In celebration of National Children's Dental Health Month, River Valley Health and Dental Center is excited to feature our Infant Program, that was designed to encourage parents to schedule their children's first preventative dental visit by age one, which is the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
This recommendation is made because infant dental visits will reduce the risk of future dental disease, will lead to improved oral health and ultimately reduce oral health costs in a child's formative years. Data exists to indicate that dental programs are on the rise for children ages 2 to 4 years of age.
Previously, parents may have been discouraged from bringing young children in for their first dental visit until around age 3, due to the belief that they would not be able to sit still or understand the provider's instructions. However, the rising rate of dental decay, due to baby bottle syndrome or other dental neglect ocurring before the age of 3, has encouraged the change in practice.
River Valley Health and Dental Center is currently one of the only dental offices in Williamsport who offers appointments to children six months to 3 years.
What can you expect at your young child’s first dental visit in the Infant Program at River Valley Health and Dental Center?
A private exam room free from noise and other distractions.
A child-friendly atmosphere with toys to interest your child.
A review of your child’s health history.
An exam of your child’s teeth by a dentist.
An instruction of proper brushing and flossing techniques for taking care of your child’s teeth.
Education about how to prevent dental problems in your child’s baby teeth.
Following your child’s first visit in the Infant Program, we recommend you continue to bring your child in every 6 months for dental checkups. This routine allows us to keep a close eye on their dental health and identify risk areas to help to eliminate them. As well, the visits develop rapport between your child and our dental providers to create trust at the outset of your child’s dental experience.
To schedule an appointment in our Infant Program, please call 570-567-5400 option #3. We look forward to meeting with you and your child!