Your child’s first dental visit is a significant milestone in their life. This marks the beginning of their dental journey and will be the foundation for superb oral hygiene habits in the years to come. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends the visit be before or very close to his or her first birthday. The general rule is six months after the eruption of the first tooth. Starting routine dental checkups early will help your child acclimate to the dental environment as well as teach them the importance of oral health. As the parent, our pediatric dental specialists will teach you the proper brushing techniques to use, monitor any oral habits and identify their fluoride needs.
What Will the Dentist Do At A First Dental Visit?
Our skilled dentists at Valencia Smiles will review your child’s health records and get acquainted with your child as well as answer any questions you have regarding their oral health. The examination at your children’s first dental visit will include:
- A gentle but comprehensive examination of the teeth, jaw, bite, gums and oral tissues to establish a baseline from which we can monitor growth and development and observe any problem areas.
- If indicated, a gentle cleaning (polishing teeth and removing any plaque, tartar buildup or stains).
- A demonstration on proper home cleaning techniques.
- An age appropriate toothbrush and toothpaste.
- An assessment of the need for fluoride.
Ways to Prepare Your Child For Their First Dental Visit
There are many ways to prepare your child for their first dental visit. Some ways include:
- Read a story about going.
- Show your child pictures of what a office and dental chair look like.
Show your child a picture of the dentist he will see so he will be familiar with his face. - Take your child with you for your 6 month dental visit.
- Explain what he will do.
- Arrange a meet and greet with the dentist and take them to see the dentist’s office.
- Arrive early so your child can acclimate to the office and new environment.
Establishing Regular Dental Visits
Your child should visit every six months for regular dental cleanings and checkups. We recommend fluoride treatments twice a year along with cleanings to keep teeth their strongest. Tooth decay is most treatable when caught early. Visiting the pediatric dentist on a regular basis is a proactive way to catch problems early.
Visit Valencia Smiles For Your First Dental Visit
Valencia Smiles is dedicated to the treatment of children of all ages. Our job is to promote the best oral health with a strong emphasis on prevention. We look forward to giving your child a healthy, beautiful little smile, as well as a fun and positive first dental visit. Request an appointment with our pediatric dentist today!
