3 Steps to Help Your Child Enjoy Their First Dental Checkup

The appearance of your baby's first tooth is a significant experience. It marks a new stage in your child’s development. You should begin to consider a first visit to the dental office. It will help you understand what you can do to prevent cavities and get your child started on proper oral care. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that the first visit takes place before your child’s first birthday.

Preparing for your child’s first appointment with the dentist

To help your child enjoy their first dental checkup, it is crucial that you make the experience exciting. Show them pictures of the dental office to spark their enthusiasm. Use encouraging language and offer positive responses to their questions. More importantly, accompany your child to make them feel safe and confident.

Here are three steps to help your child enjoy their first dental visit:

• Choose a dentist with a relaxing dental office: It is important to create a positive association with visiting a dentist, so select a dental clinic that fosters a fun and exciting environment for children. Check out their social media channels to have a look at their setting and read reviews about how they deal with pediatric patients.
• Introduce your child to the dentist: The first dental visit should be short and informal. Make sure that your child feels comfortable before you introduce them to the dentist. Assure them that they can sit on your lap and stop the procedure if they feel nervous. This is also a great time to discuss the dentist’s practice and to gauge the reaction of your child to new surroundings.
• Select a prize: Prizes are a great way to make pediatric patients think that a dental clinic is an engaging place. Let your child choose a prize if they seem nervous during the cleaning. Vary their options with crayons, key chains, stickers, and finger puppets.

Follow these steps to draw a positive outcome out of your child’s first dental checkup. Start now, so you can both look forward to a great experience. If they do get distressed, they may not be ready for their first visit. In this case, stop the procedure and try again after a month.

What to expect during your child’s first dental checkup

On the first visit, the dentist will typically educate you on the proper tooth and gum care for children/babies. You may also discuss the effect of pacifiers on your child’s oral health and how proper nutrition helps maintain healthy teeth. The dentist should also demonstrate brushing techniques so that you can assist your child with oral care.

Eating a balanced diet and practicing good oral hygiene are not the only ways to improve and maintain your child’s oral health. Taking your child to the dentist is also another way to support healthy teeth and gums.

If you are looking for a dental office that provides children with high quality, personalized dental care, contact us today. We have a nurturing office environment and trained pediatric dentists to make your child’s first dental checkup productive and agreeable.

Are you considering a first dental checkup in the Middletown area? Get more first dental checkup information at https://www.hvkidsmiles.com.

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