Dentists – What to Expect at Your Child’s First Visit

Going to the dentists is unnerving enough for adults. Try looking at the visit through a child’s eyes for a moment. Those bright lights, the loud noises of the instruments and the lack of a safety net, the whole thing can be pretty scary. The first appointment is very important in it gives you a chance to ensure there are no tooth or gum problems and give your child the ability to learn that this type of doctor is no worse than going to his pediatrician.

When you take your child to the dentists for the first time don’t expect there to be a whole lot going on. Most of these doctors want to get to know you child, and let them get comfortable being in this type of environment. This non-threatening method of acquainting the child with this type of physician will make subsequent trips easier. At times during the appointment you may be asked to leave the room to allow the child to be more comfortable with the dentist. There might be other times that the physician might ask you to hold your child while sitting in the chair. This is also a method they use to help your child feel at ease.

While doing your child’s exam the dentists will check for any indications of decay. He’ll also examine your child’s bit. Any problems with your child’s gums, teeth, jaw or other oral problems will be checked and documented. The hygienist may clean his teeth if told to do so by the doctor. While this is not a standard routine on your child’s first visit it is something that your doctor may want to do. Cleaning the teeth will help him to determine if there is any additional need for fluoride.
By the end of this short exam your child’s dentists will take the time to help instruct you and your child on any oral health care issues he’s seen. He should take the time to answer any questions that you may have. If he hasn’t discussed oral health care basics feel free to ask him if he thinks what you and your child have been doing to maintain his healthy smile is working. The doctor can also help you in addressing habits such as lip sucking, thumb sucking or tongue thrusting. The physician can give you an idea of upcoming milestones to be on the lookout for as well as what type of nutrition is best to maintain that healthy smile.

Your child’s dentists will want to see him back within six months as with any patient. The better you keep these appointments the easier your child will see there is nothing to be afraid of by going to the oral health care professional. Before you leave the doctor’s office be sure to schedule your child’s next appointment so he knows he’ll be coming back. Taking the time to introduce you child to the doctor in this non-threatening manner can help ease the anxiety he had about going and possibly make it easier for him to go in the future.