Did you know that children should visit the dentist every six months just like adults? This is important to monitor their oral health as well as to build a relationship with them based on trust. Your child should begin seeing their dentist in Indianapolis around their first birthday or six months after their first teeth erupt. Early visits allow us to monitor your child’s oral development so we can make you aware of any concerns early on. Here’s what to expect at their first visit.
A Comfortable Environment
Our goal with your child’s first visits is to make them feel comfortable and at ease coming to the dentist. We’ll give them a ride in the “big chair,” count their teeth, and introduce them to the instruments we use. We never proceed with any type of procedure until your child is completely comfortable.
As they get older, we’ll incorporate dental cleanings into their routine visits, and we’ll begin taking x-rays of their teeth around the age of 6-8 years old. Early detection of any developmental concerns allows you the opportunity for treatment with less invasive procedures. We want to create a foundation of comfortable visits at the dentist so your child will be successful in the future, and even look forward to their dental appointments.
Additional Recommendations
In the future, we may recommend additional services for your child such as fluoride treatments and dental sealants. Fluoride is a mineral that helps to build and strengthen developing teeth. It also helps remineralize teeth damaged by decay.
Dental sealants are a thin coating we apply to the chewing surfaces of your child’s teeth to seal and protect them from the bacteria and acids that cause tooth decay.
If your child chooses to participate in sports, our doctors can discuss the right protective wear for their needs. Sports injuries account for almost half of dental emergencies and it’s important to wear the right mouth guard. At Indy Dental Group, we can fabricate a mouth guard for your child that will be much more comfortable to wear and provide better protection than the generic guards purchased at a sporting goods store.
Contact Indy Dental Group
If it’s time for your child’s first or next dental visit, we encourage you to call your family dentist in Indianapolis today to schedule. We can’t wait to meet your child!