BABY'S FIRST VISIT Generally speaking, a baby should see her dentist by age one, or within six months of the eruption of her first tooth. And remember: baby teeth are important. Some parents put little effort into the care of so-called baby teeth because they are going to fall out anyway. But baby teeth deserve care. Among other functions, they are place holders for the permanent teeth. On your daughter's first visit, the dentist will examine her mouth and explain to parents how to keep the area clean. The dentist will also be able to detect whether any habits the baby may have developed, like thumb sucking, are having any impact on the development of the mouth. He may also have some nutrition tips. Baby teeth are not immune to decay. Tooth decay can develop any time after your baby's teeth first erupt. By her first birthday, your baby could have eight or more baby teeth. And if one of them is causing any pain, she won't be able to articulate that. Another consideration weighing in favor of an early exposure to the dentist is the opportunity to establish a good relationship between the doctor and the patient. So talk with your dentist about your baby's care. Your dentist may recommend a dentist who specializes in pediatric care. Presented as a service to the community by Presented as a service to the community by Dr. Barbara Webster 1121 Warren Ave., Suite 130, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-663-0554 SM-CL1911326 BABY'S FIRST VISIT Generally speaking, a baby should see her dentist by age one, or within six months of the eruption of her first tooth. And remember: baby teeth are important. Some parents put little effort into the care of so-called baby teeth because they are going to fall out anyway. But baby teeth deserve care. Among other functions, they are place holders for the permanent teeth. On your daughter's first visit, the dentist will examine her mouth and explain to parents how to keep the area clean. The dentist will also be able to detect whether any habits the baby may have developed, like thumb sucking, are having any impact on the development of the mouth. He may also have some nutrition tips. Baby teeth are not immune to decay. Tooth decay can develop any time after your baby's teeth first erupt. By her first birthday, your baby could have eight or more baby teeth. And if one of them is causing any pain, she won't be able to articulate that. Another consideration weighing in favor of an early exposure to the dentist is the opportunity to establish a good relationship between the doctor and the patient. So talk with your dentist about your baby's care. Your dentist may recommend a dentist who specializes in pediatric care. Presented as a service to the community by Presented as a service to the community by Dr. Barbara Webster 1121 Warren Ave., Suite 130, Downers Grove, IL 60515 630-663-0554 SM-CL1911326