more about your child\u2019s first dental visit and how to prepare them for their appointment:<\/strong>\n\n