Keeping the teeth and gums clean and strong is essential to promoting dental health regardless of one’s age. 

If you are a parent or a guardian, you might be wondering about when you should take your child to the dentist for the first time. It is understandable to think that brushing alone can keep their teeth healthy. Yet, you may also worry that your child would cry or throw tantrums during the dental appointment because of the unfamiliarity of a dental clinic. However, it is best to bring your child to the dentist so that they can detect early signs of dental problems and address them immediately.

As your go-to team of reliable pediatric dentists in Edmonton, we are passionate about boosting the dental health of your child. In this article, we will share with you a guide to help your child have a smooth first dental experience.

What Are the Dental Warning Signs You Should Look out For?

Baby teeth help your child to chew food properly and obtain the nutrients their body needs. Teeth are essential to the growth and development of your child, which is why you should take care of them and seek help from experienced dentists for outstanding dental services.

If you notice the following dental warning signs, do not hesitate to take your child in for a dental visit:

 

1. Toothache

 

Crying is a way that your baby communicates with you. While your child cannot communicate with you yet through words, they may be trying to tell you about their pain through their tears and grunts. If they cry all the time, then it is possible that they are in pain. If you want to confirm whether or not they are experiencing a toothache, visit your pediatric dentist right away.

 

2. Swollen or bleeding gums

 

Plaque buildup can lead to swollen or bleeding gums. Make sure to get in touch with a pediatric dentist immediately if you spot any abnormalities with your child’s gums.

 

3. Discoloured teeth

 

Discoloured teeth are another warning sign of a more severe dental issue. They can be caused by bacteria and cavity buildup, and may even lead to tooth decay.

What Should You Expect at Your Child’s First Dental Appointment?

Being in an unfamiliar environment for the first time, such as in a dental clinic, can make your child feel anxious and uncomfortable. Don’t panic if your child cries in the clinic because the dental staff members are trained to calm children down and handle such situations. Also, if your child is hesitant to sit still on their own on the dental chair, then it is advisable to have them sit on your lap instead.

The pediatric dentist will then examine their teeth and gums as well as the jaw and bite to look for any signs of tooth problems and other issues that may affect their speech pattern. Afterward, they will share with you some helpful tips on how to improve your child’s oral hygiene habits.

Conclusion

If this will be your first time bringing your child for a dental appointment, you now know the dental warning signs to look out for and what to expect during the visit. Bringing them to the clinic will let them have enjoyable dental experiences that will serve as their foundation for excellent oral health as they grow older.

Rely only on dependable dentists whom you can trust. At our pediatric dental clinic in Edmonton, we have the necessary training and experience as well as pieces of equipment and facilities to address the dental needs of your child. Contact us today to book a dental visit!

Posted in Dental News & Advice