When Should My Child First See a Dentist
The first year of a child’s life is busy. So many milestones, including the eruption of their first baby teeth. By the time your child is one, they could have as many as eight powerful teeth in their mouth. Once that first birthday is under wraps, it’s time to think about scheduling your first pediatric dental visit. Dr. Mitchell Loeb and his dental team at Kid Grins in Edina, MN, explain what to expect.
It’s Never Too Early to Visit the Pediatric Dentist
When should your child first see a dentist? Here is what you need to know:
- Early is best. You don’t have to wait until all your child’s primary teeth have erupted to visit the dentist for the first time.
- Set the stage. Seeing the dentist at a very young age minimizes the chances of early childhood tooth decay and establishes good oral health habits.
- Avoid emergencies. Do not wait until your child is in pain or you notice a problem with their teeth.
- Keep it simple. Avoid talking to your child about the dental visit too much. Explain happily that they have an appointment and leave the rest of the details to us.
Set the Tone for a Lifetime of Good Oral Health
It is crucial for every child to have a good first visit to the dentist. This initial interaction with the dental team, from receptionist to assistants, hygienists to pediatric dentist, sets the tone for a positive relationship with dental care and the dental environment that will hopefully last a lifetime.
It is our duty to inform, educate, and tend to your child’s teeth, but we are also serious about the responsibility of making oral health care a fun priority. We introduce children to dental care in stages, getting them used to the entire process until they’re ready to sit alone in that chair and open wide. At the first dental visit:
- The pediatric dentist looks in the child’s mouth to perform an oral examination.
- The child’s age determines whether they need a cleaning, x-rays, and fluoride treatment.
- No invasive procedures are carried out unless there is a dental emergency and then only after discussion with the guardians.
You Can Help Make Your Child Comfortable at the Dentist
At Kid Grins, we do everything possible to make your child feel comfortable during their entire dental visit. We understand that a new experience can be stressful for kids, especially when accompanied by people your child doesn’t know and strange-looking tools.
Typically, the younger a child is for that first dental visit the better they do as they age, even during times of discomfort, more advanced dental care, or dental emergencies. We encourage the following:
- Comfort measures. Bring along a favorite stuffy or toy for your child to hold. Our office is a wonderland of fun for kids to discover too which helps calm them as they wait.
- Gestures. Hold your child on your lap during the exam or hold their hand if they’re independent and just need a little reassurance.
- Honesty. If you have dental anxiety, your child will take cues from your energy. Consider asking another trusted adult to accompany your child to their appointment if you’re afraid your fears will pass on to them.
Visit Kid Grins in Edina for Your Child’s First Dental Visit
First dental visits are a joyous time! Opportunities for photos or videos, a new place for your child to see and explore, and a compassionate, energetic dental team at your service. Contact pediatric dentist Dr. Loeb just after your child’s first birthday to discuss their oral health and plan for them to be seen for the first visit. We look forward to meeting your child and welcoming all of you to our dental family.
