Your Child’s First Trip to the Dentist

We know. Here’s something else you have to fork over for. We’ve heard all of the excuses too: “I didn’t go to the dentist till I was in school. I didn’t ever have fillings on my baby teeth.” We understand. Dental knowledge is far more advanced now than it was even 20 years ago. One of the things we definitely know better now is that your child needs to go to the dentist soon after their first tooth. We also know that maintenance of the baby teeth will help the permanent teeth grow in straighter and healthier.

How soon should your child see a dentist? Right now the general wisdom suggests right around their first birthday or at least within six months of the “eruption” of their first tooth. Check with you dentist and see what they recommend.

You should also think about the possibility that your child could benefit from seeing a pediatric dentist. They’ve had additional training that makes them experts in dealing with the oral health issues of young children. Their own professional behavior is geared toward making kids comfortable during treatment and their support staff will be similarly equipped for kids. Their office will likely be decorated to keep children at ease too. Seeing a pediatric dentist can be a great way for your kids to become comfortable with dentistry overall. Your dentist or physician can tell you if this is a path you should take.

What will this first appointment be like? If you’re going in early enough in your child’s life it should be short. You’ll probably be sitting in the chair holding your child while they do a quick examination. They’ll check existing teeth for decay as well as gum health. Jaw function will be examined as well as other oral tissue. They might clean the existing teeth and they may see the need for a fluoride treatment.

The most important part of the appointment will be the education of you the parent. They’ll tell you how to get your child to start brushing and, later, flossing. They’ll discus dietary habits that affect oral health and the importance of regular appointments for exams and cleanings. They’ll tell you how your child’s mouth should look and how their teeth should appear as they come in. You will likely receive more comfort than criticism on the first visits.

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