Your child’s first visit to the dentist is an exciting milestone—and arguably the most important step in setting them up for a lifetime of happy, healthy smiling. However, for many parents, it’s natural to wonder what will happen during their first appointment and how they can help their child feel prepared for it. Rest assured, your child’s dentist will also have these things in mind! Here’s a brief look at what this visit entails and what you and your little one can expect.
1. Meeting the Dentist & Team
Pediatric dental offices are designed with children in mind, meaning you can usually expect colorful décor, friendly team members (who are often parents themselves), and kid-friendly oral hygiene products. When you arrive, you and your child will be warmly welcomed and given the chance to get familiar with the office. For many children, knowing what things look and sound like before the actual dental work begins can reduce their anxiety.
2. A Simple Dental Examination
During their first visit, your child’s dentist will perform a gentle examination of their teeth, gums, and jaw. This ensures that their teeth are developing correctly and that there are no early signs of cavities, gum disease, or other concerns. The exam itself is usually very quick and comfortable, and in most cases, your little one will be able to sit in your lap as it’s being conducted. Sometimes, dental X-rays may also be needed as an added measure to ensure there are no hidden problems.
3. A Gentle Dental Cleaning (When Appropriate)
If your child is comfortable (and has enough teeth), their dentist may recommend a light cleaning to remove plaque. However, this cleaning also serves as a friendly introduction to dental care for your child—and rest assured, it won’t be nearly as involved or intense as a cleaning that you’d undergo yourself. The team will always ensure that your child is calm and comfortable and will work at a slower pace if needed to ensure the experience remains positive.
4. Parental Guidance & Advice
Children’s smiles are much different than adults—and you’ll probably have questions about how to keep things on track while at home. Your child’s dentist is a valuable resource, and they’ll be more than willing to share everything you need to know about children’s oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing habits, dietary suggestions, and even a preview of what future treatments might entail.
Ideally, your child should see their dentist by the time their first tooth arrives—but in any case, it’s better late than never! However, knowing what to expect is certain to make things easier and more positive for both of you.
About the Author
Dr. Myles Clancy received his DMD at the acclaimed Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston and is a proud Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Under his talented leadership, our team is able to offer a wide range of pediatric dental services for children of all ages, from infants and toddlers to younger children and teens. If you have any questions or you need to schedule an appointment at our Worcester office for your child, you can call or visit us online for more information. Telephone: (508) 506-8859.