Question: Why do babies need a dentist? Most of our parents think, “They’re only baby teeth and will just fall out anyway.” What can I tell them?
According to Dr. Frank Courts, DDS, PhD, a pediatric dentist in private practice in Rocky Mount, NC, a dental visit by age 1 is vital not only for a child’s healthy smile but also for hitting important developmental and growth milestones.
“Healthy baby teeth are the first and most important step to a healthy adult mouth! Dental cavities that start before age 2 have the potential to cause:
- Acute pain,
- Chronic discomfort,
- Poor nutrition
- Reduced learning and school performance, and
- Life-threatening infections.
“Early access to oral health care has been shown to dramatically increase oral health in 4- to 5-year-olds as well as reduce the need for extractions and fillings. Finding oral health services for your child by age 1 will go a long way toward having a healthy and happy child with a beautiful smile!”
For a helpful fact sheet to share with parents about dental visits for babies, click here.
See the helpful video below entitled, “Why Babies Need a Dental Home”, or visit the Videos tab at the top of the page.
