Do Babies Need Dental Care?

You might think babies don’t need to see the dentist until they have multiple teeth, but that’s simply not true. At Sand Dollar Dental in Foley, AL, we want to help you start good habits early, so you set your child up for a lifetime of good dental hygiene.

When Should I Schedule My Baby’s First Visit?

Usually, you’ll want to bring your baby in for a dental visit when the first tooth erupts or on or around their first birthday. You can also bring them in for other issues, though, such as if you suspect a tongue tie or other issue within the mouth.

Why Does It Matter If My Child Sees a Dentist?

It is true that baby teeth fall out, and they will be replaced by adult teeth later in life. Despite that, remember that these teeth play an important role: They help your child chew properly, learn to speak clearly, and hold space for their adult teeth. If they’re not cared for appropriately, decay can spread quickly throughout the mouth and cause pain or infections that affect the gums, permanent teeth, or even other parts of the body.

What Should I Be Doing at Home?

Start early with dental care. Wipe your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. Once their teeth appear, use a baby toothbrush with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste to brush the tooth or teeth. Minimize the amount of juice, sugary snacks, and sweets your child eats, particularly around bedtime.

Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Appointment in Foley, AL

If your baby is ready for their first dental visit, we’d love to meet them and have our pediatric team ready to work with their dental care. Call Sand Dollar Dental in Foley, AL to schedule your child’s first appointment today.