Pediatric Dentistry

The general rule is that children should see a dentist for the first time six months after eruption of the first tooth and no later than one year old. Taking your child to the dentist at a young age is a great way to give your child a healthy start on a lifetime of good oral hygiene habits.

Like adults, children should visit the dentist every six months. Some dentists may schedule visits for every three months when your child is very young in order to build a comfort level or to treat any developing problems.

Here's a list of dental care necessities from birth on up:

Baby Teeth Cleaning: Baby teeth should be cleaned as soon as they erupt. Clean your baby's teeth with a soft washcloth or gauze after every bottle or meal. When more than one tooth erupts, you can soak a small-bristled child-sized (age-appropriate) toothbrush in warm water before using it on your baby's teeth, as instructed by your dentist.

Baby teeth should be brushed using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. Use water without fluoride until approximately six months of age. Encourage your children to brush their own teeth once they have the coordination to do so. Replace toothbrushes every two to three months.

Children's teeth should be brushed after they are given medicine. Acids contained in medicines may eat away at tooth enamel, which serves as a natural protective coating for the teeth.

First Dental Visit: It is important that your child see a dentist by age one to establish a long-term dental hygiene and professional dental cleaning plan.

Dental Flossing: Parent-assisted dental flossing should commence when two teeth erupt next to each other. Independent flossing should occur when children have the ability to do it on their own (often by six years of age).

Mouth Washing: Mouth washing is usually recommended by age seven, provided your child can perform the activity.