Taking care of your child’s oral health from a young age can set them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Many parents wonder when they should take their child to see a dentist. Usually, it is recommended that your child have their first dental visit by the age of one. You can always call up your dentist and ask them as well!
By taking your child to the dentist early, you can do more to prevent cavities, as well as catching any potential problems early on. Regular dental visits also help your children learn about good oral hygiene early in life, setting them up with good dental habits that will last a lifetime.
What can you expect at your child’s first dental appointment?
During this visit, the dentist or hygienist will go over your child’s health history and address any specific questions or concerns you have pertaining to your child’s overall oral health. Your dentist can also inform you about your child’s oral development, such as teething and future development. They can give you helpful advice on keeping your child’s teeth and mouth healthy, such as dietary tips to prevent cavities.
At your child’s first dental visit, the dentist will show you how to properly clean your child’s teeth, and give advice about what kind of dental routine to follow. Depending on the age and/or state of your child’s teeth, the dentist may perform some cleaning or administer fluoride.
Overall, the experience should be a positive one for you and your child! A dentist who is experienced working with children usually has lots of tricks for keeping your child entertained and feeling safe. Often dentists reward children with a little toy at the end of the cleaning, which can be a great way to build positive associations with going to the dentist.
At the end of your child’s first appointment, you should have an idea of how to care for your child’s teeth at home, as well as what to expect in the coming months. You can also book follow-up appointments. It’s never too early to start teaching your child good oral hygiene habits!