Time to go to the dentist! Every parent knows that babies need a lot of TLC to grow up happy and healthy. From feeding them nutritious foods to ensuring they are bathed and cleaned, parents must tend to every aspect of caring for their little ones.
One area that is often overlooked is dental care. After all, children eventually lose their first set of teeth, right? Pediatric dental care is extremely important, and something to be considered even before baby cuts his first tooth. There are products available, such as small toothbrushes that fit on a fingertip, that help get a child accustomed to the brushing routine while gently cleaning the gums and keeping them healthy.
Around 1 year old is a good time to schedule a child’s first dental appointment. A general rule is to visit a pediatric dentist within about six months of the first tooth coming through. If there are concerns beforehand, such as discolored teeth, it’s best to contact the dentist sooner rather than later.
Once the baby teeth begin poking through the gums, parents should start brushing the toddler’s teeth and gums at least twice a day with a small, age-appropriate toothbrush and non-fluoridated toothpaste recommended by the dentist. Continue this routine until the child learns to spit out toothpaste properly. This will keep the teeth in great shape until they naturally fall out to make way for permanent adult teeth—while also helping maintain a bright, healthy smile.
The thought of taking a little one to the dentist might sound daunting, but that shouldn’t be the case. Little ones don’t know about drills or root canals. They get to sit in a chair that goes up and down and have someone look at their smile! Parents should express enthusiasm for going to the dentist rather than fear.
The first routine dental visit gives the dentist a chance to meet the child and have a very casual meeting, focusing more on getting the kids used to the dentist’s chair and educating the parents. The dentist will check the teeth, gums, bite, jaw, and look for any tooth decay. The dentist also may clean the child’s teeth, or may opt to do this on the second visit.
After a discussion about good oral hygiene, a family dentist may answer any questions a parent or child may have about the visit or their teeth. Some common topics discussed include teething, appropriate foods, and thumb sucking.
Routine dental checkups are typically recommended every six months unless additional care is needed. Regular visits help monitor development, prevent issues, and ensure your child maintains good oral health as they grow.
At Norge Dental Center, our experienced family dentists provide expert care and guidance to support your child’s oral health. From your child’s first visit through every stage of development, our team is here to help ensure a positive dental experience and a healthy foundation for lifelong oral health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the next step in caring for your child’s smile.
Summer brings plenty of opportunities to enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables, whether you are shopping at a local farmers market, grilling with family, or spending the day outdoors. While most people know that brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are important, many do not realize that certain foods can also support good oral health.At Norge Dental Center, we believe healthy habits start with everyday choices. Adding nutrient rich fruits and vegetables to your diet can help support healthy teeth and gums while giving your body the vitamins and minerals it needs.
Read MoreFor a long time, dental health was treated like it lived on an island, completely separate from the rest of our physical health. We used to think that what happened in the mouth stayed in the mouth, but modern medicine has completely flipped that script.Today, we know that your oral health is actually a major window into your overall well-being. When you take care of your teeth and gums, you are doing so much more than just keeping your breath fresh and your smile bright for photos. You are actively protecting your heart, your brain, and your immune system.The connection between your mouth and the rest of your body comes down to a single, powerful concept: systemic inflammation.
Read MoreLet’s be completely honest for a second. Around here, coffee isn’t just a morning beverage—it’s a lifestyle. If you’ve walked into Norge Dental Center early in the morning, you’ve probably smelled it brewing, and you’ve definitely seen our team clutching our favorite mugs like they hold the secrets to the universe.We love coffee. We need coffee.But as much as we worship the bean, we also worship a healthy smile. And unfortunately, some of the most common daily coffee habits are secretly wrecking your teeth.
Read MoreWhether you’re new to the Williamsburg area, or new to the Norge Dental family… we welcome you to a new dental experience. We are so thankful you are here.
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