San Bruno, CA Family Dentist Discusses the Importance of Early Childhood Visits

Many parents inquire about the need for early childhood dental care, so today I’d like to take a little time to talk to you about the importance of establishing a routine of dental visits for your child at an early age. Whether your child is an infant or a toddler, it’s important to establish an early routine of dental health care to ensure that your child's baby teeth are being properly cared for.

When should my child first see a dentist?

A child should be seen at San Bruno Family Dentistry as soon as his or her first tooth erupts, usually between 6 and 12 months of age but no later than their first birthday. A good rule to remember is "First Visit by First Birthday". This visit is the first step in establishing a pattern of proper dental care for your child and helping to avoid the “dental phobia” that plagues many adults because of an inadequate routine of early childhood dental visits.

However, the most important reason for early childhood visits to your Family Dentist is to begin a thorough prevention program. Dental problems can develop early, and establishing a routine of examinations will enable us to monitor your child’s oral health by checking for tooth decay and other potential problems. In addition, we can help you to establish a healthy routine of home oral care by showing you the proper way to clean your child’s teeth.

What steps can I take to ensure the dental health of my child?

The best thing you can do to ensure your child’s lifelong healthy smile is to provide them with a well-balanced diet, limit snacks, ensure that they brush twice and floss once per day, and schedule regular dental checkups for them with your San Bruno, CA Dental Office.