Children’s Dentistry

Your Child’s First Visit to the Dentist

Your child’s first dental visit is a significant milestone in their journey to maintaining a healthy smile. At our Metairie dental office, we recommend that the first “regular” dental visit occur shortly after your child’s third birthday. This initial visit with Dr. Simone is usually brief and involves minimal treatment, designed to help your child feel comfortable in the dental environment.

During the visit, our staff at Joseph P. Simone Family Dentistry may ask you to sit in the dental chair and hold your child during the examination. In some cases, we might suggest that you wait in the reception area for part of the visit so that your child can begin to build a relationship with our dentist. Our goal is to make this experience as positive and stress-free as possible.

What to Expect During the First Visit

We will gently examine your child’s teeth and gums, checking for any signs of decay or other issues. If necessary, X-rays may be taken to evaluate the development of your child’s permanent teeth beneath the gums. We may also clean your child’s teeth and apply topical fluoride to protect against decay. Additionally, we will ensure that your child is receiving adequate fluoride at home and will review proper cleaning and care techniques with you.

Preparing Your Child for Their First Dental Visit

Parents often ask us how to prepare their child for the first dental visit. We suggest approaching it as you would any new experience, such as a first haircut or a trip to the shoe store. Your child’s reaction to their first visit to the dentist may surprise you, so it’s best to keep the preparation positive and light-hearted.

Here are some helpful “First Visit” Tips:

  • Take your child for a “preview” of our Metairie dental office.
  • Read books with them about going to the dentist.
  • Explain in simple terms what the dentist will do during the visit.
  • Speak positively about your own experiences at the dentist.

Preventative Care: Building a Foundation for Good Oral Health

At Joseph P. Simone Family Dentistry, we emphasize the importance of preventive care to ensure your child enjoys a lifetime of healthy teeth. One of the most effective preventive measures we offer is the application of dental sealants. These space-age plastics are bonded to the chewing surfaces of your child’s back teeth, where cavities are most likely to develop. This simple procedure can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay.

Cavity Prevention Tips

Cavities are often the result of a diet high in sugary foods and poor brushing habits. To help prevent cavities, limit your child’s intake of sugary snacks and encourage regular brushing. The longer food residue stays on your child’s teeth, the greater the risk of cavities. Here are some tips for preventing cavities:

  • Limit meal and snack frequency: Try to keep meals and snacks to a minimum to reduce the amount of time teeth are exposed to sugars.
  • Encourage good oral hygiene: Teach your child to brush, floss, and rinse regularly.
  • Monitor drinks: Be mindful of what your child drinks, avoiding sugary beverages whenever possible.
  • Avoid sticky foods: Foods that stick to the teeth can increase the risk of cavities.
  • Incorporate treats into meals: If your child is having sweets, it’s better to include them as part of a meal rather than as a separate snack.
  • Choose nutritious snacks: Opt for healthier snack options that are less likely to contribute to tooth decay.

Understanding Your Child’s Dental Development

The first baby teeth to appear are usually the two bottom front teeth, which emerge when your baby is around 6-8 months old. This is followed by the four upper front teeth, with the remaining teeth appearing periodically in pairs along the sides of the jaw until your child is about 2 1/2 years old. By this age, your child should have all 20 primary teeth.

Around the age of 5 or 6, the first permanent teeth begin to erupt, with some replacing baby teeth and others not. Don’t worry if some teeth are a few months early or late, as all children develop at their own pace.

Baby teeth are important for more than just chewing and biting—they also play a crucial role in speech development, appearance, and holding space for permanent teeth. Maintaining a healthy diet and daily oral hygiene is essential for keeping these teeth in good condition.

At our Metairie dental office, we are committed to helping your child achieve and maintain a healthy smile through comprehensive dental care and education. For more information on your child’s dental health, call Joseph P. Simone Family Dentistry at 504-456-0964 to schedule a consultation.