The Importance of Early Dental Visits
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child’s first dental visit take place within six months of their first tooth emerging, or by their first birthday. Infant exams are an essential step in laying the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles. We know life as a new parent can feel overwhelming. At Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry, our goal is to make this visit comfortable for both you and your baby, and to ensure your child’s very first dental experience is a positive one.
Why Start So Early?
Early dental visits are key to identifying potential concerns that could affect your child’s oral development, such as early (incipient) cavities or bite issues caused by habits such as finger-sucking or pacifier use.
During these visits, we:
- Assess how your child’s teeth are developing
- Provide guidance on stopping harmful habits at the right time
- Identify your child’s unique risk for cavities
- Recommend the best schedule for checkups and preventive care
Infant exams also give us the opportunity to support parents with practical advice on teething, daily oral hygiene, preventing oral injuries, and personalized strategies to keep your child’s smile healthy from the start.
A Strong Start for a Healthy Future
Children who develop cavities in their baby teeth are more likely to experience cavities in their permanent teeth. That is why it is so important to monitor their oral health early and often. Regular visits allow us to clean teeth, apply protective fluoride varnish, and take proactive steps to greatly reduce the risk of future dental problems.
At Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry, we believe prevention is the best treatment—and starting early gives your child the best chance at a lifetime of healthy teeth.
What to Expect During an Infant Exam
What to Expect at Your Baby’s First Visit
Infant exams at Little Pearls Pediatric Dentistry are gentle and efficient. Dr. Mary Margaret will take a quick look in your baby’s mouth to assess growth and development and ensure the gums and surrounding tissues are healthy.
During this visit, we will also spend time talking with you about how to care for your baby’s teeth at home—covering everything from brushing techniques to how diet can affect dental health.
A Comfortable Experience for You and Your Baby
We know that new experiences can sometimes feel overwhelming—for parents and babies alike! That is why we take extra care to make sure both of you feel relaxed and at ease. Our goal is to make your child’s very first dental visit a positive one, building confidence for future appointments.
