Q:
I have tried to make an appointment with several dentists for my son, yet they all refuse to see him until he is 3 because nothing is wrong. However, I've read that children should be taken to the dentist when their first tooth comes through. Are my child's teeth at risk because I can't get an appointment?
A:
Dear Jeremy in New Mexico…
I agree that a child should be seen upon the eruption of the first tooth. And I can appreciate your frustration in not being able to get a dental visit. I have a few suggestions to help you. First, look in your phone book's yellow pages and see if any pediatric dentists are listed; if not, call your local dental society and ask them to help you. You can also call your pediatrician's office and ask them for the name of a dentist who they've worked with that sees young children. You are right in wanting your child to be seen early, since a lot of decay can be prevented through an early visit to the dentist.
Gregory F. George D.D.S.
Our parenting advice is given as suggestions only. We recommend you also consult your healthcare provider, and urge you to contact them immediately if your question is urgent or about a medical condition.
