Preparing Your Child For Their First Dental Visit

For many parents, anticipating their child’s first dental visit brings some anxiety. The stress from overthinking how their child will act and react during the dental appointment can become overwhelming. The good news is that parents can take steps to prepare themselves and their children to ease stress and calm nerves in time for their first dental exam.

Go Earlier Rather Than Later

According to the Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a child should visit the dentist when their first tooth appears before their first birthday. While this recommendation may sound early, beginning routine visits to the dentist at this early age will encourage good oral hygiene, ward off any potential dental problems occurring, and aid in the child’s relationship development with the dental team.

Preparing For Success

Choosing a family dentistry that focuses on children is key to your child’s successful first visit. Dental offices inclusive of small children will create the best environment for a calm and enjoyable appointment. When you schedule your child’s first dental exam, you may request to bring your child for a visit before the exam date. Your child will most likely feel calmer if he or she is familiar with their surroundings.

Also, if your child has special needs, it is a good idea to address these at the appointment scheduling so that the dentist can ensure a successful visit.

You can expect that the first visit will include an oral exam of your child and an informative session with you.

Know What To Expect

The dentist will examine your child’s mouth to ensure healthy growth and development. This examination may include looking at the tongue, mouth and cleaning of teeth and gums. Once the physical exam has been completed, the dentist will speak with you about the best oral hygiene practices for your child. Topics may be relieving teething discomfort, which foods and drinks cause cavities.

Preparing Your Child

Children learn through games and fun, practice playing dentist with stuffed animals and dolls. You can even let your child check out your mouth with a mirror and use the time for teaching and reassuring. If your child has an item that is soothing and calming, consider bringing it to the appointment with you. Even playing favorite songs or videos during the visit can ease a child’s nerves.

The best preparation for your child is a calm and confident parent. Encouraging a good relationship with the dentist early will help your child develop lifelong oral health habits and lessen the fear of dental procedures. Ease your anxiety, and your confidence will calm any reservations your child may have.