“You got bright white teeth so take care of them, brush in the morning, and the night, and again and again. So put the toothpaste on your favorite brush. Be sure to take your time, don’t ever rush!”
Your first dental visit can be scary—especially for infants, toddlers, and preschool aged children—with loud noises and new faces. But even little kids need to take care of their teeth.
When do you start dental care?
The American Dental Association recommends, and Beautiful Smiles Family Dental Center agrees, that your child should see a dentist for his or her first dental visit within six months of the eruption of the first tooth, or before his or her first birthday.
At Beautiful Smiles Family Dental Center, your child will never outgrow us—from first tooth to first grade and beyond. Before you assume your child’s dental visit will result in a full-blown tantrum, remember, he or she isn’t afraid of the dentist yet. Here’s what to expect at the first appointment:
- This visit will be short and informal. We provide families with comfort-conscious dental care.
- One of our dentists will check for decay, and look at your child’s gums, jaw, and bite while he or she sits in your lap. If your child has teeth, we may also clean them.
- You’ll learn how to care for your child’s developing teeth and gums. Bring your questions for us on teething, thumb sucking, tooth-friendly foods, and more.
- You’ll schedule your child’s next visit.
- If your child needs specialty dental work, we offer many types of dental care in-house.
Prepare your child for his or her dentist visit with these tips:
- Brush twice a day. Brush your child’s teeth as soon as they erupt. Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on a soft, kid-sized brush.
- Floss daily. Start flossing when your child has two teeth sitting next to each other. Usually, children under five will need your help.
- Be a good role model. Show your kid how to brush and floss as part of your daily routine.
- Read up. Pick out a book or YouTube video about visiting the dentist that you and your child can read or watch together.
- Play pretend. Before the first dentist appointment, play dentist with your kid. Practice opening wide and counting teeth.
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At Beautiful Smiles Family Dental Center in Etters, Pennsylvania, Dr. Graver and Dr. Koop offer many techniques to keep your child’s smile beautiful! We are always concerned about your comfort. Please call us if you have any questions about how our services may benefit you or someone you know.
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