It’s time to prepare for your child’s first dental visit! Grab your favourite book or favourite toy and get ready to take your toddler for their first visit to the dentist. Six months after the first tooth erupts is the perfect time to visit the dentist. Some parents plan their child’s first dental visit at 12 months. It’s up to you, but plan for a positive learning experience.
What You Will Learn
Preparation will set you and your child up for success. Practice and preparation help you and your child feel optimistic about going to the dentist. Below are a few things you will learn as you prepare for your child’s first dental visit.
The potential of baby bottle tooth decay
Insight on infant feeding practices
Helpful mouth cleaning tips
Learn about teething
How to select and use a pacifier
A deep dive into finger-sucking habits
Prepare For Your Child’s First Dental Visit
Many parents begin by reading age-appropriate books about dentists and their vital work to help create more positive attitudes and improve their chances of a positive experience. You can also watch videos about dentists and share your ideas about dental health. It does help to talk frequently about dentists in a positive way. You can also explain in advance what the dentist will do and how long it will take. Many parents find it helpful to show their child photos of our dental clinic. Click here to book a dental appointment.
The Best Time of Day to Schedule an Appointment
It is essential to consider your child’s sleep schedule when considering the best time to book their first dental visit. Most toddlers are most alert and wide awake in the early morning. Avoid bringing them in when they are exhausted or need a nap, leading to an unpleasant experience.
Prepare Yourself
The first visit will last between 35 and 45 minutes. This first visit is the best opportunity to develop a healthy and positive relationship with the dentist. Our team will provide helpful tips on how to take care of your child’s teeth. Be prepared with questions about brushing and flossing, and make sure to ask for demonstrations. Cleaning a baby’s mouth is essential, and we are happy to show you how to clean your baby’s mouth effectively. Click here to book a dental appointment.
If you have dental anxieties, be careful not to relate those fears or dislikes to your child. Parents provide moral support by staying calm while in the dental exam room. Children can pick up their parents’ anxieties and become anxious themselves.
Prepare The Dentist
Let us know if your child tends to be stubborn, defiant, anxious, or fearful in other situations. Sometimes children between 10 to 24 months of age may get upset during their first visit with a stranger. Let us know your best guess at how your child will react. If you are anxious about the dental visit, your child will most likely pick up on your anxiousness.
The Subsequent Visits
Depending on your child’s age, the subsequent visit may involve a complete examination of the teeth, jaws, bite, gums, and oral tissues to monitor growth and development. If required, a gentle cleaning includes polishing teeth and removing any plaque, tartar, and stains. Since baby teeth fall out, there is not much need for X-rays unless needed to diagnose decay.
Book A Dental Appointment
As with adults, your child needs to get their teeth cleaned and a dental checkup every six months. Kids should start going to the dentist soon after their first tooth erupts or around their first birthday, whichever happens first. Click here to book a dental appointment.
