Congratulations on your new baby! It is an exciting time full of schedules and milestones for feeding, napping, bathing, reading, immunizations, crawling, haircuts, and also the FIRST DENTAL VISIT.
Yes, that is correct! The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry as well as the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that your baby have their first dental visit after you see the first tooth or by age 1. Children who wait until age 2 or 3 for their first dental examination are more likely to need restorative care (fillings, crowns) or emergency treatment as reported in the scientific journal, Pediatric Dentistry.
Dental cavities are caused by a bacteria, Streptococcus mutans, which can spread easily in families and can cause long lasting effects throughout life. Cavities are the most common chronic disease of childhood in the United States outranking other diseases such as asthma.
Baby teeth are susceptible to decay from the time you are able to see them in the mouth. More than 25% of children have cavities in their baby teeth before entering kindergarten according to the CDC. These teeth are very important for total health and well being. They allow for growth by chewing healthy foods, proper speech, and are the guide for permanent teeth and a beautiful, young smile. They will stay in your child’s mouth until about age 12.
The good news is that cavities are largely preventable!
Kaelin Pediatric Dentistry would like to invite you to our newly expanded, beach-themed office for your child’s dental home. We are committed to education and empowering you to make healthy choices for your baby. Dr. Kaelin is a mother to two daughters herself, and values the relationship with you and your baby. She treats every patient as her own and enjoys watching them develop from infants to young adults.
Dr. Kaelin will do a cavity risk assessment on your baby and discuss with you feeding practices (nursing vs. bottle vs. sippy cup), diet, fluoride use (toothpaste and water) such as when and how much, oral hygiene schedules and methods, non-nutritive sucking habits (thumb and pacifier), dental trauma, and growth and development. Your baby will have continuing care visits every 6 months ... just like you.
We are the pediatricians of dentistry, with 2-3 years of specialty training following dental school, focusing on the growth and development, psychology, cosmetic as well as alternative methods of treatment for infants, children, and teens. You do not need a referral to see a pediatric dentist, as we are the primary source of dental care for your baby.
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