How To Prepare For Your Child’s First Visit
When bringing your child to the dentist for the first time, you can take several steps to make their appointment smoother. These steps will help prepare them and reduce anxiety about their visit. First, help your child learn about dental care and its importance. Additionally, check out children’s books about dentistry from the library or watch YouTube videos on dental care.
Understanding the process and its significance will help ease their nerves about the appointment. Furthermore, watch your language and stay positive about the dentist. Avoid words like “shot” or “hurt” that may make your child nervous. Your excitement and positivity about the dental visit will likely influence your child’s feelings. However, if you show anxiety, your child may pick up on it and feel the same way.
We recommend scheduling your child’s first visit at Dentistry for Children in the morning. Morning appointments ensure your child is well-rested and energetic. Consequently, this timing reduces the likelihood of crankiness, making it easier for them to receive care from our team.
What To Expect From Your Child’s First Visit
Your child’s first visit will be quick and easy. The pediatric dentist will introduce themselves to you and your little one. Then, they will discuss your child’s oral health briefly. Depending on your child’s age, you may hold them in your lap, or they may sit in the dentist’s chair independently.
A hygienist will gently clean your child’s teeth. They will scale the teeth to remove plaque and tartar. Next, they will polish them with a special toothbrush and floss to remove any remaining debris. Afterward, your pediatric dentist will examine their mouth closely for any signs of oral health issues.
Your child may need x-rays at their first oral exam. However, we only take x-rays if necessary and with your approval. We use digital x-rays that are comfortable and convenient. As a result, these x-rays make it easy to capture images of your child’s teeth and jaws.