Getting Ready for Your Child's First Trip to the Dentist

Posted on: 30 June 2018

A child's first trip to the dentist can be a stressful time for their parents. There's not really a set age when your child should see the dentist for the first time, but whenever their teeth start to appear, you should go and make sure everything is as it should be. If there's no sign of teeth by the child's first birthday, visit the dentist anyway.

This marks a big milestone on your child's path to growing up, and it's one that can be a bit of a worry for parents. As long as you're prepared, everything will go smoothly, so follow these tips and get ready for your child's first dentist appointment.

Practice at home

Before your child's first tooth even appears, you can start getting them used to have their mouth inspected. Get them to open wide so you can take a look, and make it a fun, relaxed experience.

By the time you come to actually visit the dentist, your child will already be used to the routine, and it won't seem as strange or frightening for them.

Choose the right dentist

Although all dentists can look at children's teeth and spot problems, it's a good idea to look for a family dentist will paediatric expertise. Not only will they be particularly knowledgeable on the unique issues surrounding new milk teeth, but they'll also have various ways of making the appointment more child-friendly.

Teach your child about teeth

Children are interested in learning all sorts of new things, and you can use this to get them more into dental care.

Take the time to educate them about what teeth are for and how they grow, and instil a sense of how important it is to look after them. There are also plenty of children's books about teeth that your child might find interesting.

Bring your questions and important information

As a parent, you probably have a few questions you'd like to ask the dentist about your child's development. You may also have some things you'd like to bring up, like anything you've noticed that's concerning you. It can be helpful to write them down if there are a few things and you might forget some of them.

You should also be ready to tell the dentist about any medical conditions your child has, or if they're taking medication.

Stay calm

Above all else, try not to worry. Children easily pick up on anxiety from their parents, and it can make the appointment more challenging. By keeping calm, you help make the experience a positive one for your child, helping reduce the risk of anxiety later in life.

Share