Children’s Dentist in East Islip Reveals the Right Time For Your Child’s First Visit

As a parent, there’s always a lot to think about when it comes to your child’s health and well-being, and their oral health is no exception. Many parents wonder when it’s the right time for a first dental visit? At East Islip Dental Care, your children’s dentist in East Islip, we recommend that children have their first appointment at around age three, unless parents have any concerns early on. At this age, we can comfortably communicate with your child and help them to feel safe and welcome in the dental chair.

What Happens During the First Visit?

When your child first visits East Islip Dental Care, we take a lot of time talking with them and the atmosphere is upbeat. They will “ride” in the dental chair and our dentists will count and examine their teeth.

Most children feel comfortable having a cleaning at age three; however, we never move forward with any type of procedure until your child is completely ready for it. Our goal is to create positive experiences at the dentist with the hope that your son or daughter will look forward to their visits with us.

Caring for Your Little One’s Teeth Prior to Visiting the Dentist

Your baby’s oral care should begin even before their first teeth arrive. Use a warm wash cloth to wipe down their gums after meals. This helps remove any bacteria that may be lingering in their mouth.

When their first teeth arrive, begin to brush them with a soft toothbrush designed for infants after each meal. You can use a small amount of toothpaste that is safe to swallow if you like.

As they reach age two to three years old, they can begin brushing on their own with follow-up after from you so they start to get the hang of it.

Additional Recommendations for Children

As your child gets older, your dentist in East Islip may recommend some additional services for them such as:

• Fluoride treatment: Helps to build developing teeth and remineralize teeth affected by tooth decay.
• Dental sealants: A thin protective coating applied to the chewing surfaces of your child’s molars and pre-molars. Sealants help to defend against the bacteria and acids that cause tooth decay.

If your child chooses to participate in sports, your dentist can recommend the right protective wear to prevent injuries to their teeth and mouth.

We look forward to building a relationship with your child and caring for them for many years to come! Give East Islip Dental Care a call today if it’s time for your child’s next dental visit.

About the Author

Dr. Gary Rosenfeld has spent more than 33 years providing exceptional dental care to families in East Islip, NY. For your comfort and convenience, he has gathered a team of talented dentists at East Islip Dental Care who provide comprehensive care to patients seven days a week, so we can accommodate any hectic schedule.

If you would like to contact Dr. Rosenfeld, he can be reached through his website or by calling 631-581-8600.