Parents often wonder when they should first take their child to see the dentist. It’s a common question and one that holds significant importance for your child’s long-term oral health. This blog post will provide clarity on the subject, ensuring that your little one’s smile remains bright and healthy from the very start.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends scheduling your child’s first dental visit by the time their first tooth appears, or no later than their first birthday. This might seem early, but cavities can start to form as soon as teeth emerge, and early dental visits can prevent minor issues from turning into major ones.
Why so early?
The primary goal of this initial visit is prevention. The dentist can provide guidance on baby tooth care, teething, appropriate use of fluoride, and correct feeding practices. Early visits also help your child get used to the dental office environment, helping to reduce anxiety and establish dentistry as a regular part of their health care.
What happens during the first visit?
The first dental visit is usually short and informal. The dentist might ask you to sit in the dental chair with your child during the examination for comfort. They’ll check all of your child’s existing teeth for decay, examine the child’s bite, and look for potential issues with the gums, jaw, and oral tissues. They’ll also guide you on proper oral hygiene habits at home.
How to prepare for the first visit?
- Stay Positive: Talk about the visit in a positive way. Kids pick up on their parent’s emotions, so if you seem anxious, they will be too.
- Play Pretend: Role-play can make the real visit seem less scary. Pretend to be the dentist and count your child’s teeth, or read books about going to the dentist.
- Schedule Wisely: Try to schedule the appointment for a time when your child is usually relaxed and alert, not when they’re tired or hungry.
Remember, the goal of the first dental visit is to establish a Dental Home – an ongoing relationship between the dentist and the patient, which is inclusive of all aspects of oral health delivered in a comprehensive, continuously accessible, coordinated, and family-centered way.
By taking your child to the dentist at an early age, you’re helping them pave the way for a lifetime of good oral health.
