The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. This initial visit is essential for establishing a dental home and ensuring your child starts their oral health journey with a positive experience. Early visits allow our dentist to monitor development, prevent potential issues and provide parents with valuable guidance on oral care.
What Happens During the First Visit?
Your child’s first dental visit is designed to be a gentle introduction to oral healthcare. Our team will take the time to make both you and your child feel comfortable here at Paseo Family Dental and Dentures. A typical first visit includes:
- A warm welcome from our friendly dental team to help your child feel at ease.
- A review of your child’s medical and dental history, including any habits such as thumb-sucking or pacifier use.
- A gentle examination of your child’s teeth, gums and jaw to check for proper development.
- Discussion about teething, proper nutrition and fluoride intake to help support healthy teeth.
- Guidance on effective brushing and flossing techniques tailored to your child’s needs.
- An opportunity for you to ask any questions or address concerns regarding your child’s oral health.
- A personalized schedule for future visits based on your child’s dental needs.
Making the First Visit a Positive Experience
Your attitude and approach can help shape how your child perceives dental care. To ensure a smooth and stress-free visit, consider the following:
- Stay calm and positive — your child will pick up on your emotions.
- Use positive language when discussing the dentist and avoid words that may cause fear, such as “pain” or “drill.”
- Read books or watch videos about dental visits to help your child become familiar with what to expect.
- Schedule the appointment at a time when your child is well-rested and not hungry to minimize potential fussiness.
Building a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles
Early dental visits lay the foundation for lifelong oral health. By bringing your child in at an early age, you help them develop good dental habits and reduce the risk of future dental issues. If you have any questions about your child’s first dental visit in Glendale, Arizona, or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Darren Chugg, we encourage you to contact our office at 623-487-1122.