Childs First Dental Visit

When & What Is My Childs First Regular Visit

The first "regular" dental visit should be no later than your childs first birthday. We will gently examine your childs teeth and gums. X-rays may be taken to reveal decay and check on the progress of your childs permanent teeth under the gums. We may clean your childs teeth and apply topical fluoride to help protect the teeth against decay. We will make sure your child is receiving adequate fluoride at home. Most important of all, we will review with you how to clean and care for your childs teeth

A childs preparation for a dental visit begins long before a dental office is ever selected. It begins from the time that the child begins learning about oral health from their parents, siblings, and others around them. Because the attitudes of those around them will help form the childs initial perception of their dental experience; parents need to "Keep it positive. " Some parent tips for creating positive preventive dental experiences for their children

• Explain before the visit that the dentist is a friend and will help your child keep his teeth healthy.
• Answer all of your childs questions positively (Keep an ear out for scary stories from peers and siblings).
• Dont let your child know of any anxiety you may have about dental visits. Aside from conversation, your tone of voice and body language can convey your anxiety.
• Be mindful of how you conduct yourself before and during the visit, as this can have an impact as well.
• Be careful about using scary words. Check-ups and 90% of first visits do not have anything to do with "hurt," so do not even use the word. (i.e.; do not make comments like, "Dont worry the doctor wont hurt you.") It is best to rely on the dentist to convey information about upcoming procedures.
• Give center stage to the dentist or assistant working with your child. If the dentist or assistant does most of the talking then your child will build a better relationship with them