Your Child’s First Dental Visit
It’s the BIG DAY! Your child’s first dental visit!
If you’re like most parents, you’re probably wondering how your child will react. Will he or she be scared? Cry? Cooperate because you’re there? Is there anything you can do to prepare your child and yourself?
Your child has nothing to fear at their first visit in our office!
When you schedule your child’s first dental visit, you will be walked through the suggestions offered to parents of “first time” dental patients. It’s really a whole lot easier than you think!
When Should That First Visit Take Place?
You are encouraged to bring your child in between the time he or she gets their first tooth and one year. Dentists like to call this first dental visit a “happy visit.” It is not meant to be long; the dentist simply introduces themselves to your child and initiating contact. The shorter the visit, the better.
What Happens at the First Visit?
Every dentist wants your child’s first experience with to be as pleasant as possible. After all, they want your child to look forward to future visits!
During your child’s first dental visit, we will request information about your child’s complete medical and dental history up to that point. We will examine your child’s teeth, demonstrate proper brushing and oral hygiene, and discuss proper care and routine dental maintenance with you. At this same time, you can feel free to discuss any concerns that you might have.
Your child may also hold a mirror as their teeth are counted. This makes the visit interactive and fun for your child.
How Can I Prepare My Child (and Myself) for this First Visit?
Talk to your child about their first dental visit, in words that he or she can understand. Keep in mind that many of your child’s visits to a “doctor” have involved the administration of shots, so it’s understandable that when you use the term “doctor,” your child may show some apprehension.
Try to find a library book about a child’s first dental visit. The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist and Show Me Your Smile!: A Visit to the Dentist (Dora the Explorer) are two examples that use characters that may be well known to your child.
Please be sure to stay positive with your child when speaking about their first dental visit. Often, it’s best to say very little, so your child has no pre-conceived ideas. Let your child know that the dentist will be very gentle and wants your child to have a good experience here. If you expect your child to enjoy their first dental visit, then most likely they will, Remember the power of positive thinking!
If your child has a favorite stuffed animal, toy or blanket, by all means, feel free to bring it with you if it will provide that added layer of security and comfort for your child.
Let Us Know How We Can Help You
If there is anything that the dentist can do to help prepare you and/or your child for this all important first visit, by all means, please let them know at the time you schedule the appointment.
This is to be a positive and enjoyable experience for you and your child. Make sure you advise the dental office ahead of time if your child has any special needs or behaviors that you think we should know about, so we can address them before your child’s arrival.
