Preparing for Your Child’s First Dental Visit

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), infants should have their first dental visit around their first birthday. First visits can be stressful for both parents and children, particularly if the parents have dental anxieties themselves. It is important for parents to communicate positive messages about dental visits and help the child feel comfortable and happy.

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How to Prepare for the First Visit

Pediatric dentists are trained in child psychology and work in colorful, child-friendly offices with games, toys, and educational tools to make visits enjoyable. Parents can take several steps to ensure a smooth first visit:

  • Take another adult along: An extra adult can help soothe the infant while the parent asks questions and receives advice.
  • Leave other children at home: Minimizes distractions and helps the infant feel more comfortable.
  • Avoid threatening language: Use positive terms and avoid words like “drills,” “needles,” or “injections.”
  • Provide positive explanations: Explain that the dentist “helps keep teeth healthy” rather than focusing on potential problems.
  • Explain what will happen: Age-appropriate books can help prepare the child, such as:
    • The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist – Stan and Jan Berenstain
    • Show Me Your Smile: A Visit to the Dentist – “Dora the Explorer” Series
    • Going to the Dentist – Anne Civardi
    • Elmo Visits the Dentist – “Sesame Street” Series

What to Expect During the First Visit

The first dental visit aims to introduce the child to the dentist, evaluate tooth and jaw development, check oral health, and provide guidance to parents. A typical “well-baby checkup” includes:

  • Greeting from dental staff and review of family/infant health history.
  • Pediatric dentist addresses parental questions and concerns.
  • Discussion of the child’s oral habits, pacifier use, tooth alignment, diet, and development.
  • Advice on oral care, fluoride intake, sippy cup use, and injury prevention.
  • Examination of the infant’s teeth – typically with the infant seated in the dentist’s lap facing the parent for comfort.
  • Demonstration of proper brushing and flossing techniques.
  • Review of the child’s oral health and recommendations regarding oral habits, appropriate toothpaste and toothbrushes, orthodontic pacifiers, and diet.
  • Information on which teeth may appear next and scheduling of future appointments.

If you have questions or concerns about your child’s first dental visit, please contact our office.