Your child is not the only one experiencing the world for the first time as a new parent. You also learn a lot of new stuff, like going to the dentist regularly. Even if you are comfortable and secure in your oral health, you may begin to have concerns about your child’s dentist checkups. If you’re unsure what to anticipate from your appointment or when to take your child to the dentist for the first time, we’ll provide you with vital information on caring for your infant’s dental hygiene that you and your child will both appreciate.
When to Take Child to Dentist
The child’s first dental appointment should occur after the first tooth’s appearance, but no later than the first birthday. Why so soon? Cavities can happen as soon as your infant gets teeth. Being proactive about your child’s oral health can help keep their smile healthy for the rest of their life.
How to Prepare
Begin early! To prepare your child for the appointment, explain what will happen and be positive. Allow your child to practice opening their mouth to prepare them for when the dentist counts and inspects their teeth. Reading books or movies about first dentist appointments might make your youngster feel less afraid and more confident.
Parents can also prepare. When booking an appointment, it can’t hurt to ask for any relevant patient forms ahead of time. It may be simpler and faster for you to complete these at home rather than at the clinic on the day of your visit.
Make a question list as well. If your kid is teething, sucking their thumb, or using a pacifier excessively, your dentist can help.
What to Expect
The dentist will evaluate your child to ensure that their jaw and teeth are developing typically. If your child is unable or unwilling to sit in the dental chair alone, you will be sitting in the chair with your child on your lap for the session. The dentist will examine your mouth for injuries, cavities, or other problems. After that portion of the checkup, the dentist will clean your child’s teeth and provide you with daily maintenance instructions.
Don’t be concerned if your child screams or wiggles throughout the test. It’s completely normal, and your dental staff knows this is a new experience for your child!
Tips for a Fantastic Visit
Ensure your child has had a meal and brushed their teeth before their appointment so they are not hungry.
Schedule an appointment outside of naptime. Choose a time when your youngster usually is well-rested and agreeable.
Keep snacks till after the visit to avoid getting them on your child’s teeth during the exam.
Consider the appointment to be a festive and enjoyable event. If your child becomes agitated during the visit, cooperate with your dentist to soothe them. You two are on the same team!
Note: Every day, your baby achieves new milestones, and their first dentist appointment is another one to record in the baby’s book!
