Raising a child is just like a roller coaster ride – it can be anxiety-inducing, yet fun! Taking your little one to the dentist for the first time is a big, but important step, and can also feel like a bit of a wild ride. Here at GoKids Pediatric Dentistry, we’re here to help take the anxiety away. Maintaining the oral health of your child is the ultimate key to their overall health. Read on for some helpful tips!
Here at GoKids, and in line with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), we recommend that a child visit the dentist by the age of one, or within six months of the first tooth’s eruption – whichever comes first. At this first visit, the pediatric dentist will thoroughly examine the incoming teeth and other oral growth aspects of your child. We also discuss different oral hygiene techniques specific for your child’s age. This may seem too early, but it is the most effective prevention to keep your child’s oral and overall health on track. Problems like tooth decay can start even before they get all their baby teeth. Prevention is always better than cure!
What to expect during your kid’s first dental appointment at GoKids Pediatric Dentistry?
The first visit is based on your child’s comfort level and needs. If your child is under the age of 2-3, we will typically start off with a lap exam. (Link to separate blog post and video on lap examination). We know not every child cooperates for tooth brushing at the dentist. No worries, we have tons of tricks up our sleeves to make the visit quick and painless for you and your child!
With some of our older kiddos, we may recommend an x-ray to help us gather more information. X-rays help us better determine what is going on below the surface. To keep the exposure minimal, we only take them as needed at a young age. If you have an older child, we may even do a digital 3D scan to help us effectively guide the growth of your child’s teeth and jaws and determine if early-intervention orthodontics may be needed.
After the exam, we will address any issues or concerns raised based on the exam, as well as discuss any habits and routines recommended depending on your child’s age and needs. And most importantly, address any questions you have about your child. Anything from “what is that bump?” to “what toothpaste should we use?” are welcome! This is a friendly environment to have all oral health related questions answered. We pride ourselves in providing a safe space for any questions and discussions that come up about your child’s health.
At the end of the visit, all of our patients get to pick out a fun prize! And we will schedule another appointment 6 months in the future to maintain a good relationship with your child and keep a close eye on their oral health.
