The first dental visit is an important milestone for your child. At East Lake Dental, we make it a comfortable and positive experience that sets the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.
When Should My Child First See a Dentist?
We recommend bringing your child in by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Early visits help us catch any issues early and get your child comfortable with dental care.
What Happens at the First Visit?
The first dental visit is usually short and involves very little treatment:
- We may ask you to sit in the dental chair and hold your child during the examination
- We'll gently examine your child's teeth and gums
- X-rays may be taken to check on permanent teeth developing under the gums
- We may clean your child's teeth and apply topical fluoride
- Most importantly, we'll review how to care for your child's teeth at home
Tips to Prepare Your Child
Prepare your child the same way you would before their first haircut:
- Take a preview visit to our office before the appointment
- Read books together about going to the dentist
- Review what will happen in simple, positive terms
- Speak positively about your own dental experiences
- Avoid scary words like "hurt," "shot," or "drill"
Preventing Cavities in Children
Most cavities in children are due to a diet high in carbohydrates and not enough brushing. Here are tips to prevent cavities:
- Limit frequency of meals and snacks
- Encourage brushing, flossing, and rinsing
- Watch what your child drinks (avoid sugary beverages)
- Avoid giving sticky foods
- Make treats part of meals, not separate snacks
- Choose nutritious snacks like cheese, vegetables, and yogurt
When Do Baby Teeth Come In?
- 6-8 months: Two bottom front teeth
- Next: Four upper front teeth
- By 2½ years: All 20 baby teeth should be present
- Ages 5-6: First permanent teeth begin to erupt
Baby teeth are important! They hold space for permanent teeth and are essential for chewing, speaking, and appearance.
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Questions? Call East Lake Dental at (248) 437-4119 or request an appointment.Questions About Your Dental Health?
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