Pediatric Dentistry

Infants typically begin teething somewhere between four and seven months and the first baby teeth will emerge soon after. However, it’s not unusual for teeth to not show until closer to one year old.

The dentists at M Dental in Mississauga recommend that parents bring in their baby by their first birthday or within the first six months after a tooth has appeared.

What Happens During a Baby’s First Dentist Appointment?

An infant’s first visit to the dentist is generally just precautionary and is a good time for the child to become familiar with a dentist’s office. Parents tend to hold the child when they are in the chair so they aren’t as intimidated by the environment. The appointment will consist of a few things:

  • An examination of your child’s mouth
  • The dentist will look at any teeth for signs of decay
  • Looking at your child’s bite
  • Looking for any signs of issues with the gums, jaw, or oral tissue
  • The dentist may also want to discuss dental hygiene, cavity prevention, nutrition, developmental milestones, and if there are any oral habits, such as sucking their thumb, tongue thrusting, or lip sucking.
  • Depending on where your child is at in the development of their teeth, your dentist may want to start scheduling 6-month checkups and cleanings. This may be necessary in order to monitor the growth of the teeth and can be important to prevent future problems.

How to Help a Child Feel Comfortable at the Dentist

Many people have a traumatic experience at the dentist, which makes them want to avoid going in the future, so it’s important to establish healthy habits early. You can help your child feel more comfortable at the dentist by:

  • Sitting in the room during a cleaning.
  • Giving them a prize at the end of the appointment.
  • Giving them some time to get to know their dentist.
  • Show them the tools that a dentist uses before the actual cleaning.

These simple steps can go a long way in helping them develop a healthy relationship with their dentist.

If you have a new baby and it’s time for their first dentist appointment, visit the team at M Dental. We love working with our young patients and can’t wait to help them learn how to take care of their teeth.

Schedule an Appointment With M Dental Today