Infant Exams | Welcome to Westerville Pediatric Dental

Westerville Pediatric Dental enjoys partnering with pediatricians to encourage the establishment of a medical and dental home early. The earlier you establish a dental home the better. We believe a dental home can be started at any age, but recommend you set a visit by their first birthday. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a dental home allows us to share an ongoing relationship with your family that provides dental care in a comprehensive, continuously accessible, coordinated, friendly and family-centered way.

What happens at an Infant Exam?

Dr. Joel and staff meet your family.
We happily answer any questions you may have.
An exam is performed in the “knee-to- knee” position.
Age-appropriate tears are expected just like at a physician’s visit, and your child bounces back quickly.
A gentle polishing cup or toothbrush is used to educate and remove plaque/stain.
We may blow bubbles in the air to distract and soothe your child.
X-rays are only taken if needed.
Prevention-oriented education and anticipatory guidance for the future is discussed.
Finally, a recall schedule is determined.

Some important educational topics include:

Parental oral hygiene education, including during pregnancy.
Methods to decrease your bacterial transfer to your child that can cause cavities.
Growth and development.
Teething and its stresses.
Infant oral hygiene techniques.
Diet and proper use of the baby bottle, and how to balance them for your family.
Proper Fluoride use.
Injury prevention, and what to expect.
Future and current dental habits.

What can you do?

Begin tooth brushing with a tiny smear of toothpaste as soon as teeth erupt. A wet cloth can help.
Avoid giving your child a bottle or sippy cup filled with anything besides water.
Every night, lift the upper lip to search for signs of white or brown spots on the front teeth.
Avoid sharing utensils and saliva, which transfers cavity bugs.
Practice “lap-to- lap” or “knee-to- knee” tooth brushing with another adult.
Practice reading fun dental books one week before their visit.