How should you prepare your child for their first dental visit?

The first dental visit of your child is focused on learning about their oral health and the best way to take care of the child’s individual dental needs. You should establish a working relationship with your dentist and develop a certain level of trust. Ask as many questions as you want during your dentist’s visit.

The best way to prepare your child for their first dental visit is to manage their expectations. You should consider what you want to know, what you are looking for, and what you should expect. You should be prepared to ask about any of your concerns. Look for a dental office that is

• friendly to the parent and to the child
• knowledgeable about the oral health of young children, their growth, and their development
• responsive
• gentle and kind to your child even when they fuss while the dentist of hygienist checks your child’s mouth
• focused on your child’s needs
• specific about the recommendations for your child’s oral health
• shows you how you can help in taking care of your child’s oral health

The dental office should also provide you with

• information on how to get in contact with the dental office if ever there is an emergency
• specific recommendations on follow-up care
• information on the next steps in your child’s oral development
• helpful information on how to guard and promote your child’s oral health

Dentists and paediatricians refer to an ideal dental office as a dental home already. You must be prepared for your child’s fussing during oral examinations and toothbrush demonstrations. Sometimes, parents are surprised on how often infants are passive and cooperative during their dental visits.

It would be great if another adult could accompany you when you visit the dentist. It would be even better if this other adult shares responsibility for the child. Since you want to be free and you want to talk comfortably with your dentist during the first visit, you should not bring along other children for the time being. You can bring an extra diaper, a snack, and a favourite toy for your child. You may also want to bring a blanket that will make your child feel safe.

In order to save time and make your first visit easy, you should ask the dental office to mail you all the office forms that have to be filled out. These forms can give you the chance to list all your questions and concerns for your visit.

• What happens on your child's dental visit after their first birthday?
• How should you choose a dentist for your child?
• How should you prepare your child for their first dental visit?
• What are some of the things that you should expect at the dental office?