Age 1 First Visit

Attleboro Pediatric Dentistry sees patients around the age of one for their first dental visit in Attleboro, MA. Call 508-409-6160 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.

The American Academy of Pediatrics and Pediatric Dentistry recommend that children have their first dental checkup around the age of one or within 6 months of the eruption of their first tooth, whichever comes first. It is important to get an early oral and dental health screening to ensure that the teeth that have come in are healthy, as well as the soft tissues of the mouth. 

The first dental visit involves an introduction to the dentist and a brief examination of the teeth and mouth. We will only do what you and your baby are comfortable with at the first appointment. The goal is to establish positive feelings toward dental visits from a young age to set the tone for a lifetime of dental health. Regular dental visits should continue every 6 months going forward. 

At your child's initial visit, Dr. Hannawi-Tadros will perform your baby’s first oral examination and will review infant oral hygiene. In some cases, she will clean your baby’s teeth and apply a topical fluoride. The extent of the examination will depend entirely on you and your child’s comfort level.

We make your baby’s first dental visit as comfortable as possible. We never use force or restraint to provide dental care. Our goal is to help children view the dentist in a positive light so that it can be something they enjoy instead of fear. We know how to talk to children in a way that puts them at ease and makes their experience fun.

We provide the latest technology in pediatric dentistry equipment, including tools that are quieter and gentler on teeth with minimal vibrations. This helps to minimize discomfort and reduce the sensory stimulation that dental equipment can produce. This is especially helpful for patients with autism spectrum disorder and related conditions that can be easily overstimulated.

Attleboro Pediatric Dentistry treats patients and their families like family, always friendly and courteous. We get to know you and your child(ren) and enjoy seeing you twice a year for regular dental checkups and cleanings.

Dental and oral health problems can occur at any age. From the first day a tooth is showing above the gums it is susceptible to plaque and decay. Even when there are no teeth present, the gums and other soft tissues of the mouth can develop conditions that need to be addressed.

Dental insurance typically covers preventive dentistry, which includes twice yearly appointments for dental cleanings and exams. If your baby is covered under a dental insurance plan, their first visit will likely be covered as well as other routine visits. Contact your dental insurance provider or refer to your benefits guide for more specific information about your plan and coverage.

Although baby teeth are shed eventually, they still serve many important functions. Baby teeth allow children to develop chewing capabilities and are integral in speech development. They also serve as placeholders for the permanent teeth that will come in after them. Children will have their baby teeth for many years and it is important to take care of those teeth until they are ready to be shed. 

Children all develop at different rates, and tooth eruption is one milestone that children reach at different ages. The average age for tooth eruption is between 6 and 12 months, but it may take a little longer for some children to get teeth. There is no reason to worry, but it is still a good idea to make a dental appointment by age one even if there are no visible teeth.

We will do our best to make your baby’s first appointment as relaxing as possible. We won’t push you or your baby to do anything you’re not comfortable with. It can take time and patience for babies to reach a level of comfort that allows them to be open to a dental exam.

To learn more, call 508-409-6160 or contact us today to schedule an appointment.