You know it’s time to bring your little ones in for a dental visit, but you have no idea what to expect. Will they be scared? What will the dentist be like? What will they tell me about their oral health? It’s natural to have many questions, especially if you’re a new parent. In this article, we’ll break down what you can expect during your children’s first dental visit and the importance of these early appointments.
The Importance of Early Dental Visits
It is strongly recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA) that your child’s first dental visit should be either before they reach the age of one or as soon as their first tooth becomes loose. This allows a dental professional to begin not only monitoring the growth and development of your child’s smile but also establishing a relationship with them that will remain until they reach the age of 18.
Young smiles are often the most prone to cavities, so establishing good oral habits at an early age is imperative to ensuring a healthy smile as they enter into each new phase of life.
What to Expect During Your Child’s First Visit
Depending on the dentist, there’s a good chance your child’s first visit will be more about getting to know each other and getting them familiarized with the dentist’s office and its many unique features. By helping them grow accustomed to the sights, sounds, and smells, may help to lower any anxiety they might have.
You can expect much of the appointment will be focused on answering any questions you might have as the parents, especially as it pertains to taking care of your little one’s smile while at home. Based on your child’s demeanor and comfort level, the dentist may try to clean any erupted teeth, giving them a quick polish; however, if your child is completely opposed to the idea, it is possible to bring them in another time to try again.
The pediatric dentist must examine your child’s jaw and other oral structures to ensure no serious problems are occurring. If your child is more comfortable, they can remain in your lap during the checkup, or if they prefer, they can choose to sit in the dentist’s chair.
Once the examination is complete, you will receive helpful tips from dental team members that go over what you’ll need to use and how to brush and care for your child’s teeth in between appointments. This is to ensure cavities do not begin to form. You may also receive recommend preventive treatments if the dentist believes they are necessary, some of which can include fluoride treatments and/or dental sealants (if they are a bit older).
It’s important that you also understand how other factors can influence your child’s oral health development (i.e., daily eating habits, teething, oral hygiene routine, etc.).
There’s no reason for you or your child to be nervous about the first appointment. It is one of the best steps you can take to ensure they maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for life.
About the Practice
At Hamilton Pediatric Dental Care, patients can expect nothing but the very best. Complete with three highly skilled and trained pediatric dentists who enjoy and remain passionate about treatment young smiles, they offer a fun and welcoming environment. This makes it much easier for new individuals who are bringing their children in for the first time. If you are interested in finding a dental office for your little, contact us via the website or (905) 525-8272.