when to schedule your child's first dental visit with your Oakville dentist

Parents have so many things to think about in the first years of their children's lives. Children are constantly developing and learning, making life extremely exciting, and also extremely busy. One of the questions many parents have is when their child should begin seeing the dentist.

The truth is, oral hygiene begins even before your child's first dental visit with your Oakville area dentist. It is easy to think that dental care does not need to begin until teeth have erupted at six months to one year of age. In the mouth, however, oral bacteria naturally exist. In an infant's mouth, unmanaged bacteria can impact the health of developing teeth. Early cleanings are very simple. After feedings, an infant's gums and tongue can be gently cleaned with a soft, moist cloth.

Once teeth begin to sprout through the gums, it is time to bring your child in to our office for evaluation. Early dental care is essential to developing teeth in more ways than one. The focus of early dental care is not to correct dental problems, but to prevent them from stealing your child's happy, healthy smile. During routine care we discuss with parents how to care for their child's teeth, and how to teach their child to care for teeth and gums when the time comes.

In our practice, children receive gentle preventive dental care in a warm and nurturing environment. Our dental team understands the role we play in helping children form their attitude towards dentistry, an attitude that will likely stay with them for life. Regular cleanings keep teeth shiny and free of plaque, and dental treatments such as fluoride or dental sealants protect teeth from cavity development.

In addition to providing excellent preventive treatments, we also offer the guidance that parents may need to facilitate oral health in their children by discussing healthy choices in food and beverage choices, as well as eating habits, such as nighttime feedings for infants.

Children's dentistry is an exciting field to our team. We believe in creating the most positive experiences for all of our patients, regardless of age, but also see the unique opportunity we have with young patients to develop lifelong habits for oral health.

Schedule your child's dental visit by contacting Burloak Centre Dentistry at 905.581.4436.