The idea of such early dental visits is still surprising to many new parents. However, national studies have shown that preschool-aged children are getting more cavities. More than 1 in 4 children in the United States has had at least one cavity by the age of 4. Many kids get cavities as early as age 2.
To prevent early childhood cavities, parents first have to find out their child's risk of developing cavities. They also need to learn how to manage diet, hygiene and fluoride to prevent problems.
But cavities aren't all that parents need to learn about their child's dental health. The age 1 dental visit lets parents discuss:
After this first visit, the dentist will suggest a schedule of follow-up visits. In the past, dentists typically called for visits every six months. Now, the schedule may vary according to each child's needs and risks. As your child grows, the dental team can help you learn how to prevent common oral problems.
By bringing your child into our Dubuque dentist office at an early age, we're able to establish a trusting relationship with them. With routine visits, they'll learn that not every trip to the dentist has to be scary or uncomfortable.
In most cases, your child's comfort level will increase with every visit and they'll learn to trust their dentist and the process will become routine and predictable.
A child's fear for the dentist usually arises when their oral hygiene has been neglected and routine visits have not been maintained.
Because of this, things that could have been addressed much earlier have now turned into larger problems that often require lengthy, uncomfortable, and more costly procedures.
"My 3 year old had a very traumatic experience at our former pediatric dentist and I was so relieved when he had a great time getting his teeth cleaned by Misty yesterday. He is actually looking forward to coming back in 6 months, which is about as good of an endorsement as you can get. I can't say enough great things about this practice and I am so happy that we found them."
-Stefanie E
Find Us
Proud Member of the Dubuque Chamber of Commerce
989 Langworthy St. | Dubuque, IA 52001
(across from Mercy Hospital)
Office Hours:
Mon: 7:30am - 5pm | Tues & Wed: 7am - 6pm | Thurs: 7am - 2pm | Fri: 8am - 12pm (Call)
**New Patients Please Provide Your Insurance Carrier (if any) in the 'Notes for Doctor' Section on the Form Below**