Come See Us by Age 1
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child’s first dental appointment should be scheduled six months after the eruption of their first tooth or by the child’s first birthday. At our office, the first visit is very important. We will use this appointment to get you acquainted with our office and discuss with you recommendations for your child’s future dental care. We will continue to see your child every six months for routine care. It is important to identify a dental home for your child. This provides you with a familiar place to go should your child have a dental emergency and allows us to monitor your child as they grow and develop.
What to Expect at the First Appointment
At the first appointment, we invite parents to accompany their child to help them feel comfortable. This visit is an opportunity for both you and your child to meet our staff, explore the office, and learn how our team works together. We’ll also address any questions or concerns you may have. For future appointments, we encourage children to go through the visit with a staff member independently, allowing us to build a strong bond and establish a trusting relationship.
During the first appointment, the dentist will perform an exam, counting your child’s teeth and checking their gums and oral tissues. Their teeth will be polished and flossed, and if needed, x-rays will be taken. We’ll also review proper brushing and flossing techniques to promote good oral hygiene at home.
Preparing Your Child
Preparing your child for their first dental appointment can help ensure a positive and successful experience. At Pediatric Dentistry of Lebanon, we strive to make every visit pleasant, and a little preparation can go a long way. The most important thing you can do is speak positively about going to the dentist. Even if dental visits aren’t your favorite, it’s best not to share those feelings with your child.
In our office, we use child-friendly language to create a comforting atmosphere. For example, we don’t use words like “shot,” “needle,” “drill,” “pain,” or “hurt.” Instead, we talk about “making teeth sleepy with sleepy bubbles” and “washing away sugar bugs.” Our goal is to minimize discomfort and help your child feel at ease throughout their visit.