Your first trip to the dentist can be an exciting and frightening experience (depending on the movies you’ve watched!), and one that may even define a lifetime of dental care.
We understand that first trips to the dentist can be daunting for kids and their parents alike. That’s why we created this article as a comprehensive guide to first dental visits.
We will cover topics ranging from what you should expect when taking your child to the dentist, tips on how to prepare them mentally and emotionally, and helpful advice on maintaining healthy dental habits.
When To Book Your Child’s First Dental Appointment
Most first-time dental visits are scheduled around age three or four, though it is recommended that you take your child in for checkups as soon as possible after their first tooth appears.
During these initial checkup appointments, our dentists focus on a thorough examination of your child’s teeth and gums. They will check for any signs of cavities, decay, or other dental issues that need attention.
The trained dental team at Dakabin Dental understand that some children may not be so keen on their first trip to the dentist. We have a very welcoming approach for children visiting for the first time and endeavour to make them feel as comfortable and safe as possible.
How to Prepare Your Child for Their First Dental Visit
It is important to prepare your child mentally before the first visit. Let them know that going to the dentist is an important part of keeping their teeth healthy and strong. Explain to them that they can expect gentle brushing and counting of their teeth.
Additionally, make sure you let them know that our dentists are here to help keep their mouths clean and healthy – not to hurt them in any way! We love seeing big happy smiles on our younger patients and we want to keep it that way.
What You Can Do At Home to Prepare Your Children for the Dentist
To ensure a successful first trip to the dentist, we recommend establishing good oral hygiene habits at home first.
Here are a few minor habits you can do at home before bringing your kids to the dentist for the first time:
- Ensure children brush twice daily for two minutes each
- Encourage kids to eat healthy foods.
If you can make dental care a part of your child’s routine at home first, they will be more comfortable visiting the dentist.
Book With Dakabin
At our office, we strive to make first dental trips as stress-free as possible! We provide a fun and welcoming atmosphere that will put both you and your kids at ease. Our dentists are highly experienced in working with children and understand the unique needs of their patients.
Unfortunately, some children have weak teeth and gums and are prone to tooth decay. Dakabin Dental offers complete smile makeovers for both adults and children. Hopefully, with the right dental care and maintenance from a young age, together we can avoid this in your child’s future!
If you have any further questions or would like to schedule an appointment please contact us or book online today.
