We, along with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), recommend that children visit the dentist for the first time within six months of their first tooth erupting, or around their first birthday. These initial dental visits almost never include treatment but are designed to help your child become comfortable in the dental office and develop positive associations with visiting the dentist.

Your child’s first dental visit will include:

• Our pediatric dentists and team greeting you and your child.
• A review of your child’s and family’s health history.
• A discussion of your child’s oral habits, pacifier use, diet and general development.
• A gentle examination of your child’s teeth and gums.
• A review of any teeth that may erupt in the coming months.
• Advice on how to keep your child’s mouth healthy, including brushing and flossing, fluoride intake, and how to prevent oral injuries.
• Addressing any questions or concerns that you may have.

Our pediatric dentists and team will provide you with a description of your child’s current oral health and make recommendations about oral habits after the exam is completed. We will also set up a regular schedule of visits every six months so that your child can receive ongoing preventive care.

Remember, your child’s first dental visit is a key part of establishing their “dental home” and helping them feel at ease in the dental office. You can encourage your child to develop positive associations with visiting the dentist by being positive and calm yourself, and by using positive explanations about what will happen. Please feel free to contact our team for tips on helping your child stay calm in our office.

Give us a call today if you have any questions or would like to schedule your child’s first dental appointment!