Pediatric Dentistry

Your Child’s First Visit

The first “regular” dental visit should be just after your child’s third birthday. The first dental visit is usually short and involves very little treatment as your child begins their journey as a dental patient. We may ask the parent to sit in the dental chair and hold their child during the examination. The parent may also be asked to wait in the reception area during part of the visit so that a relationship can be built between your child and your dentist.

We will gently examine your child’s teeth and gums. X-rays may be taken in order to reveal decay and check on the progress of your child’s permanent teeth under their gums. We may clean your child’s teeth and apply topical fluoride to help protect the teeth against decay. Most important of all, we will review with you how to clean and care for your child’s teeth at home.

What Should I Tell My Child About Their First Dental Visit?

We are asked this question many times. We suggest you prepare your child the same way that you would before their first haircut or trip to the shoe store. Your child’s reaction to his first visit to the dentist may surprise you.

Some First Visit Tips

  • Read books with them about going to the dentist.

  • Review with them what the dentist will be doing at the time of their first visit.

  • Speak positively about your own dental experiences.

What Will Happen During The First Visit With Your Dentist?

Examination of your child’s mouth, teeth, and gums.

Evaluate adverse habits like thumb sucking.

Check to see if your child needs fluoride.

Teach you about cleaning your child’s teeth and gums.

Suggest a schedule for regular dental visits.