Your smile is one of the first things that people will notice about you—and the same goes for your child’s smile! That said, you should do everything you can to ensure that your little one is set up for a lifetime of excellent oral health, and this starts with their very first dental visit! But you might not know how to prepare or what to expect upon arriving for this crucial exam. Here’s everything your child’s dentist wants you to know.
Preparing for the Visit
Your child’s first dental visit should take place after their first tooth appears, but no later than their first birthday. This might seem like an odd window, but there’s a simple reason for this—as soon as your child has teeth, they’re capable of getting cavities! That said, it’s best to be proactive about their oral health from very early on, as it can help to set their smile up for a successful future.
You can begin preparing your child for their checkup by talking to them about what’s going to happen in a positive and encouraging manner. Have your child practice opening their mouth to get them ready for when the dentist has to check their teeth. You might also consider reading books or watching videos with them about first dental visits to help them feel less fearful and more confident.
What to Expect During the Visit
When you show up for your child’s visit, the dentist will examine them to make sure their jaw and teeth are developing without issue. During the visit, you’ll be seated next to your child (or with your child in your lap) and you’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions or voice concerns about your child’s teeth. Your child’s dentist will continue by checking for mouth injuries, cavities, or other issues. Once that part of the exam is over, the dentist will clean your child’s teeth and provide some tips for daily oral care.
It’s also important to note that your child might cry out a little or feel uncomfortable during the exam, but you don’t need to worry. This is normal, and your child’s dentist and their team understand that this is a new experience for your child; on that note, they’ll be quite gentle and friendly!
Helpful Tips for a Great Visit
Here are some tips to help ensure a smooth visit for both you and your child:
- Don’t schedule an appointment during naptime! Instead, pick a time when your child will feel well-rested; they’ll likely be a little more cooperative!
- Make sure your child has had a light meal and brushes their teeth before their visit so that they won’t feel hungry while they’re there.
- Save snacks for after the visit so that they aren’t on your child’s teeth during the exam.
- Think of the appointment as a happy and fun experience and try to instill this in your child. If they become upset during the appointment, work with your dentist to calm them!
About the Author
Dr. Darren Tong received his dental degree from the Columbia University School of Dental & Oral Surgery and has proudly served patients in the Tappan area for several years. Dr. Tong is proud to take care of smiles of all ages, and his practice is pleased to offer many kinds of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic options. If you have any questions about the article or would like to schedule a visit for your child, feel free to contact Dr. Tong online or by phone for assistance: (845) 675-1512.