At Salthouse Smiles in Des Peres, MO, we take pride in caring for the smiles of our youngest residents in the St. Louis metropolitan area. We are here to guide you and your child through their first dental experience.
The Right Age for the First Dental Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends your child’s first dental visit occur when their first tooth appears or by their first birthday. This might seem early, but cavities can begin as soon as teeth emerge. Early dental visits allow us to guide your child on a path to lifelong oral health, fostering good habits and catching potential problems before they become serious issues.
What to Expect at Your Child’s First Visit
Understanding what to expect can help ease any concerns about your child’s first visit to Salthouse Smiles:
A Warm Welcome: From our reception to our dental chair, we’ll ensure you and your child feel comfortable and well-informed every step of the way.
Dental History and Growth Assessment: Dr. Salthouse, a pediatric dentist, will examine your child’s dental development, review any medical history, and discuss habits like pacifier use and thumb sucking.
A Gentle Examination: This includes looking at your child’s teeth, jaw, bite, gums, and oral tissues to monitor growth and development and catch any potential problems early.
Cleaning and Fluoride Application: Depending on your child’s comfort and age, a gentle cleaning may be done to remove any plaque or tartar, followed by a fluoride application to protect teeth.
Education and Discussion: We believe in empowering parents with information. We’ll discuss teething, proper cleaning methods, diet, and oral health tips, and answer any questions you have.
Planning Ahead: If no issues are identified, we’ll schedule the next regular visit in six months, fostering the habit of biannual visits.
At Salthouse Smiles in Des Peres, MO, we’re more than just a pediatric dental practice. We aim to be a resource for Des Peres families to prevent oral health diseases and increase access to pediatric dental care. We look forward to welcoming your family into our dental home and embarking on a journey of lifelong oral health together.
