Age 1 to 2 VisitsAt Smile Kids! Pediatric Dentistry we're committed to helping you and your child on the path to excellent oral health. There is no time more important to lay a solid foundation for your child's gorgeous smile than the first two years of their life. Here is a quick cheat sheet on how we can help during these critical years and why they are so important. The Initial ExamWe consider your baby’s initial exam to be one of the most important services we provide. While it might seem a little strange to schedule an appointment when your child only has a single tooth, but it’s a chance for us to get to know both you and your baby and start a relationship that will last throughout your child’s oral development. Remember, the first visit should always be no later than your child’s first birthday. Later VisitsLike adults, kids should see a dentist once every six months. It is essential that during these first couple years, we have the chance to track your baby’s development and keep an eye out for recurring problems like frenum issues and bottle carries that can cause speech delays if not treated. Just like the initial exam, we try to keep these visits quick and to the point. We know your baby has important things to do! Why Early Visits Are so ImportantTooth decay does not wait, and neither should you. As soon as your child’s first tooth erupts, it’s at risk for decay, cavities, and infections. When left untreated, these issues could spread and even infect a child’s permanent teeth. While it might not seem a big deal if a child loses one of their baby teeth - it was going to fall out anyway after all - but baby teeth serve a significant role as space savers in the gums. If that space isn’t saved, the adult teeth can grow in crooked, misaligned, and overcrowded. Your baby’s speech and facial development can suffer, and even things like chewing and biting can become difficult for them. How to Prepare for Early VisitsWe believe that there’s no better way to prepare your child for their first dental visit than by talking to them. Prepare them with songs, fun videos, and positive stories. Get in the habit of brushing by turning it into a game. Sometimes though, even all the preparation in the world won’t stop a child in a fussy mood, and that’s okay! We are used to dealing with kids at their best and worst and know how to be patient and welcoming. And by starting your visits early, you’re giving your child a head start on becoming familiar and comfortable with the experience of coming to see us. Schedule Your First Visit TodayHere at Smile Kids! Pediatric Dentistry we want to solve your child’s dental problems before they ever become problems. We take great pride when it comes to guiding parents through these pivotal years, so give us a call today at (276) 663-0065 and find out how we can help you. |
Phone(276) 663-0065 HoursMon: 9:30am - 4pm Tues: 9:30am - 4pm Wed: 9:30am - 4pm Thurs: 9:30am - 4pm Friday: 9:30am - 4pm Saturday: We are open one Saturday a month by appointment. We are closed for federal Holidays. |