According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child’s first visit to the dentist is recommended by the either of 1) their first birthday or 2) six months after the appearance of their first tooth, whichever comes first.
For many parents this seems early, but oral exams at this age are a great opportunity for a dentist to gauge the development of a child’s gums, teeth, and jawbone, identify possible concerns, and provide invaluable guidance on managing issues like thumb-sucking and teething.
When Should Regular Dental Visits Begin?
After this first visit, until age 3 or 4, outside of emergencies, we recommend annual preventive visits to the dentist. This is because kids are susceptible to cavities as soon as they’ve got teeth, with more than a third of children between the ages of 2 and 5 getting cavities in their baby teeth.
In addition to supporting vital preventive and developmental care, these early dental visits also allow your child to start developing a strong relationship with their children’s dentist in Jensen Beach, creating positive associations with dental care, a commitment that contributes to a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime!
A Caring Children's Dentist in Jensen Beach, FL
If you’re in Jensen Beach and want a gentle and caring dental team to guide you through your baby’s oral development, contact Dr. Christopher J. Wigley and the welcoming Jensen Beach Dental team today to schedule an appointment!