be HAPPY &
At our Redondo Beach pediatric dental office, Dr. Carroll spends a lot of time talking with new parents about teeth before there is ever a dental problem. A baby’s or young child’s first dental visit is a chance to establish healthy habits, answer questions, and become familiar with the dental office.
Good to know
Tears are completely normal
Infants and toddlers are not expected to behave like older children during an exam. Crying, moving, wanting to stay close to a parent, or simply refusing to open at first can all be completely normal. Dr. Carroll’s goal is to gather the information she needs while keeping the visit developmentally appropriate.
During an early visit
What Dr. Carroll looks at
During an early visit, Dr. Carroll may evaluate tooth eruption, the teeth and gums, oral development, cavity risk, feeding-related concerns, and any issues parents have noticed at home. She also talks with families about brushing, fluoride, diet, teething, bottle or cup habits, and practical ways to prevent early childhood cavities.
Dr. Carroll follows the pediatric-dentistry recommendation that children establish a dental home by about age one. She views that first visit as education and prevention, not simply a search for cavities.
Infant feeding concerns
For infants with breastfeeding or feeding concerns, Dr. Carroll can also evaluate whether a restrictive tongue tie, lip tie, or buccal tie may be contributing to the problem. These evaluations are focused on infant feeding function.
Frequently asked questions
When should my child first see a dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends establishing a dental home by about age one. An early visit allows us to check oral development, discuss brushing, fluoride, diet and teething, and help prevent problems before they start.
What if my baby or toddler cries during the visit?
That can be completely normal. Infants and toddlers are not expected to behave like older children. Dr. Carroll adapts the exam to the child’s developmental level and focuses on obtaining the necessary information without expecting a young child to sit through an adult-style dental visit.
Can Dr. Carroll evaluate feeding or breastfeeding concerns?
Yes. For infants with feeding or breastfeeding concerns, Dr. Carroll can evaluate whether a restrictive tongue tie, lip tie, or buccal tie may be contributing to the problem. These evaluations are focused on infant feeding function.
Reviewed by Shari Carroll, DMD, MPH - Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
Contact
1611 S. Catalina Avenue | Suite 100 Redondo Beach | CA 90277 | Phone: (310) 357-4414
There is FREE parking in our underground parking garage accessible off of Catalina Avenue.
Existing patients: Please use Dr. Carroll’s established after-hours contact instructions for urgent questions outside normal office hours.
