Preparing Your Child for Their First Dental Visit

Making your child's first dental visit a positive experience sets the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health. Here's how to prepare for this important milestone.

When to Schedule the First Visit

The Australian Dental Association recommends scheduling your child's first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears, whichever comes first.

Early visits help:

• Establish good oral health habits early
• Monitor proper tooth development
• Prevent early childhood tooth decay
• Build a positive relationship with the dentist

How to Prepare Your Child

Talk Positively About the Visit

Use positive language when discussing the dentist. Avoid words that might create anxiety like "pain," "hurt," or "shot." Instead, focus on how the dentist helps keep teeth healthy and strong.

Read Books About Dental Visits

Many children's books feature characters visiting the dentist. Reading these together can help familiarize your child with what to expect.

Recommended activities:

• Role-play a dental visit at home
• Let them "examine" their stuffed animals' teeth
• Show them pictures of healthy smiles
• Explain how the dentist is a "tooth helper"

Choose the Right Time

Schedule the appointment when your child is typically well-rested and cooperative. Morning appointments often work best for young children.

What to Expect During the Visit

First Visit Goals

The first visit is usually short and focuses on making your child comfortable. We will:

• Gently examine your child's teeth and gums
• Check for proper jaw development
• Assess oral hygiene needs
• Discuss proper brushing and fluoride use
• Answer any questions you may have

Making the Experience Positive

Our child-friendly approach includes:

• Gentle introduction to dental tools and equipment
• Show, tell, do technique to explain procedures
• Positive reinforcement throughout the visit
• Comfort items welcome (favorite toy or blanket)

Building Good Habits Early

Daily Oral Care Routine

• Infants: Clean gums with a soft, damp cloth
• First teeth: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with water
• Age 2+: Small amount of fluoride toothpaste
• Age 6+: Child can begin brushing independently with supervision

Diet and Oral Health

Help protect your child's teeth by:

• Limiting sugary snacks and drinks
• Offering healthy alternatives like fruits and vegetables
• Avoiding putting babies to bed with bottles containing milk or juice
• Encouraging water instead of sugary beverages

Red Flags to Watch For

Contact us if you notice:

• White or brown spots on teeth
• Pain or sensitivity
• Bleeding gums
• Difficulty chewing
• Thumb sucking beyond age 4

Creating Positive Dental Experiences

After the Visit

• Praise your child for their cooperation
• Consider a small, non-sugary reward
• Schedule regular checkups every six months
• Continue positive discussions about dental health

Emergency Preparedness

Know what to do if dental emergencies occur:

• Knocked out tooth: Keep tooth moist and see dentist immediately
• Toothache: Rinse with warm water and call our office
• Chipped tooth: Save any pieces and contact us right away

Your Partner in Your Child's Oral Health

At Westbrook Family Dental, we understand that each child is unique. Our gentle, patient approach helps children feel comfortable and builds positive associations with dental care.

Ready to schedule your child's first visit? Contact our friendly team today. We're here to support you and your child on the journey to lifelong oral health.