At Miravéco, we are committed to dental health from the earliest moments of life. One of the most common questions parents receive is, “When should I take my child to the dentist for the first time?” The answer, backed by experts in pediatric dentistry and numerous scientific investigations, is clear: when the first tooth appears.
Why is an early visit to the dentist crucial?
1. Prevention from the start:
Prevention is the basis of modern dentistry, and this is especially true in children. The appearance of the first tooth, usually between 6 and 12 months, marks a milestone in a child’s oral health. It is at this time that dentists can begin to assess dental development and possible abnormalities very early on, allowing appropriate preventive measures to be implemented.
2. Establish good habits:
During this first visit, not only are teeth examined, but parents are also oriented on the importance of proper oral hygiene from the earliest months. This includes the correct way to clean teeth, the use of fluoride, and how to avoid risk factors such as prolonged bottle or pacifier use beyond the recommended time.
3. Early detection of problems:
Early detection of potential dental problems is crucial. Conditions such as early childhood caries, also known as baby bottle tooth decay, can develop quickly and cause pain, infection, and even affect the development of permanent teeth. A pediatric dentist can identify early signs of caries or malocclusions and propose preventive treatments to avoid future complications.
Several studies have shown the benefits of early dental care:
- Early childhood caries: according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), caries is the most common chronic disease in childhood, affecting up to 40% of children before age 5. The AAPD recommends that children have their first dental visit when their first tooth appears, as early intervention can prevent the progression of cavities.
- Proper oral cavity development: A study published in the Journal of Dental Research highlighted the importance of early visits to ensure proper oral cavity development. Researchers found that children who began their dental care before the first year of life were less likely to need invasive dental treatments in childhood.
- Economic Impact: Research conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed that early dental care can significantly reduce the long-term costs associated with treating oral disease. Children who visit the dentist before their first birthday are less likely to require costly procedures compared to those who do not.
So, the first visit to the dentist when the first tooth appears is a critical step in ensuring optimal oral health in children. At Miravéco Dental Clinic we take care of guiding parents on this important journey, offering preventive care and the necessary knowledge to protect the smiles of the little ones from the very beginning. Remember, your child’s oral health is an investment for life and here we help you start taking care of it.
