When to Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Visit
When healthy dental habits are instilled early on, your child carries that knowledge into adulthood. At Dowell Dental, we believe in making your child’s first dental visit fun and informational. We offer several treatments in pediatric dentistry, including cleanings, sealants, and fluoride. But when should you schedule your child’s first dental visit? Our Minerva, OH, dental team – also serving Carrollton and Dover – answers this question and offers up some helpful tips and tricks for making that first dental visit a huge success.
What is the Right Age for Bringing My Child to the Dentist?
According to the American Dental Association, parents should schedule their child’s first dental visit by age one, or whenever the first tooth erupts. Bringing your child in while they are young will help them become accustomed to the dental office. It will also give your dentist a chance to assess your child’s oral health and determine if there are any obvious concerns or issues.
What Should I Expect during My Child’s First Visit to the Dentist?
Typically, the first dental visit is brief and informational, and involves very little treatment. This allows your child to experience the dental office in a non-threatening way. If your child is still fairly young, the dentist may ask you to sit in the treatment chair and hold them on your lap while the exam is performed. Sometimes they may ask you to remain in the waiting room.
During the initial examination, our dentist will check the teeth and gums, and look for any signs of decay. We will also assess the oral soft tissues and the bite to ensure there are no potential issues developing.
If necessary, the dentist or hygienist may clean your child’s teeth. We may also recommend fluoride treatment or sealants, depending on your child’s specific needs. During the consultation, our team is available to answer any questions you may have about your child’s oral health.
Preparing Your Child for Their First Dental Visit
It is helpful to start talking with your child a few days before the dental appointment. Reading books and watching videos about visiting the dentist are especially helpful for young children. You can even have them practice holding their mouth open for when the dentist performs his examination.
Brushing your teeth with your child can be helpful, as well. When you child sees mom or dad taking care of their teeth, they will often want to do the same.
How Parents Can Prepare for Their Child’s First Dental Visit
When scheduling your child’s first dental visit, ask about any new patient paperwork. Filling this out ahead of time can make the day of the appointment less stressful for you and your child. You may also want to make a list of questions to ask the dental team.
Schedule Your Child’s Dental Visit Today
Bringing your child to the dentist regularly can set them up for a lifetime of oral health benefits. To learn more about the pediatric services we offer contact us online anytime or give us a call at (330) 627-5005.