First Visit
Your child's first set of teeth are extremely important. Starting out on the right foot in your child's dental care is crucial for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Strong, healthy primary teeth help your child chew food easily, learn to speak clearly, and look good. Neglected primary teeth can lead to general health problems and many missed days of school. Preventive services such as fluoride treatments and sealants are less costly than the fillings, crowns and other treatments that your child may need if the teeth are neglected. Dr. Jackson can help your young child look forward to a lifetime of healthy teeth and a great smile.
At what age should my child first see a dentist?
If possible, your child's first visit should come between six to twelve months. The earlier regular visits begin, the better chance you and your dentist have to prevent problems. In addition to checking for decay and proper growth, the dentist will teach you how to properly clean your child's teeth daily, evaluate any adverse habits, and identify your child's fluoride needs. Habits are hard to break, so start your child off right with a healthy habit of proper dental care!
How often should my child see the dentist?
It is generally recommended that children visit the dentist every six months. Depending on the dental needs of your child, Dr. Jackson will set a schedule of visits customized to your child. Some of the factors that effect the frequency of visits are: initial condition of your child's teeth, oral hygiene, eating habits and whether or not your child drinks fluoridated water.
How should I prepare my child for their first visit?
You play an important role in preparing your child for his first visit to us. The first visit to the dentist can determine your child's attitude towards dental visits for years to come. Be relaxed and at ease with your child. Any anxiety on your part will be sensed by your child. Tell your child that we will "count" and possibly "take pictures" of his teeth, and then talk afterwards about it. Don't use words that may create fear in your child such as "hurt, shot, drill, X-ray, or needle". Don't relate any negative experiences you may have had as a child, and don't let other people tell your child stories that may provoke fear.
Is it ok for children to cry?
Crying is a normal reaction to almost any kind of anxiety in a young child. New experiences, strange people and places fit in that category for the very young. Please do not let your child's occasional tears upset you as it is very common and we anticipate crying in some small children. The more relaxed we ( parent and dental staff ) are at that time, the sooner the child will overcome his/her anxiety.
Pointers for Parents!
Do!
* Try to make dental visits enjoyable for your child, we'll help!
* Set a good example! Brush and Floss your own teeth daily, and visit the dentist
regularly.
Don't!
* Bribe your child into going to the dentist.
* Use a dental visit as a punishment.
* Let the child know you feel any anxiety about going to the dentist.
* Let anyone tell your child scary stories about dental visits.
* Use words like hurt, pain, needle, drill, shot, etc.