Should I bring my baby to the dentist?

Pediatric dentist Dr. Cameron Zealand at North Calgary Pediatric Dentistry:

"As a new parent, it's natural to have many questions and concerns about your baby's health and well-being, including their dental health. One question that many parents ask is whether they should bring their baby to the dentist and when is the best time to start. In this blog post, we will explore why it's important to take your baby to the dentist, when you should start, and what could happen if you don't prioritize regular dental care for your child."

• They help your child chew and speak properly
• They maintain the space for permanent teeth to grow
• They play a crucial role in your child's overall facial development

• Tooth decay: Baby teeth are just as susceptible to tooth decay as permanent teeth, and failing to properly care for your child's teeth can result in painful cavities and other dental problems. If left untreated, tooth decay can cause infections, tooth loss, and other complications.
• Gum disease: Poor oral hygiene can also lead to gum disease, which can cause inflammation, bleeding, and eventually tooth loss if left untreated.
• Speech problems: Baby teeth play an important role in helping children develop proper speech patterns. If dental issues are interfering with your child's ability to speak, they may struggle with communication, socialization, and self-esteem.
• Nutritional deficiencies: Dental problems can make it difficult for children to eat and enjoy a balanced, nutritious diet. This can result in nutritional deficiencies and other health complications.
• Fear and anxiety: If a child has a negative experience at the dentist, they may develop a fear or anxiety surrounding dental visits. This can make it challenging for parents to ensure that their child receives proper dental care, and can lead to further oral health issues down the line.

1. Specialized Training: Pediatric dentists have additional specialized training beyond dental school, which focuses specifically on the oral health needs of infants, children, and adolescents. This training enables them to provide the most appropriate care for each stage of a child’s dental development.
2. Experience with Children: Pediatric dentists have experience working with children, and they understand how to communicate with them effectively. They are trained to create a friendly, non-threatening, and comfortable environment to help children feel at ease during their dental visits.
3. Knowledge of Child Development: Pediatric dentists are knowledgeable about child development and can identify and address oral health issues that may be related to developmental changes. They can also provide guidance to parents on how to promote good oral health habits and prevent dental problems in children.
4. Specialized Equipment: Pediatric dentists use specialized equipment that is designed specifically for children, such as smaller dental chairs and instruments. This helps to ensure that children are comfortable during their dental procedures and that the treatment is delivered safely and effectively.
5. Early Intervention: Pediatric dentists can identify and treat dental problems in children at an early stage, which can help prevent more serious dental issues from developing later on. They also offer preventative treatments such as fluoride applications, dental sealants, and regular checkups to keep children’s teeth healthy and strong.