According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), your child should visit a pediatric (children's) dentist by his/her 1st birthday. You can make the first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive. Your child should be informed of the visit and told that the dentist and their staff will explain all procedures and answer any questions. The less to-do concerning the visit, the better. When you bring your child in on or before their first birthday it allows us to talk to you about the causes of dental decay and ways to prevent early childhood caries. (baby bottle tooth decay) We will also discuss the importance of diet and nutrition. Nothing can protect your childs teeth and general health more than their diet.

It is best if you refrain from using words around your child that might cause unnecessary fear, such as needle, pull, drill or hurt. Pediatric dental offices make a practice of using words that convey the same message, but are pleasant and non-frightening to the child.

It is very important to maintain the health of the primary teeth, or baby teeth. Neglected cavities can and frequently do lead to problems which affect developing permanent teeth. Primary teeth (baby teeth) are important for (1) proper chewing and eating, (2) providing space for the permanent teeth and guiding them into the correct position, and (3) permitting normal development of the jaw bones and muscles. Primary teeth (baby teeth) also affect the development of speech and add to an attractive appearance. While the front 4 teeth last until 6-7 years of age, the back teeth (cuspids and molars) aren’t replaced until age 10-13.