WEBVTT

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Is it time for your child's

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first visit to the dentist?

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The American Dental Association

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and the American Academy

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of Pediatric Dentistry

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recommend that your child

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have their first dental visit

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within six months

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of the eruption of the baby's

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first tooth,

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but no later than the child's

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first birthday.

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Even if it seems like

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your child's teeth are growing in

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as they should,

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it's important to start his or her

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dental checkups early.

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These checkups help to ensure

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that your child's smile is healthy

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and that you learn about oral

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hygiene, proper diet, fluoride,

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and other factors

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that can help to prevent problems

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like cavities.

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The first dental visit

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is usually short

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and requires very little treatment.

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This visit is a good chance

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for your child

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to meet the dentist in a friendly,

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non-threatening way.

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Depending on your preferences,

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you may stay in the treatment room

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with your child during the visit,

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or you may be asked to wait

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in the reception area

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so your child in the dentist

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can build a relationship.

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During the first visit,

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the dentist will check your child's

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teeth for decay.

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Examine your child's bite

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and check

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for any other potential problems

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with the jaw, gums, and oral tissues.

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If needed,

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the dentist or a dental hygienist

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will clean

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your child's teeth and may recommend

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fluoride treatment.

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The dentist will also help

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you understand

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how to help your child care

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for his or her teeth,

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and will answer any questions

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you may have about dental development.

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Depending on your child's oral health

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needs, the dentist

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may discuss

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topics with you, such as good

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oral hygiene practices,

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cavity

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prevention, fluoride needs,

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teething and developmental milestones,

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oral habits like thumb sucking and tongue

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thrusting, proper nutrition,

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and ways to prevent accidents

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that could damage the teeth and face.

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The dentist will also discuss

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a schedule with you

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for your child's

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subsequent dental visits.

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Many dentists

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like to see children

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every six months to monitor

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the development of their teeth

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and treat any problems

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before they become more serious.

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These regular visits

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also help

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to build your child's comfort

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and confidence in the dentist.

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The dentist may recommend

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more frequent visits

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based on your child's

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specific dental needs and risks.

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If it's time to schedule your child's

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first dental visit,

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contact your dentist today.