Scheduling your child’s first dental visit can be an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. That’s why we have this guide to your child’s first dental visit. You may have a lot of questions and wonder what the dentist can possibly do when your child is so little.
However, most dentists recommend that children visit the dentist by the time they are one, or within six months after their first tooth comes in. While this may seem early, it’s the perfect time to get your child’s dental health on the right track. Below you will find information on the importance of getting your child to the dentist, what will happen at the first visit, and how you can help prepare your child for their first visit.
The Importance of Pediatric Dentistry
Dental health not only impacts our oral health, but our overall health as well. Poor dental health has been proven to be linked to issues such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and even dementia. Research has proven that children who have poor dental health as kids will lead to poor dental health as an adult. This means they will likely suffer from issues such as cavities, gum disease, and even the potential for tooth loss and infection. However, the opposite is true as well in the sense that those who have good oral health as children will likely have good oral health in their adult years. Ensuring that your child gets to their first visit on time and continues to get regular checkups can do wonders for your child’s short and long-term oral health outcomes.
Guide to Your Child’s First Dental Visit
The first visit your child has will likely include very little treatment. It is mostly an appointment to:
- Check out your child’s teeth and gums
- Discuss an age-appropriate oral care routine with you
- Get your child familiarized with the dentist’s office
Depending on the dentist, they may want you to be a part of the appointment, and others may ask you to stay in the waiting area. During the initial oral exam, the dentist will:
- Examine your child’s existing teeth
- Look at their bite
- Identify any issues with their teeth and gums
- Clean any teeth they may have
The dentist will also have a variety of topics to discuss with you after the examination. For example, they will want to know of any developmental milestones your child has hit, their teething habits, and their oral habits, such as thumb sucking. They may also discuss your child’s nutrition, fluoride needs, and good oral hygiene practices for your child. Lastly, you’ll want to schedule your next checkup. It is recommended that children see the dentist at least every six months. This is for both oral health reasons and to get your child comfortable with the dentist.
Preparing Your Child for the Dentist
Preparing your child for the dentist is vital in order for them to feel comfortable. This may differ depending on their age. However, focusing on positivity, sharing why it’s important to visit the dentist, and how it can impact their health. Finding a pediatric dentist that is experienced in early child dentistry is important as they will understand the complexities of a child’s first few dental visits. Scheduling a visit with the top pediatric dentist in Hollywood can calm your nerves and allow you to feel comfortable sending your child to the dentist.
Best Dentist Hollywood
If you need to schedule your child’s first dental visit, contact Dr. Rhonda at Glo Modern Dentistry. Dr. Rhonda is one of the most trusted and highly respected dentists in the area. She has been trained at one of the nation’s top universities, UCLA. The team at Glo Modern Dentistry are skilled in pediatric dentistry and is happy to welcome you and your child into their office. If you need to schedule your child’s first visit, choose the best dentist in Hollywood and schedule an appointment with Dr. Rhonda at Glo Modern Dentistry.