New parents often wonder… when is the right time to take their little one to see a dentist? Many may think that children who have just started to grow new teeth do not have dental problems yet, so it is not necessary to visit a dentist. However, in reality, seeing a dentist does not have to wait until there is a problem with the teeth because children should receive basic dental health care to prevent issues and maintain good dental health from the time their first baby tooth appears. Today… Dr. Chayanthip Srirat, a pediatric dentist, will help ease the concerns of parents who worry about their child’s dental health.
When should a child have their first dental visit?
From birth, parents should use a cloth soaked in boiled water to clean the child’s mouth. Children should have their first dental visit as soon as their first baby tooth appears, or at the latest within 6 months after the first baby tooth erupts. A pediatric dental specialist will provide care and advice such as:
- Cleaning teeth, cheeks, tongue, and gum ridges
- Proper toothbrushing techniques for children at different ages. When baby teeth appear, it is recommended to use a soft-bristled toothbrush for children aged 6 months to 3 years with a straight cross-section. Parents should brush the child’s teeth while the child lies on their lap.
- Understanding the order of baby teeth eruption, various problems, and prevention
- Choosing fluoride toothpaste and the correct way to use it
- Recommending fluoride varnish for children to prevent tooth decay
- In cases where any tooth is at high risk of decay, the dentist may recommend pit and fissure sealants
How will the dentist examine and treat the teeth? Will the child feel pain or be scared?
During the first dental visit, the dentist will start by introducing the child to the dental tools and simple, painless, and uncomplicated dental care procedures, such as explaining the dental examination and performing the check-up, teaching toothbrushing and flossing techniques to both the parents and the child, and applying fluoride varnish. Then, the dentist will gradually proceed to more complex or difficult treatments to help the child not be afraid and develop a positive attitude towards dental care.
What does pediatric dentistry include?
- Providing dental treatment services, including advice on oral and dental care for children at different ages
- Preventing tooth decay in both baby and permanent teeth through fluoride varnish and pit and fissure sealants
- Treating decayed teeth in both baby and permanent teeth, such as fillings, root canal treatment, crowns, extractions, and space maintainers
Dr. Chayanthip Srirat
Pediatric Dental Specialist
Dental Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
