Your baby’s first year is full of milestones. First smiles, first steps, and first … dental visit? While it may feel early, Dr. Lauren Capozza of Loveland Pediatric Dentistry reminds us that the first dental visit (recommended around age one) is less about counting teeth and more about giving parents the confidence and knowledge to care for their child’s smile.
That starts with the everyday habits that shape oral health.
“There’s so much information out there … and that can feel overwhelming,” says Dr. Lauren.
Her team starts with the basics: brushing. When the first tooth appears, parents should begin brushing twice a day with a drop of fluoride toothpaste no bigger than a grain of rice. The size surprises many parents, which is exactly why early education matters.
“Our goal is to help loving, great parents change habits that could lead to cavities,” Dr. Lauren offers.
Two notable habits? Bedtime and snacking. Dr. Lauren encourages parents to avoid routines that allow for bacteria and plaque to fester, like going to bed with milk or grazing on snacks all day. Instead, she recommends only water at bedtime after teeth have been brushed and dedicated time for snacks.
Parents might be surprised to find out that Dr. Lauren is far less concerned with pacifiers and thumb sucking.
“We don’t judge,” says Dr. Lauren. “It’s not a primary focus, so don’t let that be a cause of stress.”
Early visits also help establish a relationship with a pediatric dentist, which can make a big difference when something unexpected, like a chipped tooth or mouth injury, happens.
At Loveland Pediatric Dentistry, first visits are designed to be simple and supportive for both babies and parents. Taking place in a private room without the big chair or harsh lighting, first visits include a warm welcome, gentle cleaning, and plenty of time for questions.
When parents have the education and confidence to get everyday moments right, they’re building a lifelong foundation for strong oral care. As Dr. Lauren reminds families, “it’s always better to prevent than deal with later on.”
PediatricDentistLoveland.com | 10570 Loveland Madeira Rd, Loveland | 513.806.2060