The Dentist: Pleasant Childhood Visits

Some dentists and hygienists suggest that a baby should schedule a primary visit when the first tooth emerges while others suggest visiting sometime before the first birthday; however, many insurance policies do not begin to cover preventative dental care until a child is three or even older making those American Dental Association (ADA) guidelines hard to follow.

The idea that a child should have his/her first visit to the dentist at such an early age is most likely to ease the patient’s anxiety and is mostly proposed in order that a child’s first appointment is one of orientation. Just as an infant is to see the pediatrician several times during infancy and toddlerhood for “well child” appointments, a child should see a dental professional or hygienist not only to acclimate to the environment but also as a source of education and preventative care. In short, if it can be avoided, the first appointment should not be attributed to urgency. A first time trip that results in an extraction is not helpful in promoting the dentist as an ally.

If insurance does not allow a preventative care visit in infancy or early toddlerhood, a parent might consider researching and choosing a pediatric provider and inquire about scheduling a field trip to the office. Many practices, especially those dedicated to pediatrics, will gladly oblige the idea, as it is certain to curb the child’s anxiety. If the child has older siblings, perhaps accompanying big brother or sister to an appointment is a good idea. The ADA also promotes National Children’s Dental Health Month each February; local schools and pre-schools will participate in the event hosting a local office on campus, and resources and educational materials are readily available from the ADA to help parents and teachers to help children get excited about good oral hygiene.

A good pediatrician will do a minimal oral exam during routine visits in an attempt to prepare the child for official oral exams, and the doctor will usually have a network of local dentists that he/she can suggest based on what he/she knows about the child’s demeanor.
Lastly, introducing and maintaining an oral hygiene routine including gum, tooth, and mouth care from infancy will help a child transition into “big kid” appointments and promote good dental habits for life. And, good dental habits generally lead to pleasant visits to the dentist.