Welcome to the world, beautiful baby
First tooth, first visit
First tooth first visit or by age 1 sums it up. A first visit happens when the first tooth comes in, usually between 6 and 12 months of age. This early year's visit accomplishes two things: First, it establishes a dental home for your child; somewhere they feel safe, cared for and comfortable going as they grow. Second, this visit starts the journey in protecting your child's smile now and for the future. If your child has turned 1 and no teeth have erupted, it is also best to visit the dentist to check in on what those pearly whites are up to.
Tongue Ties
A tongue-tie can be present at birth; it restricts the tongue's range of motion. With tongue-tie, an unusually short, thick or tight band of tissue tethers the bottom of the tongue's tip to the floor of the mouth, so it may interfere with breast-feeding as a new born or licking ice cream from a cone as a child. Our Pediatric Dentists assess newborns for tongue ties and when it makes sense can do a simple in office release.
What does the first visit look like?
We have a special new patient room just for you! The dental chair can be a hard part of a first visit, so instead of a typical dental room with a dental chair, you and your infant hang out on a reclining bench where they can snuggle in your lap for the whole visit, even during teeth counting. The first visit with your infant is all about learning. We give you all the tips and tricks on brushing and flossing techniques, help you prepare what is to come as your child's teeth develop, and how to best protect and ensure healthy teeth and habits.
How do I brush at home?
Starting at birth, clean your child's gums with a soft infant toothbrush or cloth and water. As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily with a soft, age- appropriate sized toothbrush. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively. As Dr. Daniel likes to say, if your child is still struggling to eat with a knife and fork like royalty or tying their shoes, than they still need help brushing their teeth! Some tips to tooth brushing - brush wherever, and do it lying down!