When Should Your Child First Visit the Dentist?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your little one should first see a dentist when the first tooth emerges and no later than their first birthday. Establishing a dental home right from the start provides access to personalized care from a trusted provider in a comfortable and familiar environment. It also helps build positive associations with future dental care, setting the stage for healthy smiles that last a lifetime.
Preparing for Your Child's First Dental Visit
To prepare for their first dental visit, talk about what to expect using kid-friendly terms and keep all discussions positive and upbeat. Read books about dental visits to familiarize your child with what to expect. If your child needs any specific accommodations, please let us know ahead of time so we can best prepare for a stellar first dental visit.
What Can You Expect During Your Child's First Dental Visit?
At TIME Pediatric Dentists, we go to great lengths to ensure your child's first visit and every following one are positive and happy. Your child's exam will start by gathering their health history, followed by checking teeth for signs of tooth decay or any other problems and discussing any of your concerns. If your child can hold still, we may gently clean their teeth with a manual toothbrush.
After your child's exam, we will create a custom treatment plan to address any oral health concerns and discuss follow-up visits and maintenance. We are also happy to offer oral hygiene tips, provide guidance on oral habits, such as thumb sucking and pacifier use, and discuss smile-healthy nutrition. Remember - never put your baby or toddler in bed with a bottle or a sippy cup with anything other than water to avoid developing bottle baby tooth decay, a condition known as early childhood caries (ECC).