Many people ask about when to see a dentist. You’ve done the NAM (or haven’t), and the baby doesn’t have any teeth yet. And when he or she does start having teeth come in, they are just baby teeth and eventually fall out. So a dentist appointment really isn’t necessary yet, right?
I think you know where I’m going with this. 
OK, so when should we do the first dental visit?
All children should have their first dental visit as soon as the first tooth appears in the mouth OR before 1 year of age…whichever comes first.
And where?
Hopefully, your local Craniofacial Team can help direct you to a pediatric dentist who works with cleft children. The pediatric dentist is usually on the Craniofacial Team. However, the child’s doctor or nurse can give a recommendation as well.
What to prepare when you call: 
It is good to have something rehearsed when you call so the pediatric dentist can be prepared for the visit. Choose a time for the appointment that works best for your child during the day. Have these things prepared to say:
- Calling to schedule your son’s/daughter’s first dental visit
- Mention:
- The child has a cleft and what type
- Any fears the child may have
- What the dentist/assistant can do to make the child more comfortable
- It may take longer to treat your child
- Can you bring a stuffed animal or favorite toy to the appointment?
- Is there a private area you can wait until you are seen by the dentist?
Now that the appointment is scheduled, you can prepare your child (and yourself).
Prior to the visit:
The best thing you can do is talk to your baby about the dentist in a positive way. Touch the baby’s mouth, playfully. Put your finger in the baby’s mouth and move it around while using an upbeat tone of voice.
- Prepare a list of medications the child takes.
- Have the child’s primary doctor’s name and address ready to give to the office.
- Bring a folder of the child’s records of surgeries and medical visits.
- Prepare a list of any questions you have about the baby’s mouth and teeth.
The day is here! 
First Dental Visit:
This is an exciting time. You are creating a dental home for your child, which is so important because now you will have someone to call if a dental emergency occurs.
Bring your paperwork you prepared! Arrive at least 15 minutes early. 
Make sure you reiterate what will make the child comfortable when you check-in at the front desk.
Most importantly, ASK QUESTIONS to the dentist like:
- Who to call if there is a dental emergency
- What you should be doing now to help care for the teeth
- How to clean the cleft area if debris gets stuck
- Is there an orthodontist you recommend who specializes in craniofacial patients?
- What kind of toothbrush should be used
- What toothpaste should be used
- Best snacks for healthy teeth
- General medications without added sugar
- What is normal and not normal in a cleft patient’s mouth
YOU DID GREAT!! And I’m sure your cleft baby did too. 
Now, here is how you can care for the baby at home:
General Dental Care
Stick to these guidelines, and your baby will have healthy teeth and gums for life:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Drink water with fluoride in it
- Avoid sugary snacks and foods (anything with ingredients ending in -ose)
- Try different toothpastes until your child likes one
- DO NOT chew on food and offer to baby, or share utensils, cups, or toothbrushes
- This passes your oral bacteria to your baby, which can cause tooth decay
- Clean the pacifier with only water
- If the baby knocks a tooth out, put tooth in milk to bring to the dentist
- Take precautionary measures to avoid injury to face
- Be sure to have sealants done on permanent teeth to avoid dental decay
The dentist is so important! 🦷
You can be a huge advocate for your child by bringing him or her to the dentist regularly and by following the guidelines above.
AND your child will be more comfortable with oral healthcare as he or she gets older. Remember, oral health affects the body’s health. Caring for your child’s teeth contributes to a healthy body.
Keep up the great work! You are an awesome parent!!