Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is taking advantage of Oral Health Month to promote its friendly dental visits program.
It's a free service offered by the health unit, allowing community members to get their children three and under ready for the dentist.
"This is actually a very important part of a young child's journey because having a positive experience as a child will reduce the fear that many of us adults have going to the dentist," said Anna Read, public health dental hygienist. "My conversations with parents continually reinforces that their fears are usually passed along to the child. So we're just trying to break that cycle."
The difference between a regular dentist's office and HPPH is it's a quieter environment without all the sounds and smells that come along with a dental appointment.
"I see way too many children that have early signs of tooth decay during our school screening program," said Read. "I see them at about age four and I do see a lot of decay present. Children can develop cavities as soon as their tooth errupts."
If appropriate, fluoride will also be applied to the teeth to help protect them after a visit with HPPH.
Read said the Canadian Dental Association recommends the assessment of infants within six months of their first tooth surfacing, or by one year old.
In addition to assessing teeth, tips can also be provided for brushing your baby's teeth. Read encourages parents to come with their questions ready.
"We have a lot of time with that child," she said. "We encourage parents to bring them back as many times as it takes for the child to become comfortable in the chair. It's free and once they're three years old, they'll be ready to graduate to their permanent dental home."
Visits can be made at HPPH dental clinics in Clinton, Listowel, Stratford, and Wingham. Appointments can be booked by calling 1-888-221-2133 ext. 3561.
For more information, visit HPPH's website.