When To Schedule Baby’s First Dentist Appointment

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Babies coo, cry, slobber, and chew on everything when they’re teething. And when that first little white bump appears, parents’ already question-racked minds then fill with questions like:

  • Do I brush this tooth, and if so, how?
  • How can I keep my baby from getting tooth decay?
  • They’re only baby teeth, so why do we need to brush them?
  • How are we going to survive when we take away the pacifier?
  • And, of course: When should we schedule the baby’s first dental appointment?

Your Hackensack, NJ pediatric dentists at State Street Smiles are here to help answer these and any other questions you have about caring for your baby’s teeth the right way.

Scheduling Your Baby’s First Visit to the Dentist

We typically recommend scheduling your baby’s first visit for pediatric dentistry between 6 months and a year old—or about when that first little tooth appears. During that first visit, we will try to help you and your baby feel comfortable with the idea of visiting the dentist and answer all the questions you have about your baby’s dental health. This visit is so important for you and your baby, but also for us! Here are some things you can do to prepare:

Prepare a List of Questions

We are here to answer all of them. No question about your child’s dental health is stupid, so do not be afraid to ask us anything! Some of the most common things we discuss with parents include:

  • Preventing tooth decay from bottle feeding
  • How to clean baby teeth and gums
  • Tips and tricks for surviving teething
  • Pacifier weening
  • What to do if the thumb replaces the pacifier
  • So many more!

Your Baby’s Medical History

Let us know about your baby’s medical history so we can be ready for whatever treatments might be needed. Usually, this first appointment is all about getting to know each other, feeling comfortable, and teaching parents home oral health techniques for your baby’s growing set of chompers.

Visit Your Pediatric Dentists in Bergen County

Don’t worry! Your baby’s first dental appointment at State Street Smiles in Hackensack is designed to instill comfort, confidence, and education! The dentist will check the gums, bite, the tooth (or teeth), and the jaws very gently to get an idea of growth and development. We’ll answer your questions and give you tips on helping your baby embark on a lifetime of healthy smiles! So, if that little tooth has erupted, schedule your baby’s first dental appointment today!