Has your child been to the dentist yet? If not, their first visit can sometimes be nerve-racking and scary. There’s no need to worry! We have tips and helpful tricks that you as a parent can use to make your son or daughter’s first dental visit the best experience possible. Your pediatric dentist in Farmers Branch explains the secrets to making your children feel relaxed, familiar, and even happy going into their first dentist’s appointment.
When Should My Child See a Dentist for The First Time?
Some dentists and parents may have varying opinions, but your child’s first dental appointment should happen sooner rather than later to screen for possible health issues. Their first visit should take place by their first birthday, or 6 months after their first tooth is visible—whichever one comes sooner.
Risks of decay, disease, and discoloration start as soon as the first tooth emerges from the gumline. Therefore, it’s imperative to get your kids into see a dentist as soon as they have visible teeth. You want to catch signs of cavities and other issues before they happen.
What Can I Do to Help My Child with Their First Visit?
As a parent, there are a few things you can do to make your child’s first dental visit as easy and enjoyable as possible:
- Take them to one of your own dental visits: You can expose them to dental offices before they have their own appointment to familiarize your kids with a new environment.
- Help them practice good oral health: If your child’s mouth is healthy, there won’t be many negatives for the dentist to talk to them about. Compliments and congratulations for healthy gums and teeth makes your kids more likely to enjoy their visit and want to come back. Brush your teeth with your loved ones. They love to mimic you, so make sure you’re instilling healthy oral hygiene habits.
- Watch the way you talk: Your son or daughter won’t know that some people are afraid of the dentist until you tell them. When describing the dentist, only use positive adjectives and stress that it’s a fun place to make sure your mouth is healthy.
- Choose the right dentist: When looking for a dental practice for your son or daughter, consider that pediatric dentists have completed years of extra schooling to specialize in children’s dentistry that others have not.
What Should I Expect from The First Dental Visit?
Pediatric dentists and their offices alike are usually fun. Your children’s dentist should be charismatic and funny—this can really make your kids feel at home. Some offices even have movies and video games to keep your son or daughter distracted during any dental treatments.
Your first visit typically won’t involve any procedures. Your children’s dentist in Farmers Branch will conduct a simple oral examination to see where their teeth are at in the growing process and if there’s any dental issues that need to be addressed. Dental problems that are caught while they’re small can prevent more extensive treatment and cost down the road.
Is your son or daughter’s first birthday or first tooth right around the corner? Schedule their dentist’s appointment today to start their bright and shining future with a beautiful smile.
About The Practice
Rio Dental & Orthodontics has 7 doctors on hand. Both Dr. Russell Choy and Dr. Bhaumik are board certified pediatric dentists. They are ready to meet your children and make their first visit as easy and fun as possible! They pride themselves on their ability to connect with kids to make them feel comfortable in a new environment (the movie theatre and video games help too). Contact the dentists with any questions or comments by phone at (972) 746-2533.
