As pediatric dentists, one of the most common questions we hear from new parents is, “When should dental care begin for my child?”

The answer may surprise you – dental care should start well before your child’s first tooth appears!

In this post, we’ll discuss the importance of early dental care and provide a timeline for when and how to start caring for your child’s oral health.

Dental Care Before the First Tooth (0-6 months) 

Even before your baby’s first tooth emerges, it’s essential to establish good oral hygiene habits:

1. Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth or a soft, rubber finger toothbrush after each feeding. This helps remove bacteria and sugars that can lead to tooth decay.
2. Avoid putting your baby to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, or juice, as this can cause a condition called “baby bottle tooth decay.”

The First Dental Visit (6-12 months) 

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing, whichever comes first. This early visit allows your pediatric dentist to:

1. Assess your child’s oral health and development
2. Provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices
3. Discuss diet and nutrition for optimal dental health
4. Answer any questions you may have about your child’s teeth and gums

Caring for Your Child’s Teeth at Home (6-36 months) 

As your child’s teeth begin to emerge, it’s important to establish a regular oral hygiene routine:

1. Use a soft-bristled, infant-sized toothbrush with a smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) to gently brush your child’s teeth twice a day.
2. As your child grows, increase the amount of toothpaste to a pea-sized dollop and teach them to spit out the excess after brushing.
3. Begin flossing your child’s teeth once they have two teeth that touch, using child-friendly flossers or floss picks.
4. Encourage your child to drink from a cup by their first birthday to avoid prolonged exposure to sugary liquids.

Regular Dental Check-Ups (36 months and beyond) 

As your child grows, regular dental check-ups become an essential part of maintaining their oral health. The AAPD recommends that children visit their pediatric dentist every six months for:

1. Professional cleanings and fluoride treatments
2. Cavity risk assessments and preventive care
3. Monitoring of tooth development and potential orthodontic needs
4. Age-appropriate oral hygiene education and guidance

During these visits, your pediatric dentist will also address any concerns you may have about your child’s oral health and provide personalized recommendations for at-home care.

Your Partners in Your Child’s Oral Health 

At Valley Pediatric Dentistry, we are committed to being your partners in your child’s dental health journey from infancy through adolescence. Our team of experienced pediatric dentists provides compassionate, child-friendly care in a welcoming environment designed to make dental visits a positive experience for both you and your little one.

If you have any questions about when to start dental care for your child or would like to schedule their first dental visit, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to support you every step of the way, helping you give your child the gift of a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime.

At Valley Pediatric Dentistry, we have 3 convenient locations in Harrisburg, Camp Hill, and Carlisle. 

Don’t wait – schedule an appointment for your child today!