A first visit to the dentist

firstvisit

As a parent, it can be hard to know when to take your child to the dentist for the first time. And are baby teeth that important anyway? The resounding answer is YES!

The Fresh Dentistry team recommends your child’s first appointment with the Dentist or Oral Health Therapist should be between their second and third birthdays.

It’s a great idea to include your child’s first visit with your own appointment to help them relax and see that there is no need to be afraid; if they see you having your teeth examined first they are often more comfortable when it is their turn.

 

 

 

Here are some tips:

  • Talk to your child about what the dentist will do at the visit
    • the dentist will want to count your teeth
    • the dentist will look inside your mouth
  • Avoid negative language and words such as needles or the need to be brave
  • Talk to your child about how you often visit your dentist
  • Speak positively about your own dental experiences
  • Borrow a book from the library about visiting the dentist – many of your child’s favourite characters like Maisy and Peppa Pig visit the dentist too!
    So, what should you expect from your child’s first visit to the dentist?

  • Your child should experience a positive and fun visit
  • You and your child should be made to feel comfortable
  • Your child should receive a gentle yet thorough examination
  • The latest technologies and techniques should be used
  • Your child should be shown how to brush their teeth thoroughly
  • You and your child should be educated on preventative dental care

At Fresh Dentistry, we specialise in treating children and know how to best manage any fears or anxieties a child may have. We use child-friendly terms and simple explanations to describe dental instruments and procedures to avoid any negative feelings towards dentistry.

The friendly atmosphere within our practice ensures children of all ages are quickly put at ease.

If your child is aged between two and three and hasn’t visited a dentist yet, please don’t delay in making an appointment. Your early commitment to your child’s dental health will lead to a smile that should last a lifetime.