Although the first visit is mainly for the dentist to examine your child’s mouth and to check growth and development, it’s also about reviewing oral hygiene and nutritional dietary habits with the child’s parent or guardian.
It is important that your child is comfortable for their first visit. To make the visit positive:
- Consider making an appointment when children are rested and cooperative
- Keep any anxiety or concerns you have to yourself. Children can pick up on your emotions, so emphasize the positive
- Never use a dental visit as a punishment or threat
- Never bribe your child
- Talk with your child about visiting the dentist
During this visit, you can expect the dentist to:
- Inspect for oral injuries, cavities or other problems
- Let you know if your child is at risk of developing tooth decay
- Clean your child’s teeth and provide tips for daily care
- Discuss teething, pacifier use, or finger/thumb sucking habits
- Discuss treatment, if needed, and schedule the next check-up