{"id":410,"date":"2022-09-03T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-09-03T06:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.dentist-tappan.com\/blog\/?p=410"},"modified":"2022-11-08T08:29:05","modified_gmt":"2022-11-08T08:29:05","slug":"what-you-need-to-know-about-your-childs-first-dental-visit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.dentist-tappan.com\/blog\/2022\/09\/03\/what-you-need-to-know-about-your-childs-first-dental-visit\/","title":{"rendered":"What You Need to Know About Your Child\u2019s First Dental Visit"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Your smile is one of the first things that people will notice about you\u2014and the same goes for your child\u2019s smile! That said, you should do everything you can to ensure that your little one is set up for a lifetime of excellent oral health, and this starts with their very first dental visit! But you might not know how to prepare or what to expect upon arriving for this crucial exam. Here\u2019s everything your child’s dentist<\/a> wants you to know.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Preparing for the Visit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your child\u2019s first dental visit should take place after their first tooth appears, but no later than their first birthday. This might seem like an odd window, but there\u2019s a simple reason for this\u2014as soon as your child has teeth, they\u2019re capable of getting cavities! That said, it\u2019s best to be proactive about their oral health from very early on, as it can help to set their smile up for a successful future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can begin preparing your child for their checkup by talking to them about what\u2019s going to happen in a positive and encouraging manner. Have your child practice opening their mouth to get them ready for when the dentist has to check their teeth. You might also consider reading books or watching videos with them about first dental visits to help them feel less fearful and more confident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What to Expect During the Visit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When you show up for your child\u2019s visit, the dentist will examine them to make sure their jaw and teeth are developing without issue. During the visit, you\u2019ll be seated next to your child (or with your child in your lap) and you\u2019ll also have the opportunity to ask questions or voice concerns about your child\u2019s teeth. Your child\u2019s dentist will continue by checking for mouth injuries, cavities, or other issues. Once that part of the exam is over, the dentist will clean your child\u2019s teeth and provide some tips for daily oral care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s also important to note that your child might cry out a little or feel uncomfortable during the exam, but you don\u2019t need to worry. This is normal, and your child\u2019s dentist and their team understand that this is a new experience for your child; on that note, they\u2019ll be quite gentle and friendly!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Helpful Tips for a Great Visit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Here are some tips to help ensure a smooth visit for both you and your child:<\/p>\n\n\n\n