Are you preparing for your child’s first dental visit?

As a parent, taking your child to their first dental visit can be just as nerve-racking for you as it is for them. With the right information, you’ll realize that taking your child to the dentist for the first time is nothing to worry about.

Check out this guide to learn about the top things you need to know about your child’s first dental visit.

1. What Happens at the First Visit?

The first visit is really about helping your child feel comfortable with the dentist. Ideally, you should take your child to the dentist for the first time within six months of their first tooth coming in, or, by the time they turn one.

Typically, the first visit will last between 30 and 45 minutes, and it will involve a full examination of your child’s jaw, gum, bite, teeth, and oral tissue. If necessary, the dentist may also give your child’s mouth a gentle cleaning.

But, don’t worry, this isn’t nearly as intense as the cleaning adults receive. The cleaning will usually include polishing as well as the removal of plaque, tartar, and stains.

X-rays typically aren’t done on the first visit, unless your child’s teeth are showing signs of decay. After the first visit, you’ll want to schedule your child’s second visit six months later.

2. Preparing Yourself and Your Child

If possible, we recommend scheduling your child’s dentist visit in the morning so that they’re alert and fresh.

If your child is a bit older (preschool age or above), you should have a conversation with them about what to expect during their first visit. Make sure they know that the dentist’s office is nothing to be afraid of and that going to the dentist will help them grow healthy and strong teeth.

If you personally have anxieties about going to the dentist, be careful to not relate your fears to your child. Your job is to give moral support to your child and help them stay calm in the dentist’s chair.

Also, you should come prepared with a list of questions you might have for the dentist.

3. Prepare the Dentist

You should come to the first visit prepared to give your dentist your child’s full health history. Also, if your child has any behavioral issues, be prepared to alert your dentist about these.

Even if your child doesn’t suffer from behavioral issues, you have to keep in mind that a dentist’s office is a completely new environment for them. This means that you should be prepared for them to become upset and not want to leave your side.

Are You Ready for Your Child’s First Dental Visit?

After reading this article, you should be better prepared for your child’s first dental visit.

Before you know it, visiting the dentist will seem like no big deal to them.

If you’re looking for a dentist who can make your child feel at ease, then contact us today to make an appointment.