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Does Your Baby Need a Dentist?

TTENTION NEW PARENTS:
Caring for a baby’s dental health may
A start earlier than you think!
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
recommends that babies see the dentist for
the first time, six months after the first tooth
erupts, or no later than their first birthday.
This policy is supported by both the American
by Dental Association and the Academy of
Dr. Marilyn Sandor, General Dentistry, because, more than 21% of
DDS, MS American children between the ages of 2 and
5 have cavities, but children who visit the dentist by their first
birthday may be less likely to have tooth decay than children who
wait until they’re older. In fact, research suggests that, for each year
past a child’s first birthday parents delay booking that first dental
appointment, the child’s chances of getting tooth decay nearly
doubles.
How can an early consultation with a dentist help reduce the risk
of cavities in children?
An early consultation with a pediatric dentist can immediately
239.592.0800
reduce the risk of cavities, because as they say, “knowing is half the
battle.” 239.592.0800
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD)
drmarilynsandor.com
recognizes that perinatal and infant oral health are the foundations
upon which preventive education and dental care must be built to
enhance the opportunity for a child to have a lifetime free from
preventable oral disease.
What is special about this time? MEET DR. SANDOR
For parents, this is the time they really start preparing for the
new baby’s arrival and it is the perfect time to start thinking about ON
dental health.
For oral health providers, it is the period of time where parents
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are receptive to receiving information that can help their children
avoid preventable dental concerns.
Topics such as how parents’ own dental health can affect their
baby’s dental health are discussed at this time. Other topics may
include: Access to Care,
• Baby bottle tooth decay • Infant feeding practices
Anywhere!
• Mouth cleaning • Teething
• Pacifier habits • Finger-sucking habits
• Pregnancy and the prenatal period Fast and Easy access to your
Who should a parent consult for advice? Pediatric Dental Specialist
Parents should research the professionals in their area, who have from your phone!
experience with babies. Pediatric dentists fall into this niche.
Pediatric dentists have an additional two to three years of special
training after dental school and are prepared to treat children of all
shapes and sizes from itty bitty infants to growing teens.
How do you set up a visit?
In person or via a virtual visit, with GoodCheckup, your
pediatric dentist is only a phone call away!

American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Perinatal and infant oral
health care. The Reference Manual of Pediatric Dentistry.
Chicago, Ill.: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry; 2021:262-6.

Life in Naples | April 2022 43 43