For parents, caring for their children and making sure that they are growing up strong and healthy becomes second nature with time.To ensure that, it is important to understand that your child’s overall well-being is dependent on so many different things- both physical and mental. When it comes to physical health, parents must look into their little one’s nutrition, eye sight, dental health, activity levels, and immunity to keep the little ones strong and healthy.
Starting dental checkups early on is one such crucial step to help limit cavities in children and maintain their dental health. Studies in the United Arab Emirates show that about 80 percent of 2 to 5-year-olds have cavities. To help children stay on course with their dental development and limit the chances of getting dental caries, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, AAPD, and other global dental associations urge parents to take their little ones to their first dentist appointment around the time of their first birthday.
pediatric dentists also recommend brushing your child’s teeth using toothpaste with fluoride to help strengthen the teeth. Practicing good dental routines at home and visiting a trusted pediatric dentist for regular checkups will ensure that your child’s smile stays strong, healthy, and beautiful.
In this article, we will tell you what to expect during your child’s first visit to a pediatric dental clinic in Dubai.
Your child’s first dental appointment
Babies usually show signs of teething around the age of 6 months. The lower front teeth (incisors) are usually the first ones to come, between the ages of 6 to 10 months. The upper incisors typically come a few months behind. With that said, your little one may get their first teeth faster or slower than this particular window of time. Some children may not get any teeth before their first birthday. Even so, it’s nothing to worry about.
Ideally, you should take your child for their first appointment when their first tooth appears. If it’s delayed, take your child for a checkup around the age of 1. The pediatric dentist will then evaluate them to make sure their oral development is on track and there aren’t any other factors affecting the delay.
- How to prepare your child
On deciding your child’s pediatric dentist, you can go ahead and schedule an appointment at a time that’s most comfortable for you and your baby. Mornings are considered the best time for pediatric dental appointments as the young patients will be fresh and alert at the time.
If you have missed out on your child’s dental appointment at the age of one and are now bringing a toddler or preschooler for their first checkup, bring some entertainment such as books or toys to keep them engaged while waiting at the clinic. This will also help alleviate any anxiety they have about visiting a dentist. Build some excitement and use it as a teaching opportunity to help them understand more about teeth and why they should be kept clean and healthy.
- How to navigate a dental checkup as a parent
Sometimes, parents may also have dental anxieties and may worry about visiting the pediatric dental clinic. To best navigate this situation, take some time to prepare yourself. Be careful not to let your feelings and anxieties get in the way of your child’s appointment. You can be honest with your child’s pediatric dentist and share your concerns with them before the checkup. This will help the specialist to better understand you and your child beforehand and proceed accordingly.
- How to be helpful during the checkup
Your kid’s dentist is a skilled professional who can manage their dental anxieties and tantrums to some extent. To ensure that the checkup goes smoothly, there are a few things you can do from your end.
Start by sharing your child’s complete health history. If required, be ready to answer questions about their feeding patterns and other oral habits. If your child is easily spooked by new things or has sensory issues, make sure to let the dentist know beforehand.
Additionally, be present and mindful during the checkup by watching how your child is reacting. Babies and toddlers between the ages of 10 to 24 months may show some anxiety if they are taken away from their primary caregiver. You are welcome to stay near your child throughout the checkup to keep them calm. Better yet, your child can be seen on the dental chair safely sitting on your lap. This has been proven to help a baby or a toddler cooperate better.
- The dental checkup
The first dental appointment is more of an educational visit rather than a medical one. The pediatric dentist will examine your child’s teeth and recommend brushing techniques. As your child’s pediatric dentist has additional training beyond dental school, they understand how to make children feel calm and keep them happy and engaged during the checkup using lots of psychological tips and tricks. These specialists are knowledgeable about unique dental concerns that arise in early childhood as bottle decay, pacifier, and finger sucking. So feel free to talk to them regarding anything that will help you preserve your little one’s healthy smile.
What next?
Just like adults, children should see their pediatric dental specialist every 6 months. Sometimes your kid’s pediatric dentist may schedule visits more often such as every 3 months, to help your child build confidence with the idea of dental checkups. Frequent visits are also recommended for children who show signs of dental problems such as cavities which need to be treated right away.
To book your appointment with Dubai’s best pediatric dentists, visit My Pedia Clinic website today.
