Taking your child to a dentist at an early age can prove beneficial in the long run. Experts would recommend bringing your child to a dental visit during the first 6 months of the first tooth erupting. The sooner your child gets regular dental checkups, the better it is. These early dental visits will prevent cavities, tooth decay, and improves the over health in their mouth. In some cases, early dental treatments can be done to ensure that they grow up with teeth that can last them a lifetime. Children with healthy teeth can chew easily, smile with confidence, and speak clearly. Below is a guide on how you can prepare your child’s first dental visit.
Preparing for their First Dental Visit
The most important dental visit for a child is the first visit. They will often carry their first dental experience through adulthood, and it can be quite challenging to change their mindset later. When preparing your child’s first dental visit, parents can consider mimicking a dental appointment at home. By using a toothbrush and showing what a dentist will do on them during a visit, it will allow the child to get used to these practices before showing up at a clinic. This will increase the potential of reducing discomfort during a dental visit.
Explain the Procedure
Children at a young age are smart, inquisitive, and learns things quickly. Provide an explanation for the dental procedures and let them understand the benefits of going to a dentist in a fun and meaningful way. For instance, you can tell them that the dentist will clean all their teeth, so they can continue having candy and delicacies.
Practice Good Dental Habits
Brushing and flossing are good dental practices that can be introduced to your child at home. By constantly implementing the habit of cleaning their teeth from young, it will increase the chances of them feeling comfortable when visiting the dentist.
Choosing the Right Dental Clinic for their First Dental Visit
Sending your child’s first dental visit to an adult clinic might not be the best idea due to the adult environment. It is highly recommended to visit a clinic that is child-friendly or a pediatric dental clinic that has dentists who are accustomed to handling children of any age. They are typically experienced in handling a child’s first dental visit. With the right words and encouragement, the dentist can ensure that your child is comfortable and relaxed during an appointment.
In some pediatric dental clinics, dedicated game areas are constructed for children to play in, before and after a dental appointment. There are TVs being fitted in the dental rooms as well to keep children distracted while the dentist work on their teeth.
The Benefits of Early Childhood Dental Visits
Tooth decay is the most common type of chronic disease in children across the country. By visiting a dentist at an early age, it can help maintain a child’s daily hygiene regularly. The dentist will not only treat your child’s teeth but also provide important information such as how to prevent decays, drinking from a cup, and how to brush their young teeth. If you are looking to have your child’s first dental visit with us, be sure to schedule a dental appointment today!