Your Child’s First Dental Appointment

Your child should see our dentist at least every 6 months for their routine teeth cleaning and oral examination. That way, we’ll be able to catch oral health issues (like cavities) in their early stages. Seeing our dentist at an early age will also help your child avoid dental anxiety later in life.

Here’s why your child’s first dental visit is so important. We’ll also explain how to prepare your child for their first visit with our dentist so you know what to expect.

TAKE YOUR CHILD TO THE DENTIST AROUND AGE 1

As soon as your child’s first tooth comes in – around age one –is typically the time you should start taking them to our family dentist. If you decide to put off their appointment, it is likely that their oral health will suffer. In fact, 25% of children have at least one cavity by the time they turn four!

Taking your child to their first dentist appointment at an early age will create good habits. It’ll also ensure they have healthy teeth and gums so they can chew and speak comfortably.

Learn More: Benefits of Regular Dental Visits >>

PREPARE YOUR CHILD FOR THEIR FIRST DENTAL VISIT

You want to make sure your child feels as comfortable and safe as possible. The best way to do this is to remain calm yourself and avoid using any words that may frighten your child.

It’s important that you set an example for your child and act relaxed and even excited about going to the dentist. They will pick up on your positive outlook of the dentist and probably react in a similar way.

KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR CHILD’S FIRST VISIT

The first appointment shouldn’t be too elaborate. Rather the focus is more on introducing your child to what the dentist is all about. Our dentist will discuss the importance of oral hygiene to your child in hopes of creating good dental habits.

Our dentist wants to help your child build a strong foundation for oral health. He does this by talking to your child about their oral health in a way they understand. Our entire team also goes above and beyond to make sure your child always feels comfortable and safe.

If you and our dentist both feel that your child is comfortable and ready, Dr. Taylor will do an oral exam and possibly take X-rays.

Many children fear the dentist because of a bad first visit. The first dental visit will have a huge impact on how your child feels about the dentist, so it’s important to be prepared and take the necessary steps to have a successful first appointment.

By following the advice above, you’ll be on your way to having a stress-free first dentist appointment with your child.

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT WITH DR. TAYLOR

Our family dentist in Waterford, MI, accepts patients of all ages and can help your child build a strong foundation for oral health. To request an appointment for your child, call Dr. Taylor’s Family Dental Center at (248) 681-8100. We hope to hear from you soon!