At Hero Pediatric Dentistry, we recommend bringing your child in for their first dental evaluation by age one or within six months of their first tooth appearing (whichever comes first).
This is an exciting milestone! However, as you or your child may have some concerns about the visit, we want you to know that our primary goal is to make your child’s appointment a positive and enjoyable experience. Our team is friendly, gentle, and experienced, which allows us to help even our youngest patients learn to feel comfortable going to the dentist.
Here is what you can do to prepare your child for their first trip to the dentist.
Talk About It
Talk to your child about the upcoming visit. Discuss what the dentist and team will do during the appointment. It is important to avoid words that may scare your child, like shot, needle, drill, etc. Focus the conversation on the dentist and the team. Remember to tell your child that they are friendly and ready to help your child take care of their teeth.
You can read books about the dentist to help your child know what to expect and make them feel more comfortable. You can also try playing “dentist” and show your child what will happen during the appointment. Have fun with it!
Also, it is helpful to remind your child of the visit in the days leading up to the appointment. This allows them time to process and prepare.
During the Visit
During your child’s first visit you will be able to accompany them to the treatment area. While you are always welcome to join your child during subsequent visits, we have found that allowing patients to go to the treatment area without a parent helps them establish a better rapport with the dentist. Also, it makes them more comfortable and less apprehensive.
Why See a Pediatric Dentist?
Pediatric dentists spend several years after finishing their regular dental training learning the ins and outs of working with children. Also, they can provide not only primary care but specialty oral care for children from infancy through adolescence. They also receive additional training to make them better suited to caring for children with special needs.
Our team loves caring for children and wants to make sure that your child has a great experience!
