First Dental Visit

According to The American academy of pediatric dentistry , children should have their 1st dental visit just after their 1st birthday or once their 1st tooth pop in. Although some parents might see this as too early for  a dental visit, there are many important reasons for such an early timing,

The 1st and most important reason is that the pediatric dentist will be able to monitor the health of your child’s new teeth as they pop in, because believe it or not but as soon as the child’s 1st tooth appears  he can develop cavities .

Yes ! this can happen really early and faster that you can imagine.

Aside from teeth decay, the pediatric dentist will also check your child’s gums and bite to ensure the overall  development of your child is on track and give you answers for any questions that you might have on your mind regarding your child’s teeth health and dental hygiene routine.

Another advantage of this early dental visit is giving your child an opportunity to meet his dentist in a friendly , non-threatening  way and familiarizing him with the dental office which helps calming your child before his dental exam.

So , how to prepare your child for his 1st dental visit ?

Here are some tips you might use !

• Embrace positive attitude towards dental hygiene at home and explain to your child how important it is to keep their teeth and mouth clean.
• Some parents are afraid of the dentist  themselves , so please try not to pass that apprehension to your child and make sure to use only positive words and emotions regarding the dentist.
• If your child has an older sibling who is already going to the dentist, then it is a good idea to bring the younger child to watch his older sibling while getting his teeth cleaned.
• Allow your child to watch a favourite show on youtube where the characters go to the dentist.
• Sing songs while brushing his teeth or play a game of counting his teeth.
• You can request a tour at the dental office prior to his visit
• Show him pictures of the dentist he will be seeing on the practice’s website to get him familiar with the dentist’s name and face.
• Let him bring his favourite toy with him to hold during exam for additional comfort.
• Plan something special for him if he did well at his dental visit.

Wishing your child a pleasant experience at his 1st dental visit !