
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends the first dental visit occur within six months after the first tooth appears, but no laterthan your child’s first birthday. Mid-Michigan Pediatric Dentistry has established an Infant Oral Health exam program to encourage oral screenings at a young age for the following reasons:
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Starting early is the key to a lifetime of good dental health.
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Cavities are almost completely preventable through proper nutrition, hygiene, and fluoride supplementation.
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Early treatment of dental caries avoids future pain and discomfort.
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Baby teeth are important in chewing and speech and hold space in the jaws for the adult teeth.
During an infant oral health exam visit at Mid-Michigan Pediatric Dentistry, our doctors will do the following:
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Review medical and dental histories,
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Give a complete oral exam to check growth and development, oral hygiene, injuries, cavities or other problems,
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Determine your child’s risk of developing tooth decay,
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Provide suggestions for daily oral care including tooth brush instruction,
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Evaluate your child’s fluoride needs to optimize the preventive benefits,
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Apply fluoride varnish when needed,
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Review feeding practices that may lead to tooth decay,
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Discuss teething, pacifier use, or finger/thumb sucking habits,
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Talk with you about common dental injuries and what to do if one happens,
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Discuss treatment if needed and schedule the next check-up.