What Happens During an Infant Oral Exam
- A Gentle, Calm Approach: We know that infants are sensitive to new environments and unfamiliar faces. During your baby’s oral exam, we take time to let them get comfortable with our office and team before we begin. We move slowly, use soft voices, and keep the experience as calm and reassuring as possible.
- Visual Inspection: Dr. Matt gently examines your baby’s mouth, teeth (if present), gums, tongue, and jaw development. We look for any signs of early decay, bite issues, tongue-tie, or other concerns that might need attention. This exam takes just a few minutes but provides valuable information about your baby’s oral development.
- Soft Tissue Assessment: We check your baby’s gums, tongue, and the tissues inside the mouth for any signs of infection, irritation, or abnormalities. Healthy soft tissues are essential for eating, speaking, and overall development.
- Bite and Jaw Development: We evaluate how your baby’s jaw is developing and whether teeth are coming in properly. Early detection of any alignment issues allows us to monitor and address them as your child grows.
- Parent Education: We talk with you about caring for your baby’s teeth and gums, feeding practices that support oral health, and what to expect as teeth come in. We answer all your questions and provide practical tips you can use at home.
- No Fluoride Treatment Needed Yet: Infant oral exams typically don’t include fluoride treatments. We focus on assessment, education, and establishing a foundation of trust with your baby.
Why Choose Us for Infant Oral Exams in Arnold, MO
Dr. Matt’s Expertise with Young Children
Dr. Matt graduated from the University of Missouri Kansas City School of Dentistry with comprehensive training in pediatric care. His background includes working with children of all ages, from newborns to teenagers. He understands infant development and knows how to work with babies in a way that keeps them calm and comfortable.
Military Background Brings Precision and Patience
Dr. Matt’s service as an Army dental officer taught him how to work with precision under pressure and how to communicate clearly with patients and families. This translates to thoughtful, careful infant exams where every detail matters.
St. Louis Dentist, South County Roots
As someone born and raised in St. Louis, Dr. Matt understands the values of Arnold and South County families. He’s not just a dentist passing through, he’s a neighbor committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of children in our community. When you bring your baby to Pediatric Dentistry of Arnold, you’re seeing someone who has deep roots here and genuine care for your family.
Specialized in Pediatric Patient Care
Our entire office is designed with children in mind. From our soothing “under the sea” environment to our gentle approach, everything about Pediatric Dentistry of Arnold is tailored to making infants and young children feel safe and comfortable.
Master’s in Public Health
Dr. Matt’s advanced education from Saint Louis University included specialized training in community health and preventive care principles. This knowledge informs how we approach infant oral health, emphasizing prevention and early intervention.
Oral Health Tips for Infants
Before Teeth Erupt
Even before your baby’s first tooth comes in, you can start building good oral habits. Gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeding. This removes bacteria and gets your baby used to oral care.
When First Teeth Appear
Once teeth start coming in (usually around 6 months), you can begin brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste. At your infant oral exam, we’ll show you exactly how much toothpaste to use and the best brushing technique.
Avoid Tooth Decay
Don’t put your baby to sleep with a bottle of milk or juice. Sugary liquids can cause decay, sometimes called “bottle rot.” If your baby needs a bottle at bedtime, use only water.
Teething Comfort
Teething can be uncomfortable for babies. Cold teething rings and gentle gum massage can help. Avoid teething gels with benzocaine, which can be harmful. Ask Dr. Matt for safe teething recommendations.
Establish Positive Habits Early
Starting dental visits early helps your baby get used to the dentist office and builds positive associations with oral care. This sets the stage for a lifetime of good dental habits.
Infant Oral Exams for Arnold, Oakville, Mehlville, and South County Families
Pediatric Dentistry of Arnold is conveniently located for families throughout the region. Whether you’re in Arnold, Oakville, Mehlville, Affton, Festus, Imperial, or other South County neighborhoods, we’re here to provide expert infant oral exams close to home.
