Dental Care Starts At Home
Once your child has gotten his first tooth, parents should use water and a soft toothbrush that's designed for babies. Once your little one can put things in his mouth, you can even give him the toothbrush to chew on. Just realize that you'll still need to clean his teeth -- this is just getting your child used to handling the toothbrush.
While it's a great idea to let kids brush their own teeth, parents should follow up with a quick brushing of their own to make sure that every tooth has been properly cleaned. And don't forget to floss. Kids need to floss just like adults do.
First Visit the Dentist
The visit will be a short one and is just designed to get your child used to having their teeth cared for. Parents never really know how their child will react when they get into the chair, but it can make the visit easier on everyone if it's not scheduled when the child is tired or during their regular nap time.
During this first visit, the dentist will take a look at any teeth that have come through, and make sure the gums are healthy and not inflamed. Depending on how well the child is doing, the visit may include a gentle cleaning, and showing parents how to care for the kids’ teeth.
Be Patient
Be Patient. Look for an office that's experienced in treating children and adults and a dentist that's comfortable working with children. Explain to your child that the dentist will take a look at their teeth to make sure they're growing correctly and that he might even take a picture of the teeth using a special camera. Before your visit, have kids practice opening their mouths wide and let them know that it won't hurt. Having a carefree attitude towards a dental visit can do a lot to alleviate any stress that your child might have about it.
Proper dental care starts at home, but that doesn't mean that your child shouldn't visit the dentist. Introducing your child to a dental office will help go a long way towards setting them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth.