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The aao recommends that children have their first orthodontic visit by age 7

Pediatric Dentists Recommend Two Cleanings/Exams A Year

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Questions & Answers

How To Prepare

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When should my child visit the dentist for the first time?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children visit the dentist for the first time when they are about 6 months old or when their first tooth erupts. This initial appointment helps your child become comfortable in the dental office and ensures that they are growing and developing correctly.

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Why should I bring my child to the dentist so young?

These early visit to the dentist help your child establish a “dental home.” This allows them to feel comfortable in the dental office and prevents feelings of anxiety, discomfort and fear in the future, as well as allowing our pediatric dentist and team to develop a positive and trusting relationship with your child. We are also here to be a resource for you and work with you to monitor your child’s oral growth and development to ensure they receive all the care they need to keep their mouth and smile healthy.

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How often should my child visit the dentist?

Your child should visit the dentist at least once every six months, or twice a year. These routine visits allow your child to receive preventive care, such as cleanings and exams, to help keep their mouth and smile healthy. Depending on your child’s individual needs, our pediatric dentist may recommend a more frequent schedule of visits.

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How To Prepare

 

Your child’s first dental visit is an important milestone in their growth and development and may seem a little intimidating when the time comes. Our caring pediatric dentist and team are here to help you prepare for your child’s first visit and be a resource for you in caring for their smile. We encourage you to call Pediatric Dentistry and Braces any time you have questions, as well as to make your child’s appointment. We are happy to help!

A child’s first dental visit is typically more focused on educating parents and caregivers than it is on providing treatment. The goal of a first visit is to establish a comfortable “dental home” and lay the groundwork for continuing preventive care in the future.

Studies have shown that children who visit the dentist at a younger age are less likely to come to the dentist in the future with cavities or other dental problems. Keeping this in mind, we recommend that you do not make your child’s first dental visit into a large or intimidating event. Avoid using words that could cause unnecessary fear, such as “hurt,” “drill,” “shot,” “pain” or “X-rays,” as well as phrases and comments that may appear to be reassuring, such as, “Don’t worry, the doctor won’t hurt you.” These types of phrases often cause greater anxiety rather than helping children calm down.

We also recommend that you try not to give your child more information than what they can understand. Our pediatric dentist and team are very experienced in helping children overcome anxiety and can explain treatment procedures in positive and pleasant ways that will help them avoid negative or anxious feelings when they are visiting us.

It is also normal for children to be uncooperative at their first visit, as children often feel anxious about the unknown and may exhibit avoidance behavior such as squirming or crying. Do not be surprised or embarrassed if your child does not cooperate initially. Our team is here to help, and we find that children take great pride in overcoming their fears. Most of our patients who cry at the beginning of their visit leave with a smile on their face.

Please feel free to call and speak with a member of our team if you have any questions or concerns. We will be happy to review what will happen at your child’s first visit and offer recommendations on ways you can prepare to bring them to meet with us.

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