- Arnold Families: Our home. We’re just minutes away at 22 Arnold Mall, serving families in this thriving community with convenient access and personalized care.
- Oakville Parents: Part of the excellent Mehlville School District, Oakville families trust Pediatric Dentistry of Arnold for their infant oral exams and early dental care.
- Mehlville Residents: We’re proud to be the local dental home for Mehlville families seeking expert care for their infants and young children.
- Affton and South County Communities: Families from Affton, Festus, Imperial, Herculaneum, and surrounding South County areas choose us for our expertise, convenient location, and genuine commitment to their children’s health.
Frequently Asked Questions About Infant Oral Exams
When should I bring my baby to the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental visit by age one or when the first tooth erupts, whichever comes first. Early visits help establish good oral health habits and allow Dr. Matt to monitor development.
Will my baby be uncomfortable during the exam?
No. Infant oral exams are gentle and non-invasive. We move slowly, use soft voices, and let your baby set the pace. Most babies tolerate the exam very well, especially when a parent is present for comfort and reassurance.
Should I prepare my baby for the visit?
Keep it simple and positive. You might say, “We’re going to visit Dr. Matt to check your teeth and make sure they’re healthy.” Avoid using words like “pain,” “shot,” or “hurt.” Young children pick up on parent anxiety, so staying calm and matter-of-fact helps your baby stay calm too.
Do you take X-rays of infants?
We don’t routinely take X-rays during infant exams unless there’s a specific reason. Dr. Matt will let you know if X-rays are needed for your baby’s individual situation.
What if my baby cries during the exam?
Babies cry sometimes, and that’s okay. We’re experienced with infant behavior and won’t rush. Your presence and calm demeanor help reassure your baby. We’ll work at your baby’s pace to complete the exam comfortably.
How long does an infant oral exam take?
Most infant exams take 20 to 30 minutes. This includes time for your baby to get comfortable, the gentle examination, and our discussion with you about your baby’s oral health and care at home.
What should I do about my baby’s teething?
Teething is normal and usually starts around 6 months. Cold teething rings and gentle gum massage can help soothe discomfort. We recommend avoiding teething gels with benzocaine. During your visit, Dr. Matt can suggest safe options that work well for many babies.
Do you accept insurance for infant exams?
Yes, we accept most major dental insurance plans. Many insurance plans cover preventive visits like infant oral exams. When you schedule, let us know your coverage and we’ll verify benefits and discuss any out-of-pocket costs upfront.
What if my baby already has a cavity?
If we detect early decay, we’ll discuss treatment options with you. We use gentle techniques and focus on your baby’s comfort. Early treatment prevents problems and protects developing teeth.
How often should my infant visit the dentist?
After the first exam, we typically recommend visits every six months for infants and young children. This allows us to monitor oral development, catch any issues early, and support you with guidance on home care.
Schedule Your Baby’s Infant Oral Exam in Arnold, MO
Your baby’s oral health matters. Starting with a gentle, expert infant oral exam gives your child the best possible foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth and positive dental experiences.
Dr. Matt and the team at Pediatric Dentistry of Arnold are ready to welcome your baby and answer all your questions about infant oral care.
Pediatric Dentistry of Arnold
22 Arnold Mall Arnold, MO 63010
(314) 230-8615
Call us or visit our website to schedule your baby’s infant oral exam today. We’re conveniently located to serve families throughout Arnold, Oakville, Mehlville, Affton, Festus, and all of South County.
A Word From Dr. Matt
Infant oral exams are one of the most rewarding parts of my practice. Getting to know babies and their families early on, helping parents understand how to support their child’s oral development, and being part of their dental journey from the very beginning is what drew me back to St. Louis. Every infant I see is someone’s precious child, and I treat them with the care and attention I’d want for my own family.
If you have questions about your baby’s teeth or oral health, I’m here to help. Our goal is to make sure your child grows up with healthy teeth and a positive attitude about dental care.
