Amy C. Parker DDS

For a lifetime of dental health, it's vital that your children get off to a good start.

There are significant differences between needs of children and adults. A Pediatric dentist ­a dentist specializing in the care of children and adoles­cents - is specially trained to recognize these needs and treat young patients accordingly.

STARTING EARLY SAVES TEETH

It is recommended that children should see a pediatric dentist when the first tooth appears, or before age one. Before that, wipe your baby's gums with a soft doth, and brush emerging baby teeth with a soft brush, using little or no toothpaste. A child should never be allowed to suck toothpaste off of the toothbrush and swallow it. Toothpaste contains fluoride, which, if ingested, can be harmful to young children.

Even infants are susceptible to cavities. Early childhood cavities often afflict young children who nurse from a bottle at bedtime, as the sugars in milk, formula, or juice pool around teeth, causing rampant decay. Never put your baby to bed with a bottle.

Even though baby teeth will be replaced by the time a child is a teenager, careful attention to your child's dental health is vital. Problems with baby teeth, such as misalignment or decay; can damage permanent teeth before they've even erupted. Addressing such problems at an early stage can prevent bigger problems later on. A dental professional can also help train older children inproper brushing and flossing techniques, to help reinforce good brushing habits.

Y0UR CHILD'S FIRST APPOINTMENT

A bit of preparation and attention to a few key details can put your child at ease. There are children’s books featuring trips to the dentist that may help prepare your
child for the visit. The first visit is an opportunity to familiarize the child with the dentist and office setting, as well as a chance for the dentist to make a preliminary examination of your child's teeth. Dental professionals are trained to put children at ease and to minimize any possible discomfort. If your child feels relaxed and comfortable, a positive association with the dentist, and dental care in general, will likely develope.

Getting your children off to a good start with a caring, competent dental professional sets the stage for good dental care habits that can last a lifetime.

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