My Child’s First Dental Visit

WHEN SHOULD I FIRST TAKE MY CHILD TO THE DENTIST?

Many parents wonder when they should take their children to the dentist. The Australian Dental Association recommends that the first visit is within 6 months of the eruption of the first baby tooth.

This can vary between 6 - 12 months for most children.

WHAT HAPPENS AT THE FIRST DENTAL VISIT?

This first visit is the most important to establish rapport between the dentist, child and the parent/carer. This is to introduce to them who the dentist is and what a dental surgery looks and feels like.

For very young children, they are often accompanied by their parent in the dental chair. Children get to have a fun ride in the chair. We count their teeth, check their gums and inside their mouth. We also start accessing for any orthodontic concerns, as well as habits like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting.

Parents/carers will often be given advice with oral hygiene and dietary habits.

WHAT SHOULD PARENT/CARER DO TO MAKE THE VISIT SUCCESSFUL?

The parent/carer must be very mindful of not passing on any preconceived notions of fear to their young children. Children are very clever to pick up their adult’s emotions.

Please avoid saying phrases like:

“This will not HURT”

“There’s nothing to be AFRAID of”

Use positive tone and phrases, to make it sound like an exciting adventure.

HOW OFTEN DO CHILDREN NEED TO BE SEEN?

We recommend most children to have regular six - monthly checks. Prevention is better than CURE!

The earlier we can recognise any dental issues starting, the earlier we can manage and prevent them from getting worse.

FINALLY,

The dentist’s role is to assist everyone with their oral health and establish a beautiful smile for LIFE!