If you’re wondering what to expect during the initialexam with a dentist for infants in McKinney, you’re not alone. Many first-timeparents, especially, wonder what a dentist could possibly be looking for ortreating when only a few teeth are present. But this important visit will setthe stage for positive experiences and healthy habits as your child grows anddevelops over the years. Read on to find out what you can expect from thisfirst visit and how Dr. Justin and Dr. Sage will work to make your child comfortableand at ease during their appointment.

What is Expected During the First Exam?

Dr. Justin and Dr. Sage believe in the philosophy ofestablishing a dental home and a lifetime of care. When bringing your child infor their first exam, the most important step is to create a trusting andwelcoming relationship between your little one and the dental team. Do not bealarmed if your baby seems a bit fussy or unsure, as all of the sights, sounds,and faces are unfamiliar, but rest assured, with a gentle touch and calmingdemeanor, your child’s pediatric dentist in McKinney will make them feelcomfortable and at ease throughout the visit. At Sprout Dentistry for Kids, weaim to ease your child’s introduction to the dental office setting with ourcomforting visual exam rooms that were envisioned and designed to feel morelike a nursery without all of the possibly intimidating dental equipment. Theserooms also serve as a private area where mothers can nurse their infantsimmediately after lip and tongue-tie release procedures.

It is important that you give your child’s dentist athorough explanation of their oral and overall health history, as this will bebeneficial when examining and treating any possible problems as well as alertDr. Justin or Dr. Sage to any special needs your child may have.

After introductions, the dentist will perform a quick examand cleaning. The dentist will check their teeth, jaw, bite, gums, and softtissues to ensure everything is growing and developing properly and no decay ordisease is present.

What Useful Tips or Suggestions Will You Receive?

During any visit, Dr. Justin or Dr. Sage will be happy toprovide parents with suggested in-house treatments as well as tips to care fortheir baby’s teeth and gums at home. Some of these might include:

• Topical Fluoride Varnish Treatments: Byallowing your child’s dentist to apply this type of treatment, you can protectyour little one’s teeth from dental caries (cavities) as well as strengthentooth enamel.
• Good Oral Hygiene At-Home Habits: Fromhow to brush a baby’s teeth and gums to how much toothpaste should be used, Dr.Justin and Dr. Sage can provide recommendations on products and how to bestcare for your child’s teeth at home.
• Breaking Bad Habits: Your child’s dentistcan provide tips on how to stop thumb sucking, pacifier use, and bottle feedingat night.
• Teething: As your child’s teeth continueto erupt, it’s likely they’ll experience discomfort. The dentist can provideuseful suggestions on ways to care for a teething baby and how to help themfind relief.
• Options for treating early dental decay: Aswith most problems, dental decay is best treated when addressed early on in thedisease process. We can spot early signs of decay and address them before theyworsen and potentially need to be treated surgically. For children with decay thatwould benefit from buying some time before treatment can be completed, SilverDiamine Fluoride may be a very good option to attempt to stop the progressionof the decay non-surgically until restorations can be completed.

Your child’s first dental appointment is very important. Notonly will it help build rapport with their oral healthcare team, it will also setthem up for a lifetime of positive experiences at the dentist’s office, but itwill always put them on the right path to better oral health.

About the Authors
At Sprout Dentistry for Kids, Dr. Justin Chan and Dr. Sage Yoo believe in the importance of caring for your child’s oral and overall health. Offering comprehensive services to care for the dental needs of all patients, they take pride in providing the highest level of quality care even to the youngest members of your family. From infancy to adulthood, you can trust that your child’s teeth, gums, and overall well-being are in the best hands with Dr. Justin and Dr. Sage. To learn more about our services, visit our website or call (469) 301-3212.