Starting a regular schedule of childhood dental visits from a young age doesn’t just help prevent cavities and encourage good brushing habits. It lays the groundwork for a positive relationship with your child’s dentist that could last well into their adult years.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry guidelines advise parents to make an initial appointment with a pediatric dentist within six months of the first tooth’s appearance, or before a child’s first birthday.
“If we see children early and often, we can prevent most problems, or make sure we’re treating problems in the most minimally invasive way,” said Dr. Sahar Edalatpour, a dentist in the First Choice Dental group.
During an initial intake appointment, the dental team will perform a thorough examination of the child’s teeth and gums, do a cleaning and, if warranted, paint on a fluoride application.
“We ask questions about home care and assess cavity risk,” Dr. Edalatpour said. “In addition, we provide anticipatory guidance and educational counseling on topics such as brushing and cleaning techniques for infants, diet and bottles/sippy cups, fluoride use, pacifier/thumb-sucking habits, injury prevention and teething care.”
Most childhood dental checkups usually take around 45 minutes depending on how cooperative the child is, length of discussions and any additional care needed. Routine X-rays don’t usually begin until age 4, but may be performed earlier in cases of trauma or concern. Important items to bring along to the first appointment include the child’s full medical history including a list of medications and allergies, insurance information (preventive dental procedures are often covered) and perhaps a comforting item like a favorite toy or blanket.
Treating early appointments as a way to get kids comfortable with going to the dentist may remove some of the fear and anxiety that surrounds the experience later in life. Pediatric dental staff work hard to build trust with the families they serve, and they make visits fun through positive reinforcement.
“We have great prizes that we offer at the end of the appointment,” Dr. Edalatpour said. “Each child is different, and it’s important for the dental team to find the keys to making visits enjoyable.”
Watch to learn how dental teams help keep teeth clean, healthy and strong.
Parents can also make trips to the dentist’s office more comfortable for their kids by talking to them ahead of time about what’s going to happen in a calm way, assuring them the dentist will treat them kindly, and touting all the “cool” chairs, lights, equipment, masks and glasses they’ll get to see.
After the initial assessment, the dentist will recommend a schedule for regular follow-up visits, usually every six months.
“The dentist and dental team should always be communicating to the parents and child about what’s next,” Dr. Edalatpour said. “Active communication and education are paramount.”
To make an appointment or for more information about First Choice Dental, go to firstchoicedental.com.
