Yes, infants should go to the dentist, too! When it is time to look at those baby teeth, we use a knee-to-knee technique, in which your infant lies across your lap and the doctor or hygienist’s lap. This method helps your little ones feel safe so we can look in their mouths. In this quick and easy exam, we evaluate your baby for early childhood dental diseases and give you the information you need to maintain good home care during this stage.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends scheduling your child’s first visit to the dentist for infant oral health exams within 6 months of the first baby tooth — or by 12 months old. Awareness and prevention are the focus of this visit for your child, similar to a well-baby checkup at the pediatrician’s office.
Dr. Meggan and her team offer new parents the option of a knee-to-knee exam — where your baby gets their first checkup in the comfort of your lap! While your baby may cry during this experience, the exam is very quick and your baby’s open mouth provides the best view of the entire oral cavity. Within seconds of finishing, the tears will go away and your baby will be back in your arms. Our team’s goals are focused on your baby’s health and helping you to establish good habits early!
One plus one equals Zero. One dental visit when there’s one tooth can equal zero cavities.
Visiting Growing Smiles by the time the first baby tooth appears enables your child to begin a lifelong dental care program to minimize tooth decay and gum disease.
Pediatric dentists can detect early tooth decay, provide parents with information on proper oral and facial development, determine fluoride needs and more.
The 12-month dental visit can actually save money! A study in the journal Pediatrics showed that children who have their first dental visit before age one have 40% lower dental costs in their first five years than children who do not — due to the cost of dental and medical procedures that may result from poor oral health.
