Good early dental care is one of the most important things you do for your child. Studies prove that children who get early dental care need fewer dental procedures over time, which also means less expense for you as a parent. The compassionate dentistry care team at Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry is here to help your child enjoy good oral health now and all the way into adulthood. Special needs adults are welcome, as well. Call either of the two locations in Oklahoma City or Midwest City, Oklahoma, to make an appointment today.
If your child has even one tooth, they’re already vulnerable to tooth decay. Because your child is too young to take care of their own teeth and gums early in life, it’s up to you to make sure that they get the care they need to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
As your child grows, you’ll work in partnership with their Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry provider to develop the early dental care habits that set the stage for a lifetime of good oral health.
Good oral care starts even before your child’s first tooth appears. You can keep your baby’s gums clean by dipping a small gauze square in water and then rubbing it lightly along all gum surfaces. If your child’s cutting a tooth, you can freeze the wet gauze before rubbing it on their gums to help minimize soreness.
As soon as your baby gets their first tooth, you can start brushing twice daily. Use a baby-size toothbrush and an amount of fluoride-free toothpaste equal to one grain of rice. Until your child’s old enough to spit toothpaste out, they’re too young for fluoridated toothpaste.
The American Dental Association recommends scheduling your child’s first dental exam when their first tooth erupts, or when they’re 12 months old, whichever occurs first. The Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry team has extensive experience in caring for children during their very first dental exam. The dentists have a remarkably gentle touch and a calm approach to help your child feel comfortable.
In addition to check-ups every six months and good oral care at home, the Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry team can recommend preventive care tips like minimizing sugar intake and avoiding going to sleep with a bottle.
As your child grows up, they might also need treatment like supplemental fluoride or dental sealants to help prevent tooth decay.
Call Smiling Faces Pediatric Dentistry to get started on great early dental care for your child today.
