Your child should visit a dentist by their first birthday or within 6 months of their first tooth coming in. Early visits help prevent cavities and teach good habits. The dentist will check your child’s teeth and gums, and show you how to clean them properly. Regular checkups keep your child’s smile healthy as they grow.
During your child’s first dental visit, we’ll do a gentle checkup of their teeth and gums. We might count their teeth and look for any signs of problems. The visit is usually short and simple to help your child feel comfortable and build a positive experience with the dentist.
If your child is afraid of the dentist, try to stay calm and positive when talking about the visit. You can read them books about visiting the dentist or play pretend to show what happens. Lastly, choose a gentle dentist who understands kids.
A dental sealant is a special coating that is applied to the surface of back teeth. They help protect teeth from cavities by keeping food and germs out of the grooves. Many children benefit from dental sealants, especially those with deep grooves in their teeth or who have a history of cavities. Our dentist can help you determine whether dental sealants might be right for your child.
If your child has a dental emergency, stay calm and evaluate the situation. If there’s bleeding, apply pressure with a clean cloth. For a knocked-out tooth, gently rinse it and try to place it back or store it in milk. Contact your dentist immediately for guidance and an urgent appointment.
At Southern Comfort Pediatric Dentistry, we’re proud to be an in-network provider for many Preferred Provider Option (PPO) dental insurance plans, including Medicaid. Contact us today to learn more about your dental insurance coverage and how we can work with your provider for your child’s next appointment. We also offer flexible financing options to make your child’s dental care accessible for your family.