photo courtesy of Dr. Andrew Richardson, Cahaba Heights Pediatric Dentistry
Preparing Your Child for Dental Visits By Denise Morrison Yearian
Jane and Drew Tamassia love going to the dentist. Perhaps words like “tickle toothbrush” and “sugar bug remover” make these preschoolers giggle. Maybe it’s the Disney decorations that draw them in. “I think they like going because I started them early and chose someone who knows how to work with children,” says Suzanne Tamassia, whose own childhood dental fears drove her to find a dentist who works with specifically with children. Getting children in at an early age to see the dentist is key. “Our recommendation falls in line with the national recommendation made by the American Dental Association,” says Dr. Angelica Rohner of Angelica Rohner Pediatric Dentistry. “We recommend that children have their first visit by at least the age of 1, a visit that is as much for the parent as the child. We discuss everything from good brushing routines to daily diet and how to handle tooth trauma.”
Dr. Michael Anglin, a pediatric dentist, agrees. “There are so many things that can affect speech and chewing that we look for as well,” he adds. “Plus, starting the routine early always helps.” Dr. Sory “Chuck” Shannon, D.M.D., says that age one is best for that first visit, as well. “We see a large number of children with bottle decay. We stress the cleaning of mouth with the parents.” Dentists recommend parents ask close friends and family members for recommendations on the best dentist for their child, and they welcome parents to make an appointment before treatment to meet the dentist and staff. Children should see the dentist at least every six months, so being comfortable with the choice is important. Pediatric dentists often offer a more “fun” environment than a general or family dentist’s office, even though many general dentists are great with children. That’s why
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both photos above courtesy of Dr. Angelica Rohner Pediatric Dentistry